C++

Load an Encrypted PKCS #8 Private Key File

Demonstrates the Chilkat PrivateKey.LoadPkcs8EncryptedFile method, which loads a private key from a file, using a password when the key is encrypted. The first argument is the file path and the second is the password. It handles encrypted PKCS #8 DER or PEM, and unencrypted forms.

Note: The file path is relative to the application's current working directory. Absolute paths may also be used. Supply the path to your own key file.

Background: Encrypted PKCS #8 is the standard way to store a password-protected key in either binary DER or Base64 PEM. This loader decrypts both, and because it also accepts unencrypted input it is a robust choice when a PKCS #8 file may or may not be encrypted. As always, source the password securely.

Chilkat C++ Downloads

Download Chilkat for C++

C++

#include <CkPrivateKey.h>

void ChilkatSample(void)
    {
    bool success = false;

    //  Demonstrates the PrivateKey.LoadPkcs8EncryptedFile method, which loads a private key from a
    //  file, using a password when the key is encrypted.  The 1st argument is the file path and the
    //  2nd is the password.  It handles encrypted PKCS #8 DER or PEM, as well as unencrypted forms.

    CkPrivateKey privKey;

    //  The key password is not hard-coded in a real application; obtain it from an interactive
    //  prompt, environment variable, or a secrets vault.
    const char *password = "myKeyPassword";

    success = privKey.LoadPkcs8EncryptedFile("qa_data/private_pkcs8_enc.der",password);
    if (success == false) {
        std::cout << privKey.lastErrorText() << "\r\n";
        return;
    }

    std::cout << "Loaded a " << privKey.keyType() << " private key." << "\r\n";
    }