SSH (Secure Shell) access allows secure remote connections to your hosting server. It's commonly used for file management, running commands, managing databases, and making server-level changes via the command line. This guide explains how to enable, configure, and use SSH access through cPanel.

What Is SSH Access?

SSH is a secure network protocol that enables encrypted remote access to a server. It is typically used for:

• File management and transfers

• Running scripts and server commands

• Managing databases and configurations

Communication over SSH is encrypted, providing a secure channel between your device and the server.

Managing SSH Access in cPanel

Step 1: Log in to cPanel

1. Open your browser and go to your cPanel login URL (e.g., https://yourdomain.com/cpanel).

2. Enter your username and password.

3. Click Log in.

Step 2: Open the SSH Access Tool

1. In the cPanel dashboard, locate the Security section.

2. Click SSH Access.

Step 3: Enable SSH Access (if required)

• If SSH is not already enabled for your account, contact your hosting provider.

• Some hosting plans offer SSH access by default; others may require an upgrade.

Step 4: Generate an SSH Key

1. On the SSH Access page, click Manage SSH Keys.

2. Click Generate a New Key.

3. Fill in the following details:

   • Key Name: Leave blank to use the default.

   • Key Password: Create a strong password.

   • Key Type: Select RSA.

   • Key Size: Choose 2048 or 4096.

4. Click Generate Key.

The new key will be listed under both Public Keys and Private Keys.

Step 5: Authorize the Public Key

1. In the Public Keys section, find your newly created key.

2. Click Manage, then select Authorize.

Step 6: Download the Private Key

1. In the Private Keys section, click View/Download next to the key.

2. Enter the key password to decrypt it.

3. Click Download Key and save it securely.

Connecting to the Server Using SSH

Option 1: Using PuTTY (Windows)

1. Download and install PuTTY.

2. Open PuTTY and configure the following:

   • Host Name: Your server’s IP address or hostname.

   • Port: 22

3. In the left menu, go to Connection > SSH > Auth.

4. Click Browse and select your private key file (.ppk).

5. Click Open to initiate the connection.

Option 2: Using Terminal (macOS/Linux)

Use the following command in your terminal:

ssh -i /path/to/private-key username@server_ip

Replace:

• /path/to/private-key with the path to your key file

• username with your cPanel username

• server_ip with the server’s IP address

Accept the server’s fingerprint and enter your key password when prompted.

Managing SSH Keys

Change SSH Key Passphrase

1. Go to Manage SSH Keys.

2. Locate your private key.

3. Click Change Passphrase, enter the new password, and confirm.

Revoke SSH Access

1. In the Public Keys section, locate the key.

2. Click Manage, then select Revoke Authorization or delete the key entirely.

Best Practices for SSH Access

• Use a strong passphrase to secure your private key.

• Restrict SSH by IP using a firewall or IP whitelisting.

• Rotate SSH keys regularly for security hygiene.

• Disable password authentication on the server if possible, using only key-based login.

For any issues or assistance with SSH access, feel free to contact Lanetti support. We're here to ensure secure and seamless server management for your hosting needs!