Linux Networking Cookbook

7.8. Changing a Passphrase

Problem

You want to change the passphrase on one of your private keys.

Solution

Use the -p switch with the ssh-keygen command:

	$ ssh-keygen -p -f ~/.ssh/id_dsa
	Enter old passphrase:
	Key has comment '/home/pinball/.ssh/id_dsa'
	Enter new passphrase (empty for no passphrase):
	Enter same passphrase again:
	Your identification has been saved with the new passphrase.

Discussion

Passphrases are not recoverable. If you lose a passphrase, your only option is to create a new key with a new passphrase.

See Also

• man1ssh-keygen