How can you configure an SSH config file to use a different private key for hosts matching *.dev.example.com but keep the default key for others?

hard📝 Application Q9 of 15

Linux CLI - SSH and Remote Access

How can you configure an SSH config file to use a different private key for hosts matching *.dev.example.com but keep the default key for others?

ASpecify IdentityFile only in the ssh command, not in config

BSet IdentityFile globally and override with User directive for dev hosts

CAdd a Host entry with pattern '*.dev.example.com' and IdentityFile directive

DUse multiple IdentityFile directives under Host *

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Use Host pattern for dev hosts
Create a Host entry with pattern '*.dev.example.com' to match dev hosts.
Step 2: Specify IdentityFile for dev hosts
Inside this Host entry, set IdentityFile to the dev key path.
Step 3: Default IdentityFile remains for other hosts
Other hosts use the global or Host * IdentityFile setting.
Final Answer:
Add a Host entry with pattern '*.dev.example.com' and IdentityFile directive -> Option C
Quick Check:
Use Host pattern to set IdentityFile per group [OK]

Quick Trick: Use Host pattern to assign keys per host group [OK]

Common Mistakes:

Master "SSH and Remote Access" in Linux CLI

9 interactive learning modes - each teaches the same concept differently

Want More Practice?

15+ quiz questions · All difficulty levels · Free

More Linux CLI Quizzes