Using SSH to Access Your Server

SSH (Secure Shell) is a secure way to remotely connect to your server and manage it via the command line. It’s often used for advanced administration, troubleshooting, and installing software.

Step 1: Gather Your SSH Details

You’ll need the following (provided in your welcome email or client area):

• Hostname/IP Address → e.g., 123.45.67.89 or yourdomain.com
• Port → usually 22 (may differ on some servers)
• Username → e.g., root (for VPS/dedicated) or your hosting account username
• Password → or SSH key if configured

Step 2: Choose an SSH Client

• Windows → Use PuTTY or the built-in Windows Terminal/PowerShell (supports ssh).
• macOS/Linux → SSH is built-in. Just use the terminal.

Step 3: Connect to Your Server

• Command line example:

ssh username@yourdomain.com -p 22

• Enter your password when prompted (note: it won’t display as you type).

Step 4: Verify Connection

Once connected, you’ll see your server’s command prompt. From here, you can:

• Navigate files and folders (cd, ls)
• Manage processes (top, htop)
• Install or update software (depends on your server type)

Step 5: Secure Your SSH Access

For better security:

• Use SSH keys instead of passwords.
• Disable root login if not needed.
• Change the default SSH port (22) to something custom.
• Use a firewall (like UFW) to restrict SSH access to trusted IPs.

Troubleshooting

• Connection refused? → Make sure SSH is enabled on your server and the firewall allows the port.
• Wrong password? → Double-check your username and password (case-sensitive).
• Timeout? → Check your internet connection or try using the server’s IP instead of the hostname.