If you are starting with a SSh VPS server, it is important that learners know how to log in to the VPS using SSH. SSH or Secure Shell is a method to gain access to the server you are administering and change its configurations remotely.
But, if you are a beginner at this then there is nothing wrong with that at all. In this guide, everything on how you can connect to your VPS for the first time using SSH will be made clear. For more specific information on VPS setup refer to our VPS guide section here.
What Is SSH and Why Use It?
Essentially SSH is a secure technique through you can communicate to the server from another computer. It comes with a terminal that operates by providing command line options to get or run things in the server and install software. Even more so for developers, web admins, or anyone being responsible for their website or application on a VPS.
Now let’s take a look at the process of SSH connection and how to make it on your VPS:
Step 1: Get Your VPS Details Ready
Before you can connect to your VPS using SSH, you need some details:
- IP Address of the VPS: This is something like the home address of your server.
- Username: It is root or another name which your hosting company may have assigned.
- Password or SSH Key: This is used to ensure that you are legit when connecting to the actual server.
You should receive this information when you register for your hosting with your hosting provider.
Step 2: Install an SSH Client
If you are on Linux or macOs you have a terminal that supports SSH installed by default. For the Windows operating system users, the command prompt or PowerShell can be used for SSH. Otherwise you can download and install widely used program called PuTTY.
- Linux/macOS: There is no further installation allowed for this software. You can use the Terminal app.
- Windows: To use PowerShell, you can just type “PowerShell” in the start menu. In order to use PuTTY, it should be installed from the official website of PuTTY.
Step 3: Open the Terminal or PuTTY
Now to connect, which is the aim of having an SSH client ready in the first instance.
- For Linux/macOS: Open Terminal.
- For Windows using PowerShell: Hold the Windows key and press the X button and select Windows PowerShell.
- For Windows using PuTTY: Launch PuTTY.
Step 4: Connect to Your VPS via SSH
Using Terminal (Linux/macOS) or PowerShell (Windows)
In the Terminal or PowerShell, use the following command to connect: ssh username@your_vps_ip
For example, if your username is root and your IP address is 192.168.1.1, the command will be: ssh root@192.168.1.1
- Press Enter. You may get a warning about the server’s authenticity. Type yes and press Enter to proceed.
- Enter Your Password: You will be prompted to enter your VPS password. Type it in (note that for security reasons, you won’t see anything while typing) and press Enter.
If the password is correct, you’ll see that you are now connected to your server!
Using PuTTY (Windows)
- Open PuTTY.
- In the Host Name (or IP address) field, enter your VPS IP.
- Port Number: Ensure it is set to 22 (the default SSH port).
- Click Open.
- You’ll see a terminal window asking for your username. Enter root or whatever username you have.
- Then, enter your password when prompted.
After successful login, you should see the command prompt for your VPS.
Step 5: Set Up SSH Keys for Easier Access (Optional)
To make logging in easier in the future, you can set up an SSH key. This allows you to connect without typing your password each time. Follow these steps:
Generate an SSH Key Pair
In your local terminal (Linux/macOS/Windows PowerShell), type: ssh-keygen -t rsa -b 4096
- You’ll be asked where to save the key. Press Enter to save it in the default location.
- Set a passphrase if you want extra security, or leave it blank.
Copy Your Public Key to Your VPS
Use the following command to copy your public key to the VPS: ssh-copy-id username@your_vps_ip
- Replace username and your_vps_ip with your actual username and VPS IP.
- Enter your password when prompted.
Now, you can log in without entering a password:
ssh username@your_vps_ip
Step 6: Basic Commands to Know
Once you’re logged in, you’ll need some basic commands to interact with your VPS:
- List Files: Use ls to list files in the current directory.
- Change Directory: Use cd folder_name to move to a specific folder.
- Update the System: Run apt update && apt upgrade (for Ubuntu/Debian) to update your server.
Wrapping Up:
Connecting to your VPS for the first time using it’s can feel a bit overwhelming, but it’s straightforward if you follow the steps we’ve outlined above. First, gather your VPS details, install an SSH client, and use it to connect securely. Once connected, you can manage your server efficiently from anywhere.
It is a powerful tool that provides you with full control over your VPS. Following these steps, you can log in and start setting up your server as per your requirements. Remember to take some time to secure your SSH connection to keep your data safe.
