Here is a step-by-step guide for using OpenKeychain to generate a GPG key on Android devices. OpenKeychain is user-friendly, free, and provides an intuitive interface, even for less tech-savvy users.
Step-by-Step Guide for OpenKeychain
1. Install OpenKeychain
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- Search for OpenKeychain or use this link:
OpenKeychain on Google Play Store. - Tap Install to download and install the app.
2. Open OpenKeychain and Generate a New Key
- Open the OpenKeychain app.
- Tap Create My Key or the + symbol to generate a new GPG key.
- Follow these steps:
- Name: Enter your name or a pseudonym.
- Email Address: Enter your email address (optional but recommended).
- Tap Next.
- Set a Password (optional but recommended):
- OpenKeychain will ask if you want to protect your private key with a password.
- Choose a strong password and store it securely.
- Start Key Generation:
- Tap Generate. The app will create your key pair (public and private keys).
- This process may take a few seconds.
3. Export Your Public Key
The public key is required to register on the website. Here’s how to export it:
- In the OpenKeychain app, you’ll see your newly created key in the list.
- Tap on your key to open the details.
- Tap the Share icon (usually an arrow or three dots at the top-right).
- Select Share or Export, then choose Export File.
- You can save the file as an .asc file or share it via another app (e.g., email).
4. Create a Signed Message (Optional)
If the website requires you to sign a message (e.g., a timestamp):
- Go back to the OpenKeychain home screen.
- Tap the menu Sign/Verify a Message.
- Enter a message (e.g., the current timestamp like
2024-12-17 12:34). - Select your private key to sign the message.
- Copy the signed message and submit it as needed.
5. Keep Your Private Key Safe
The private key is your digital secret and must never be shared!
- OpenKeychain securely stores the private key on your device.
- To export the private key for backup:
- Open your key in OpenKeychain.
- Tap Share/Export and choose Export Private Key.
- Save the key in a secure location (e.g., encrypted on your PC or USB drive).
Summary
- OpenKeychain is a user-friendly tool for generating and managing GPG keys.
- The public key is used for registration and identification.
- The private key remains secret and is used to sign messages.
- Signed messages provide added security by proving ownership of the key.
If you need further assistance with OpenKeychain or any specific steps, feel free to ask! 😊