How to convert OpenSSH private key to PuTTY's .ppk

PuTTY requires a ppk format for its private keys. To use your existing OpenSSH private key with PuTTY, you need to convert it to a ppk format. This conversion is essential for maintaining SSH access on Windows systems.

The tool used for this conversion is PuTTYGen, also known as the PuTTY Key Generator. It allows you to load your OpenSSH private key and export it as a ppk file. This ensures that your key is compatible with PuTTY.

Converting your key to ppk enables you to use the same SSH key across different platforms, including Linux and Windows. This avoids the need to generate new keys and ensures consistent server access.

1. Download PuTTY Key Generator (puttygen.exe) from the official website.

   https://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/latest.html

2. Launch PuTTYGen.
3. Click on the Load button.
4. Set the Files of type to All Files (*.*), select your SSH's private key file and click on the Open button.
5. Enter your key's passphrase if prompted and click on the OK button.
6. A prompt will pop up once the conversion is successful, and click the OK button.
7. Edit any key parameters if necessary and click on Save private key.
8. Select the location and filename to save the generated key and click on the Save button.