How to Connect to Your Dedicated Server via SSH

How to Connect to Your Dedicated Server via SSH

Connecting to your dedicated server via SSH is an essential task for managing and maintaining your server securely. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough to help you establish an SSH connection to your dedicated server.

Step 1: Obtain Your Server Details
Before starting, ensure you have the necessary details to connect:

• IP Address: The public IP address of your dedicated server.
• Username: The default SSH username, often root for administrative access.
• Password: The password associated with your server’s root user.

Step 2: Install an SSH Client
An SSH client is a tool that allows you to establish a secure connection to your server.

• For Windows users, download and install PuTTY, a popular SSH client.
• For macOS and Linux users, SSH is built into the terminal application.

Step 3: Open Your SSH Client
Follow these steps to launch the SSH client:

• Windows: Open PuTTY from your installed applications.
• macOS/Linux: Open the terminal by searching for "Terminal" in the applications menu.

Step 4: Enter Server Details
Input your server details to initiate the connection:

• Windows (PuTTY):

  • Enter your server’s IP address in the "Host Name (or IP address)" field.
  • Leave the port as 22 (default SSH port).
  • Click "Open" to start the connection.

• macOS/Linux (Terminal):

  • Type the following command and press Enter:

    ssh root@your-server-ip
    

  • Replace your-server-ip with your server's actual IP address.

Step 5: Authenticate with Your Server
Once the connection is initiated, authenticate yourself:

• Windows (PuTTY): A terminal window will prompt you to enter the username (e.g., root) and then the password.
• macOS/Linux (Terminal): After entering the command, you’ll be prompted to input the server’s root password.

Step 6: Verify the Server's Identity
The first time you connect, you may see a message about the server's authenticity.

• Review the message to ensure it matches your server details.
• Type yes to proceed.

Step 7: Access the Server Command Line
Once authenticated, you will have access to your server’s command line.

• You can now execute commands to manage and maintain your server.

Tips for Enhanced Security

• Change Default Password: Update your root password after your first login for enhanced security.
• Use SSH Key Authentication: Set up SSH key-based authentication to avoid relying solely on passwords.

By following this guide, you can easily connect to your dedicated server via SSH and begin managing your server efficiently. For more advanced configurations or assistance, refer to our support team.