How to connect to your VPS via SSH
Connect to your UnderHost Cloud VPS using SSH from Windows, Mac, or Linux. Find credentials, use password or key-based auth, and troubleshoot connection issues.
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SSH (Secure Shell) is the standard way to manage a Linux VPS. You connect from your computer's terminal to the VPS command line. From there you can install software, manage files, configure services, and do everything your server needs.
Find your SSH credentials
Your VPS IP address, SSH username (usually root), and initial password are in the provisioning email. You can also find the IP in CustomerPanel → Services → your VPS → service details.
Connect from Windows
Windows 10/11 includes a built-in SSH client. Open PowerShell or Windows Terminal and run:
ssh root@your-server-ipType yes to accept the host key on first connection, then enter your password. Alternatively, use PuTTY-a graphical SSH client for Windows. Enter your IP in the Host field, port 22, and click Open.
Connect from Mac or Linux
Open Terminal and run:
ssh root@your-server-ipTo connect on a non-standard port: ssh -p 2222 root@your-server-ip
SSH key authentication
SSH keys are more secure than passwords and eliminate password prompts. Set them up on your local machine:
- Generate a key pair:
ssh-keygen -t ed25519(press Enter to accept defaults) - Copy the public key to the server:
ssh-copy-id root@your-server-ip - Test:
ssh root@your-server-ip-should connect without a password prompt - Optionally disable password auth in
/etc/ssh/sshd_config: setPasswordAuthentication no
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Connection refused | SSH port (22) may be blocked. Check your VPS firewall rules. Use the CustomerPanel emergency console to investigate. |
| Connection timed out | Server may be offline. Check the CustomerPanel for VPS status. Also check if port 22 is blocked by a firewall rule. |
| Permission denied (password) | Wrong password. Reset from CustomerPanel → service details → Change Password. |
| Host key verification failed | The server's key changed (after OS reinstall). Remove the old key: ssh-keygen -R your-server-ip |
| Locked out by firewall | Use the CustomerPanel emergency console to log in and fix the firewall rules. |
Related: How to manage your Cloud VPS | How to use the VPS emergency console in CustomerPanel | Setting up a firewall on your VPS | Updating packages on your Linux VPS
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