11.2. The Key Server Dialog

SUSE LINUX – User Guide Chapter 11. Encryption with KGpg / 11.2. The Key Server Dialog
	Chapter 11. Encryption with KGpg		11.3. Text and File Encryption

Several Internet-based key servers offer the public keys of many users. To engage in encrypted communication with a large number of users, use these servers to distribute your public key. For this purpose, export your public key to one of these server. Similarly, KGpg enables you to search one of these servers for the keys of certain people and import their public keys from the server.

11.2.1. Importing a Key from a Key Server

By means of the ‘Import’ tab in the key server dialog, import public keys from one of the Internet-based key servers. Use the drop-down menu to select one of the preconfigured key servers and enter a search string (e-mail address of the communication partner) or the ID of the key to find. When you click ‘Search’, your system connects to the Internet and searches the specified key server for a key that matches your specifications. Refer to Figure 11.3. “Search Screen for Importing a Key”.

Figure 11.3. Search Screen for Importing a Key

If your search on the key server is successful, a list of all retrieved server entries is displayed in a new window. Select the key to include in your key ring and click ‘Import’. See Figure 11.4. “Hits and Import”. Confirm the following message with ‘OK’ then exit the key server dialog with ‘Close’. The imported key then appears in the main overview of the key manager and is ready for use.

Figure 11.4. Hits and Import

11.2.2. Exporting Your Keys to a Key Server

To export your key to one of the freely accessible key servers on the Internet, select the ‘Export’ tab in the key server dialog. Designate the target server and the key to export by means of two drop-down menus. Then start the export with ‘Export’.

Figure 11.5. Exporting a Key to a Key Server