Using GPG on Mac OS X
- There are two main components to using GPG: creating and
managing your own private and public keys, and encrypting and
decrypting files that you send and receive. We will start with GPG
key creation and management.
- Before we do any of that, however, we will need to download
the necessary software to run GPG. The most recent release (which
is compatible with OS X 10.2) is 1.2.1r2. It can be downloaded
here: http://prdownloads.sourceforge.net/macgpg/GnuPG1.2.1r2.dmg?download
- After you download it, double click the GnuPG1.2.1r2.dmg file,
a folder opens, double click on the package icon
 and
answer the questions, that will take care of installing PGP for
you.
- Open a Terminal window (Computer > Applications >
Utilities > Terminal) and type the following: gpg -
-gen-key
- This is the command to create a key. When asked which type of
key, select 1.
- Next, it will ask you what key size you would like. Type
1024
- Now it will ask you when the key should expire. Type 0
- Is this correct type Y
- Next it will ask you to enter information about yourself so
you can be identified against your key. You will need to enter
your name, email address and note (optional), then type
O
- Next it wants Passphrase to decrypt incoming files and admin
changes. After this it will begin to generate your key.
- When this is done, your key will have been
created.
- Once you are given a command prompt again, you can list the
keys you have by entering the following: gpg -
-list-keys
- Exporting Keys: Now we need to export your public key for
everbody else. At the command prompt type: gpg -a - -export
doe@ohio.edu >/Users/doe/Desktop/DOEKEY.txt The file will
appear on your desktop. This is your public key.
- Importing Keys: When you receive someone's public key you have
to add them to your key database in order to be able to use them.
To import into the database the command looks like this gpg -
-import [filename]
Office of Information Technology
Ohio University
Athens, OH 45701
Service Desk: (740) 593-1222 or servicedesk@ohio.edu
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