# SecKeyCreateRandomKey(_:_:) Generates a new public-private key pair. ``` func SecKeyCreateRandomKey(_ parameters: CFDictionary, _ error: UnsafeMutablePointer?>?) -> SecKey? ``` ## Parameters `parameters` A dictionary you use to specify the attributes of the generated keys. See [Key Generation Attributes](/documentation/Security/key-generation-attributes) for details. `error` An error reference pointer that [`SecKeyCreateRandomKey(_:_:)`](/documentation/Security/SecKeyCreateRandomKey(_:_:)) populates with a suitable error instance on failure. ## Return Value The newly generated private key, or `NULL` on failure. In Objective-C, call the function to free the key when you are done with it. ## Discussion To get the associated public key, use [`SecKeyCopyPublicKey(_:)`](/documentation/Security/SecKeyCopyPublicKey(_:)). [`SecKeyCreateRandomKey(_:_:)`](/documentation/Security/SecKeyCreateRandomKey(_:_:)) fails and returns [`errSecInteractionNotAllowed`](/documentation/Security/errSecInteractionNotAllowed) if you call it in the background on iPhone or iPad while the device is locked. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)