[adammck]

This is a great feature to get started, but it's unfortunate that the "ssh" file hack doesn't set up SSH keys and disable password auth, or at least change the default password. That must be done manually. I dread to think how many Pis are out there in this configuration.

I hope that in future, a proper/official headless image will be provided, to provide more sensible defaults. Until then, I made a little tool to patch the Raspbian images to set things up this way:

https://github.com/adammck/headless-raspbian

[Nexxxeh]

Sorry, I didn't mean to imply that it leaves the pi in a ready-to-deploy stage. I just meant it lets you get into it so you can configure it, which you otherwise need a keyboard or wired NIC for.

[adammck]

Not at all, your solution entirely solves the most annoying part. I just prefer to do the next step in an automated manner, too.

[technomalogical]

Check out PiBakery, it allows you to take a stock image and do some post-startup config, including setting up keys for SSH and changing passwords.

http://www.pibakery.org/

[Havoc]

>the "ssh" file hack doesn't set up SSH keys and disable password auth, or at least change the default password.

It's a quick an dirty hack to enable you to SSH on the local network & avoid finding a screen & keyboard.

SSH keys you can add later...presumably your local net can keep the bad guys out for the 30 mins it takes.