Read-only deploy keys
You can now create deploy keys with read-only access. A deploy key is an SSH key that is stored on your server and grants access to a single GitHub repository.…
You can now create deploy keys with read-only access. A deploy key is an SSH key that is stored on your server and grants access to a single GitHub repository. They are often used to clone repositories during deploys or continuous integration runs. Deploys sometimes involve merging branches and pushing code, so deploy keys have always allowed both read and write access. Because write access is undesirable in many cases, you now have the ability to create deploy keys with read-only access.
New deploy keys created through GitHub.com will be read-only by default and can be given write access by selecting “Allow write access” during creation. Access level can be specified when creating deploy keys from the API as well.
Written by
Related posts
GitHub Availability Report: August 2025
In August, we experienced three incidents that resulted in degraded performance across GitHub services.
Your guide to GitHub Universe 2025: The schedule just launched!
Create your own agenda of favorites, sign up for one-on-on mentoring sessions, and register if you haven’t already. We’ll see you there!
Explore the best of GitHub Universe: 9 spaces built to spark creativity, connection, and joy
See what’s happening at Universe 2025, from experimental dev tools and career coaching to community-powered spaces. Save $400 on your pass with Early Bird pricing.