---
id: cloud-accounts.sftp-key-passphrase
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/cloud-accounts/sftp-key-passphrase
category: "Cloud accounts"
subcategory: "FTP and SFTP servers"
question: "Do I need to enter a passphrase for my SFTP key?"
alt_questions:
  - "Key passphrase field SFTP"
  - "Encrypted SSH key Storage Studio"
  - "SFTP key has a passphrase"
  - "Leave key passphrase blank?"
  - "Passphrase strength for SSH key"
short_answer: "Only if your key has one. Leave it blank for an unprotected key; otherwise type it in. The passphrase is strength-checked and stored in Storage Studio's encrypted vault on your Mac."
tags: ["sftp", "ssh key", "passphrase"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/cloud-accounts/how-do-i-pick-an-ssh-key-file", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/cloud-accounts/password-strength-meter-explained"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# Do I need to enter a passphrase for my SFTP key?

Only if your key is protected by one. Leave **Key passphrase** blank for a key without a passphrase; if the key has one, type it in so Storage Studio can unlock the key when it connects.

A passphrase you enter is checked by the strength meter and kept in Storage Studio's encrypted vault on your Mac. If Test connection fails right after adding, a wrong or missing passphrase is a likely cause — click **Edit** and re-enter it.