How to Connect to a VPS via SSH

Connecting to a VPS via SSH

After your VPS server has been activated, you will receive the server IP address, username, and password. SSH is the standard protocol used for secure remote administration of Linux VPS servers.

Requirements

• Server IP address
• Username (usually root)
• Password or SSH key
• SSH client

Connecting from Linux and macOS

Open a terminal and run the following command:

ssh root@SERVER_IP

Replace SERVER_IP with the IP address of your VPS.

Example:

ssh root@192.168.1.100

When connecting for the first time, SSH will ask you to verify the server fingerprint. Type:

yes

Then enter your password when prompted.

Connecting from Windows

Modern versions of Windows include a built-in SSH client available through PowerShell and Command Prompt.

Run:

ssh root@SERVER_IP

You can also use popular third-party SSH clients such as PuTTY.

Using SSH Keys

For improved security, it is recommended to use SSH key authentication instead of passwords.

Create a new SSH key:

ssh-keygen -t ed25519

Copy the public key to your server:

ssh-copy-id root@SERVER_IP

Verifying the Connection

After a successful login, you should see the server command prompt:

root@server:~#

You can now manage your VPS, install software, configure services, and work with files remotely.

Common Errors

Connection refused

The SSH service is not running or the SSH port is blocked by a firewall.

Permission denied

Verify that your username, password, or SSH key is correct.

Connection timed out

Check that the server is online and the IP address is correct.

Need Assistance?

If you are unable to connect to your VPS, please open a support ticket with ForceVPS and provide the server IP address along with the exact error message you receive.