What is the significance of using SSH keys for authentication?

The use of SSH keys for authentication is significant primarily because they provide a secure method compared to traditional passwords. SSH keys are a pair of cryptographic keys, consisting of a public key and a private key. The public key can be shared freely, while the private key is kept secure and confidential. When a user attempts to connect to a server via SSH, this key pair allows for a secure and encrypted connection that protects against eavesdropping, man-in-the-middle attacks, and various forms of brute-force attacks that can compromise password-based systems.

Unlike passwords, which can be weak, reused, or intercepted, SSH keys are much more complex and are not easily guessable. They also enhance security by eliminating the need to send passwords across the network, minimizing the risk associated with password exposure. Each key pair is unique, and the security associated with it remains in the possession of the user, making it a safer choice for authentication in many environments.

The other options, while they might touch on aspects of using SSH, do not encapsulate the primary advantage of using SSH keys: their strong security compared to traditional password methods.