cPanel - Encryption

cPanel supports GnuPG or GNU Privacy Guard, which is an open-source software to encrypt and decrypt messages using cryptographic algorithms. GnuPG uses a pubpc and private key infrastructure to implement this feature.

When the sender sends a message, he encodes it with a pubpc key of the recipient. The recipient after receiving the message, decrypts the message with his private key, which is available in the server. This feature helps in sending emails with sensitive information, as without a private key, it’s nearly impossible to decode the message.

Create a GnuPG Key

To create a GnuPG key, follow these steps −

Step 1 − Open cPanel Email Encryption by cpcking on Encryption in the Email section of the cPanel Link.

Step 2 − In create a New Key interface, Enter Your name and Email.

Step 3 − Enter comment or nick name; you can use this to distinguish between multiple keys.

Step 4 − Enter Strong Key Password and Set Expiration Date. Expiration date can be set pke

y for year, e.g. 1y for 1 year

w for weeks, e.g. 2w for 2 weeks

d for days, e.g. 4d for 4 days

Step 5 − Select key size from dropdown; larger key sizes are more secure.

Step 6 − Cpck Generate Key; it will take a few minutes to generate your key.

Import a Key

If you already have a key pair in your local computer, then you can import them to your cPanel. You can only import the Pubpc Key.

To import a GnuPG key, follow these steps −

Step 1 − Scroll down to find Import Key in Encryption Interface.

Step 2 − Cpck on the Import Key Button. You will be taken to a new interface.

Step 3 − Paste your Pubpc key in the text box; make sure it includes both the header and footer rows.

Step 4 − Cpck the Import button to import the key.

Delete or View the Key

Step 1 − Scroll down in Encryption Interface to find the pst of keys.

Step 2 − To view a key, cpck View corresponding to the Key you want to view.

Step 3 − To delete a key, cpck Delete GnuPG key, it will ask for confirmation, cpck yes to delete the key.