Silk Road forums

Discussion => Newbie discussion => Topic started by: mbius298073 on May 01, 2013, 03:29 pm

Title: PGP Question
Post by: mbius298073 on May 01, 2013, 03:29 pm
I was wondering what key size for PGP people on here use and recommended? I think 2048 is the best at the moment?
Title: Re: PGP Question
Post by: tree on May 01, 2013, 03:38 pm
It's recommended you use a 4096bit key, key sizes under 4096bit are potentially vulnerable, I read. But the longer it is, the better. Most PGP softwares allow a maximum of 4096 though. If you can make a bigger one then do it!
Title: Re: PGP Question
Post by: dothedamnthing on May 01, 2013, 03:47 pm
2048 is the maximum for GPG4Win, but you can create a 4096 key with GPG4USB. It's a much better program anyway so I would recommend using it if you have a PC.
Title: Re: PGP Question
Post by: 19467382 on May 01, 2013, 04:44 pm
If you're only talking about brute-forcing, pragmatically, 2048 bits is sufficient. No machine/cluster of machines is going to be able to brute force your private key/perform the prime factorization on it in a time frame that would make it worth while. If you want to be on the safe side though, more bits is better.

You're much more likely to be compromised by someone intercepting/stealing your private key. So for PGP, you should choose a strong passphrase for your keyring as a preventative measure for someone straight stealing your private key. As always, stay safe!
Title: Re: PGP Question
Post by: Clockwork66504 on May 01, 2013, 06:11 pm
2048 is the maximum for GPG4Win, but you can create a 4096 key with GPG4USB. It's a much better program anyway so I would recommend using it if you have a PC.

Cheers For that. I was using GPA. That is a little better.