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How to Convert PEM to PPK Format on Linux and Windows

by Salman Chawhan

When working with remote servers, especially on AWS, you will receive a .pem key file for SSH access. However, a .ppk (PuTTY Private Key) file is needed for applications like PuTTY, which is widely used on Windows.

1. To convert PEM to PPK, install PuTTY Tools on a Linux desktop or server.

Run the following command
Open Terminal (ctrl + t)


on Ubuntu/Debian

sudo apt update
sudo apt install putty-tools

on RedHat/CentOS.

sudo yum install putty

Converting PEM to PPK

puttygen your-key.pem -o your-key.ppk


Replace your-key.pem with the name of your actual PEM file. This command will create a new.ppk file in the same directory.

2. Windows PEM to PPK Conversion

Step 1: First, download and install PuTTYgen.
Step 2: Open the PEM file
  • Launch PuTTYgen.
  • Select “Load.”
  • Choose “All Files (*.*)” from the file type dropdown.
  • Select your.pem file.
Step 3: Save as a PPK
  • Select “Save private key.”
  • Setting a passphrase is optional.
  • Use the.ppk extension to save it.
Advice on Security

Your keys should always be kept in safe, restricted-access locations. In production settings, don’t use private keys without a passphrase.
Verify that the file permissions are limited:
chmod 400 your-key.pem
chmod 600 your-key.ppk

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