SSH Keys

When using a secure connection, Screens can authenticate with the remote machine using either a username and password or a private SSH key.

How to Authenticate with a Private SSH Key

Screens for macOS

• In the saved screen's settings, click the Secure Connection tab.
• Click the key icon to browse for a private SSH key.

The key icon will turn blue upon loading a valid private key.

Screens for iOS

In order for Screens for iOS to use a SSH key, it needs to be imported. Our recommendation is to copy the private key content in the clipboard (via Notes, Mail, etc.)

Method 1: Clipboard. You can copy the key content and send it to yourself via Mail:

Then, simply copy the key content on your iOS device and Screens will be able to import it from the Clipboard.

Method 2: Files app. Use then built-in iOS Files app to select a private key.

To add a SSH key:

• Open the Screens app settings
• Tap on SSH Keys
• Tap the + button
• Select the source. Clipboard for Method 1 or Files for Method 2.
• Give your key a name

To use a SSH key:

• Edit a saved screen.
• Under Secure Connection, tap Advanced.
• Next to the Password field, tap the key icon.

• Choose Keys.

Considerations

Screens for iOS or Mac 4.12.3 and later:

Screens now supports OpenSSH 9 and multiple key formats (PEM, RSA, EcDSA, Ed25519, etc.) 

Screens for iOS or Mac versions previous to 4.12.3:

Due to technical considerations, older versions of Screens do not support the newer OpenSSH key format. We recommend using the PEM format.

Security

SSH keys are securely stored in the iOS/macOS Keychain.