Creating SSH key pairs on Mac

To create SSH key pairs on Mac, the built-in Terminal application is used, which is located in the Utilities folder under Applications.

Start Terminal and run the command ssh-keygen -m PEM -f ~/Desktop/anvil_key.  This will create two key files on your Desktop, one public and one private, which can later be moved to whatever location you prefer.

A prompt will appear to enter a passphrase.  Press Enter twice to continue and create the key without a passphrase.

The command will complete and you will see a message saying the files have been created.

There will now be two key files on your Desktop.  The public key is named anvil_key.pub.  This public key will later be added to your Anvil account for SSH access to your instances.  The private key is named anvil_key (no .pub extension).  Treat the private key file the same as you would a password.  Keep your private key in a secure location and do not share it with anyone.