SSH allows you to connect securely to a Linux VPS or server from a remote computer.
Before you start
Make sure you have the following information:
- Server IP address
- SSH username
- SSH password or private key
- SSH port
The exact login details depend on your server configuration.
Connecting from Windows
You can use Windows Terminal, PowerShell or another SSH client.
Open the terminal and enter:
ssh username@server-ip
For example:
ssh root@192.0.2.10
If your server uses a custom SSH port, use:
ssh -p PORT username@server-ip
For example:
ssh -p 2222 root@192.0.2.10
Connecting from macOS or Linux
Open Terminal and enter:
ssh username@server-ip
If a custom SSH port is used:
ssh -p PORT username@server-ip
First connection
The first time you connect, you may be asked to confirm the server fingerprint.
Review the information carefully before accepting the connection.
Password login
If password authentication is enabled, enter the SSH password when requested.
For security reasons, the password may not appear on screen while you type.
SSH key authentication
Some servers use SSH keys instead of passwords.
If a private key is required, the exact command depends on where the key is stored.
For example:
ssh -i /path/to/private-key username@server-ip
Troubleshooting
If you cannot connect, check:
- The server IP address is correct.
- The SSH username is correct.
- The SSH port is correct.
- The server is online.
- Your firewall allows SSH traffic.
- Your password or SSH key is correct.
- SSH access is enabled on the server.
Security recommendations
- Use strong passwords or SSH keys.
- Do not share private SSH keys.
- Restrict SSH access where appropriate.
- Keep the server updated.
- Disable unused accounts.
Need assistance?
If you cannot connect to your VPS or server using SSH, please contact our support team with the server details and the exact error message you receive.
