Learn the essentials of SSH access, host-key verification and basic server safety before making changes.
Start with the checks below. Each step explains what to look for and what to try next.
What you need
You need your VPS public IP or hostname, a permitted SSH username, and the key or password configured for the account. Some managed services restrict direct SSH access.
Make your first connection
- Open a trusted terminal on your device.
- Use
ssh username@server-addresswith the correct account details. - Verify the server’s SSH host-key fingerprint through a trusted source before accepting it.
- Use a secure key-based login where supported.
Basic post-login safety
Apply security updates according to your distribution and change-management procedure, restrict administrative access, and maintain working recovery access before modifying firewall rules.
If SSH fails
Check the IP, username, port, firewall or security group, and whether SSH is enabled. Do not disable firewalls to troubleshoot without understanding the exposure.
Guidance may vary by plan, control panel version and enabled features. Review the settings available to your account before changing live services.