← Blog

Full library access

Unlock every article — and keep reading each month

Create a free account, pick a plan that fits how you read, and use monthly credits for deep dives on engineering, products, and founder reality. Cancel or switch anytime from your profile.

Blog

How to switch from GitHub password authentication to personal access token

Hi, my name is Tom Smykowski, I'm a staff full-stack engineer. I build and scale SaaS platforms to millions of users, working end-to-end from system architecture to frontend to mobile. On this blog I share what I learn about software engineering, career growth, and navigating the AI revolution.

What This Article Covers

This article delves into the process of transitioning from GitHub's now-obsolete password authentication to the more secure personal access token method. It provides step-by-step instructions to set up your system for SSH-based authentication, addressing common errors and misconceptions along the way.

Questions This Article Answers

  • Why did GitHub remove password authentication, and what does it mean for developers?
  • What are the necessary steps to configure your system for SSH authentication with a personal access token?
  • How can you troubleshoot common issues when switching to personal access tokens?
  • What best practices should you follow to ensure a smooth transition and maintain security?
  • How can setting up a personal access token enhance your workflow with GitHub?

Length and Time

A detailed guide with practical setups and troubleshooting tips. Approximately 10 minutes to read.

Want to unlock the full story? Log in

Full library access

Unlock every article — and keep reading each month

Create a free account, pick a plan that fits how you read, and use monthly credits for deep dives on engineering, products, and founder reality. Cancel or switch anytime from your profile.

← All posts