Tell me more ×
Ask Different is a question and answer site for power users of Apple hardware and software. It's 100% free, no registration required.

I have two dev machines I want to use for iOS development. I have successfully setup my iOS dev profile on my main machine.

I transferred my iOS developer profile to a secondary machine using procedure described at http://developer.apple.com/library/ios/#documentation/ToolsLanguages/Conceptual/Xcode4UserGuide/080-Manage_Your_Devices/manage_devices.html (section "Transfer Your Developer Profile to Another Computer"). All went fine and I am able to deploy to my devices.

I have noticed that the secondary machine doesn't contain my public keys, only private keys and certs are present. Is there a reason why public keys are not transferred? Aren't they ever used after the signing cert is issued by Apple? How about when you are a team member and you ask the team admin for a cert, doesn't it involve your public key? I have managed to move the public keys, this is not a problem but I want to understand better this whole keys/cert workflow.

share|improve this question
I'm going to close this as not constructive since asking why Apple does something isn't prone to get good answers. Asking what might break due to X (and getting an explanation) is generally better. Also, we are not really for developers per the faq, so you might search on stackoverflow.com in case you prefer to ask there if you are interested in a developer-centric audience. This question is kind of in an abondoned middle where SO prefers programming and not so much "why Apple" but hopefully, your question would do well there if it gets to how apple uses keys in Xcode and iOS dev. – bmike Nov 8 '12 at 21:03

closed as not constructive by bmike Nov 8 '12 at 21:03

As it currently stands, this question is not a good fit for our Q&A format. We expect answers to be supported by facts, references, or specific expertise, but this question will likely solicit debate, arguments, polling, or extended discussion. If you feel that this question can be improved and possibly reopened, see the FAQ for guidance.

Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.