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“Unable to Fetch GPG Key from Keyserver” error in LXC

by Nikhath K | Published on February 26, 2025 | Updated on February 27, 2025

Learn how to fix the “Unable to Fetch GPG Key from Keyserver” error in LXC. Our LXC/LXD Support team is here to help you with your questions and concerns.

“Unable to Fetch GPG Key from Keyserver” error in LXC

"Unable to Fetch GPG Key from Keyserver" error in LXCWe will likely run into the “unable to fetch GPG key from keyserver” error when using LXC (Linux Containers) to create new containers.

This error occurs when the system cannot retrieve the necessary GPG key from a keyserver, which is essential for verifying the authenticity and integrity of container images.

Today, we will look at the impacts of the error and how to resolve the error easily,

Impacts of the Error

  • The primary impact is the failure to create containers. Developers and system administrators relying on LXC for deploying applications may face project delays when commands like `lxc-create` fail due to GPG key fetching errors.
  • Without GPG key verification, downloaded images cannot be authenticated, opening the system to potential security threats. Some users may bypass this check using `–no-validate`, exposing their environments to untrusted code.
  • In environments dependent on LXC, container creation failures can disrupt workflows, causing downtime and financial losses.
  • Resolving this issue often involves diagnosing network connectivity, firewall rules, or DNS configurations, taking time away from core tasks.
  • Keyserver downtime or unavailability can directly impact container creation, as users rely on these external services.
  • In attempting to fix the issue, users may misconfigure their systems — altering firewall rules or proxy settings incorrectly, which can introduce further problems.

Causes and Fixes

1. Network Connectivity Issues

Lack of network access to the keyserver.

Click here for the Solution.
  1. First, test internet connectivity: 
    ping -c 4 google.comCopy Code
  2. Then, check keyserver reachability: 
    ping pool.sks-keyservers.netCopy Code
  3. Verify firewall/proxy settings.

2. Keyserver Downtime

The keyserver may be temporarily offline.

Click here for the Solution.
  1. First, set an alternative keyserver: 
    export DOWNLOAD_KEYSERVER="hkp://keyserver.ubuntu.com"Copy Code
  2. Retry container creation: 
    sudo lxc-create -t download -n mycontainer -- -d ubuntu -r xenial -a amd64Copy Code

3. DNS Resolution Issues

DNS problems prevent keyserver resolution.

Click here for the Solution.
  1. View current DNS settings: 
    cat /etc/resolv.confCopy Code
  2. Switch to public DNS servers (Google): 
    sudo nano /etc/resolv.conf
nameserver 8.8.8.8
nameserver 8.8.4.4
Copy Code
  3. Then, test DNS resolution: 
    dig pool.sks-keyservers.net
Copy Code

4. Firewall/Proxy Restrictions

Firewalls blocking port 11371.

Click here for the Solution.
  1. First, list firewall rules: 
    sudo iptables -LCopy Code
  2. Next, allow traffic on port 11371: 
    sudo iptables -A OUTPUT -p tcp --dport 11371 -j ACCEPTCopy Code
  3. Configure proxy settings in GPG: 
    echo "http-proxy=http://your.proxy.server:port/" >≫ ~/.gnupg/gpg.confCopy Code

5. Outdated LXC Version

Older LXC versions may have bugs.

Click here for the Solution.
  1. Check the current LXC version: 
    lxc –versionCopy Code
  2. Update LXC: 
    sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade lxc
Copy Code

6. GPG Configuration Issues

Incorrect GPG configuration.

Click here for the Solution.
  1. Review GPG settings: 
    cat ~/.gnupg/gpg.confCopy Code
  2. Disable IPv6 (if necessary): 
    echo "no-tty" >> ~/.gnupg/gpg.confCopy Code
  3. Then, reload the GPG agent: 
    gpg-connect-agent reloadagent /bye
Copy Code

Prevention Strategies

  • Keep LXC and GnuPG up to date.
  • Use multiple keyservers to avoid reliance on a single point of failure.
  • Regularly audit firewall and proxy settings.
  • Set alternative keyservers in advance.
  • Implement scripts to check keyserver reachability.
  • Maintain a troubleshooting guide for quick recovery.

[Need assistance with a different issue? Our team is available 24/7.]

Conclusion

By following these solutions and preventive strategies, we can minimize disruptions caused by GPG key fetching errors and ensure smooth LXC container creation.

In brief, our Support Experts demonstrated how to fix the “Unable to Fetch GPG Key from Keyserver” error in LXC

Related posts:

  1. Centos LXC Failed to create bus connection error | Fixed
  2. How to Fix “Container is Already Running” Error in LXC
  3. LXC Error Mounting PROC | Fixed
  4. Access LXC Container From Outside: Configuration
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Related Articles

  1. Centos LXC Failed to create bus connection error | Fixed
  2. How to Fix “Container is Already Running” Error in LXC
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