Prepare key access
The current MARC build accepts OpenSSH Ed25519 private keys. RSA and other private-key types are not supported by this build.
The Mac account must already authorize the matching public key. Importing the private key into MARC only prepares the client side of the connection.
Save and select a key
Open Settings → Keychain → SSH Keys to manage saved keys. Select the appropriate saved key when configuring your Mac connection.
Verify the Mac separately
An SSH key authenticates your account. The Mac’s host-key fingerprint verifies which machine you are connecting to. Check it even when using key-based login.
If authentication fails
Check the short username, selected key, and the public key authorized on the Mac. If your key requires a passphrase, follow the prompts supported by your build. Never include a private key in a bug report.
Import a key into MARC
- Open Settings → Keychain → SSH Keys.
- Choose Add key and give it a recognizable name.
- Choose Import from Files and select the private key.
- If the key is encrypted, enter its passphrase.
- Save it, then select that key when adding or editing your Mac connection.
The private key and passphrase are stored in this iPhone’s Keychain. MARC lets you copy the public key, which is the part you authorize on the Mac.
Public key, private key, and passphrase
The public key belongs in the Mac account’s authorized keys. The private key stays with the client that signs in. Importing a key into MARC does not automatically authorize its public key on your Mac.
A key passphrase protects the private key itself. It is separate from your Mac account password.
Renaming or removing a saved key
Give keys names that help you choose the right one later. A key that is still used by a saved login cannot be removed until you change the login that uses it.
Removing a key from MARC does not remove its public key from your Mac’s authorized keys. Those are separate changes.