What will be the output of the following command if the default key files already exist?

medium📝 Command Output Q13 of 15

Linux CLI - SSH and Remote Access

What will be the output of the following command if the default key files already exist?

ssh-keygen -t ed25519

AIt throws an error and exits immediately

BIt overwrites the existing key files without warning

CIt prompts to overwrite the existing files or choose a new name

DIt generates a new key with a random filename automatically

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Understand ssh-keygen behavior on existing files
When key files already exist, ssh-keygen asks the user if they want to overwrite or specify a new filename.
Step 2: Confirm it does not overwrite silently or error out
It does not overwrite without confirmation, nor does it throw an error or generate random filenames automatically.
Final Answer:
It prompts to overwrite the existing files or choose a new name -> Option C
Quick Check:
ssh-keygen asks before overwrite = A [OK]

Quick Trick: ssh-keygen asks before overwriting existing keys [OK]

Common Mistakes:

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