How to Connect to Your Linux Server via SSH
What is SSH?
SSH, or Secure Shell, is a network protocol that provides a secure channel over an unsecured network. It is widely used by network administrators for managing systems and applications remotely, allowing them to log into another computer over a network, execute commands and move files from one computer to another.
Benefits of SSH
- Secure
SSH uses encryption to secure the connection between the client and the server. This ensures that sensitive data is not exposed to network threats such as eavesdropping or man-in-the-middle attacks.
- Remote Access
SSH provides remote command-line, command execution, and file transfer on remote devices. This makes it a versatile tool for managing remote servers.
- File Transfer
SSH includes secure file transfer capabilities with the SCP and SFTP protocols, replacing insecure file transfer protocols such as FTP.
- Remote Application Access
SSH allows you to run applications on remote servers and redirect their graphical output to your local system.
When would you use SSH?
SSH is used in a wide range of applications, including remote command-line login, remote command execution, and secure file transfer. It is also used in network management, backup and disk imaging solutions, and secure browsing and email services.
SSH Use Cases
- Remote Administration
SSH is a vital tool for system administrators for managing servers and networks remotely. It allows administrators to connect to another computer in the network, view its system details, and make necessary changes.
- File Transfers
SSH provides secure file transfer capabilities with the SCP and SFTP protocols. These protocols allow for secure and reliable file transfers, making them a preferred choice for administrators and developers alike.
- Remote Application Access
SSH can be used to run software on a remote machine and have the application display on the local machine. This is particularly useful for running software on a machine more powerful than the local one.
How to Connect to Your Linux Server via SSH
To connect to your Linux server via SSH, you will need to have an SSH client installed on your local computer. If you are using Windows, you can use PuTTY. If you are using macOS or Linux, you can use the built-in SSH client. You will also need to know the IP address of your server and the username and password for your server or have an SSH key pair.
Some Recommended SSH Clients
Connecting to Your Linux Server via SSH
For the purposes of this guide, we will be using the command line SSH client on macOS and Linux. If you are using Windows, you can use PuTTY or another SSH client.
Connecting to Your Linux Server via SSH on macOS and Linux
To connect to your Linux server via SSH on macOS and Linux, you will need to open a terminal window and run the following command:
ssh username@ip-addressIf you have a different port than the default port 22, you will need to specify the port number with the -p option:
ssh -p port-number username@ip-addressYou’ll either asked to add this IP to the list of known hosts or asked to enter the password for the user you’re trying to log in as. If you’re asked to add the IP to the list of known hosts, type yes and press enter. If you’re asked to enter the password for the user you’re trying to log in as, enter the password and press enter.
The authenticity of host 'ip-address' can't be established. ECDSA key fingerprint is SHA256:hash. Are you sure you want to continue connecting (yes/no/fingerprint])? yes Warning: Permanently added 'ip-address' (ECDSA) to the list of known hosts. username@ip-address's password:If you’re asked to enter the password for the user you’re trying to log in as, enter the password and press enter.
username@ip-address's password:If you were not prompted to enter a password, but were able to connect this could mean a few things:
- You have an SSH key pair set up and the public key is on the server.
- Your server is configured to allow passwordless SSH logins.
SSH Key-Based Authentication
SSH also supports logging in with a pair of keys, eliminating the need for a password. You generate a pair of keys: a private key that stays with you and a public key that you put on the machine you want to log into. When you log in, the SSH server uses the public key to “lock” messages in a way that can only be “unlocked” by your private key - this means that even the most resourceful attacker can’t snoop on, or interfere with, your session.
Troubleshooting SSH Connections
If you’re having trouble connecting to your server via SSH, here are a few things you can try:
- Check your internet connection: Make sure you have a stable internet connection and that you’re not experiencing network issues.
- Verify the server’s IP address: Make sure you’re using the correct IP address for your server.
- Check the SSH service on your server: Make sure the SSH service is running on your server. You can do this by logging into your server’s control panel and checking the status of the SSH service.
- Check your firewall settings: If your server’s firewall is blocking SSH connections, you won’t be able to connect. Check your firewall settings to make sure SSH connections are allowed.
- Use verbose mode: If you’re still having trouble, try connecting with verbose mode enabled (ssh -v). This will provide more detailed output and may help you identify the problem.
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