Sign in into the **Google Cloud Platform**

Type "**Service Accounts**" in the search bar and click on the **Service Accounts** option

**What are Service Accounts?**\
\
In Google Cloud Platform (GCP), service accounts are used by applications or services to securely interact with GCP resources. They authenticate via credentials and are assigned specific roles and permissions to control access. By operating with defined permissions, service accounts help manage and secure interactions between services and resources, ensuring both authentication and authorization are handled effectively.

**Service accounts** wizard will open, scroll to the **Email** section and click on the\
 **compute engine service account** link that we have created earlier

Refer to this guide to learn about Getting Started with Service Accounts\
<https://scribehow.com/shared/Getting_Started_with_Service_Accounts__VNCoZDUEQl-ZQ3NoP7o2Pg>

**compute-engine-service-account-with-bucket-creation** wizard will open, click on the **KEYS** tab

**What are KEYS?**\
\
"Keys" refer to the credentials used to authenticate and authorize the service account. These keys are typically in the form of JSON files that contain the private key and other information needed for secure interactions with GCP services. They allow applications or services to access and manage GCP resources on behalf of the service account, ensuring secure and controlled access.

Scroll the page and click on the **ADD KEY** dropdown button and click on the **Create new key** option

Create a private key for "**compute-engine-service-account-with-bucket-creation**" wizard will open, select the option **JSON**

**What is Key type: JSON?**\
\
In GCP, the "Key type: JSON" refers to a service account key in JSON format. This key file contains the credentials necessary for authentication and authorization of a service account. The JSON file includes the private key, client email, project ID, and other information required for secure access to GCP resources. It is commonly used to enable applications and services to interact with GCP APIs and resources securely.

You can select the option **P12** as per your requirements.

**What is Key Type: P12?**\
\
In GCP, the "Key type: P12" refers to a service account key in PKCS#12 format. This format is used for storing cryptographic keys and certificates in a single file. A P12 key file includes a private key and a certificate, which are used for authentication and secure communication with GCP resources. While P12 keys are supported, Google recommends using JSON keys for service accounts due to their ease of use and better integration with modern tools.

Click on the **CREATE** button to create the key

Congratulations! on completing this lab and Exploring Service Account Use Case V2

Google Cloud

This guide provides valuable insights into various use cases for service accounts, helping users understand their practical applications and benefits.

Exploring Service Account Use Cases V2