> # Generating an RSA Key Pair

> RSA key-pairs are used to sign and/or encrypt and decrypt the security payload during security protocol exchanges for applications such as IKE/IPsec and SSH, and they are required before you can obtain a certificate for your switch.

> ## Detailed Steps

> To generate an RSA key-pair, follow these steps:

> 1. Expand Switches > Security and then select PKI in the Information pane.
> 2. Click the RSA Key-Pair tab.
> 3. Click Create Row.
> 4. Select the switches for which you want to create the RSA key-pair.
> 5. Assign a name to the RSA key-pair.
> 6. Select the Size or modulus values. Valid modulus values are 512, 768, 1024, 1536, and 2048.

> Note The security policy (or requirement) at the local site (MDS switch) and at the CA (where enrollment is planned) are considered in deciding the appropriate key modulus.

> Note The maximum number of key-pairs you can configure on a switch is 16.

> 7. Check the Exportable check box if you want the key to be exportable.

> Caution | The exportability of a key-pair cannot be changed after key-pair generation.

> Note Only exportable key-pairs can be exported in PKCS#12 format.

> 8. Click Create to create the RSA key pair.

> Copyright 2010-2013, Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.