You need to be on campus or connected to the network from off campus via the VPN to set up your SSH Key.  

1. Generate a Modern SSH Key

Run this command on macOS, Linux, or Windows PowerShell:

ssh-keygen -t ed25519 -a 100 -C username@bates.edu

2. Note where the key will be saved (for example, “Users/username/.ssh/id_ed25519”).

3. Protect the Private Key:

Choose a strong passphrase when prompted.

3. Install Your Public Key on the Server (you need to be on campus or connected to leavitt via the VPN to complete this step):

ssh-copy-id -i ~/.ssh/id_ed25519.pub username@leavitt.bates.edu

If prompted:

“Are you sure you want to continue connecting (yes/no/fingerprint)” Enter: “yes.”

When prompted (for “username@leavitt.bates.edu’s password”) enter your Bates password.

4.  Disconnect from VPN if off campus, and try to connect to leavitt, specifying port 222:

ssh -p 222 username@leavitt.bates.edu

5. When prompted provide your passphrase from step 3 above.