Introduction
Rapyd Cloud uses key-based authentication for all SFTP and SSH access. SSH keys are more secure than passwords and required for every site connection.
This guide explains how to create or import an SSH key pair and prepare it for use when connecting to your site.
Understanding SSH Keys
An SSH key pair consists of two linked files:
Public key: Stored on Rapyd Cloud’s servers and identifies your device.
Private key: Stored on your computer and used to unlock the connection.
When you connect via SFTP or SSH, Rapyd Cloud verifies that the private key on your device matches the public key stored on the server. Only then is access granted.
Because of this security model, Rapyd Cloud does not support password-based logins.
Before You Begin
Before creating or importing your SSH key, make sure that you:
Have access to your Rapyd Cloud Dashboard.
Know which site you will connect to, since each site manages its own key list.
Have a secure folder on your computer to store your key:
Windows:
C:\Users\YourName\.ssh\macOS/Linux:
~/.ssh/
Think of the .ssh folder as a private space on your computer where your secure connection keys are stored.
Option 1: Create an SSH Key Pair in the Rapyd Cloud Dashboard
The fastest way to create a compatible key pair is directly from your site’s File access area.
Log in to your Rapyd Cloud Dashboard.
Go to Sites → Manage site → Manage → File access.
Click Create key pair.
Enter a descriptive name for your device, for example
work-laptop.Rapyd Cloud will automatically:
Store the public key on your site’s server.
Download the private key (.pem) file to your computer.
Move the downloaded
.pemfile to your.sshfolder:Windows:
C:\Users\YourName\.ssh\macOS/Linux:
~/.ssh/
Keep this file private and do not rename or share it.
You can now use this key to connect to your site through SFTP or SSH.
Option 2: Create or Import a Key Pair with PuTTYgen or ssh-keygen
If you already use SSH for other services or prefer your own key generator, you can create a key pair manually and import the public key to Rapyd Cloud.
Using PuTTYgen (Windows)
Download and install PuTTY from the official website.
Open PuTTYgen.
Click Generate, and move your mouse in the blank area to add randomness.
(Optional) Enter a Key passphrase for extra protection.
Click Save private key to download your
.ppkfile. Store it safely in your .ssh folder.Copy the Public key for pasting later:
In the Rapyd Cloud Dashboard, go to File access → Import key pair.
Enter a name at least 10 characters long, then paste the public key.
Click Import.
Using ssh-keygen (macOS or Linux)
Open Terminal.
Run the following command:
ssh-keygen -t rsa -b 4096 -C "yourname@yourdevice"
When prompted, press Enter to accept the default file path (
~/.ssh/id_rsa).(Optional) Add a passphrase for extra protection.
Your keys will be created at:
Private key:
~/.ssh/id_rsaPublic key:
~/.ssh/id_rsa.pub
In the Rapyd Cloud Dashboard, open File access → Import key pair.
Enter a name and upload or paste the
.pubfile contents.Click Import.
Important Considerations
Each site manages its own list of authorized keys.
You can add or remove keys anytime from the File access area.
Removing a key instantly revokes access for that device.
You can reuse one key across several sites, though unique keys per device are safer.
Conclusion
Your SSH key pair is the foundation of secure access on Rapyd Cloud. It replaces traditional passwords with a cryptographic handshake that ensures only trusted devices can connect.
Once your key is created or imported, store it safely and use it whenever you connect to your site through SFTP or SSH. If you ever lose your private key or switch devices, simply remove the old key from your site’s File access area and add a new one.
Keeping your keys organized and protected not only maintains your own security but also helps keep your environment stable and compliant with Rapyd Cloud’s access policies.