Using SSH Agent for Connections via Compute Cloud Shell

This guide explains how to use SSH agent for managing SSH keys when connecting through Compute Cloud Shell.

SSH Agent Benefits

• Automatic key management
• Single sign-on experience
• Enhanced security through key forwarding
• Simplified multi-hop connections

Configuration

Linux/Mac

`ash

Start SSH agent

eval

Add your key

ssh-add ~/.ssh/id_rsa ``n

Windows

`cmd

Start SSH agent service

Get-Service ssh-agent | Set-Service -StartupType Automatic Start-Service ssh-agent

Add key

ssh-add ~/.ssh/id_rsa ``n

Cloud Shell Usage

1. Configure SSH agent locally
2. Connect to Cloud Shell with agent forwarding
3. Access compute instances seamlessly

Security Considerations

• Use agent forwarding carefully
• Limit agent lifetime
• Protect agent socket