Accessing your Hostinger VPS using SSH (Secure Shell) is essential for managing your web hosting server securely and efficiently. If you’re using a Linux-based server, such as an Ubuntu Hostinger VPS, SSH provides a secure channel over an unsecured network, allowing you to execute commands, transfer files, and administer your server remotely.

This guide will walk you through the steps to connect to your Hostinger VPS using SSH on a Linux system. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, mastering SSH is crucial for effective web hosting management. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Why Use SSH for Web Hosting?

SSH is a protocol that allows you to connect to a remote server securely, making it particularly valuable for web hosting. Here are some reasons why SSH is the preferred method for accessing your Linux VPS:

• Security: SSH encrypts your data, protecting sensitive information from potential eavesdroppers, which is critical for web hosting operations.
• Remote Management: You can manage your web hosting server from anywhere, providing flexibility in your operations.
• Command Execution: SSH allows you to execute commands directly on your server, enabling efficient administration without needing a graphical interface.

Step-by-Step Guide to Access Your Hostinger VPS Using SSH

Step 1: Gather Your Connection Information

Before you begin, ensure you have the following information:

• Server IP Address: You can find this in your Hostinger account under the VPS management section.
• Username: The default username for your Ubuntu Linux VPS is usually root.
• Password: Use the temporary password provided in your Hostinger welcome email.

Step 2: Open Your Terminal or PuTTY

If you are using a Linux distribution or macOS, you can use the built-in terminal. For Windows users, consider using an SSH client like PuTTY.

Using PuTTY to Connect to Your Linux VPS

1. Download and Install PuTTY: If you haven’t already, download PuTTY from the official website. Install it on your Windows machine.
2. Launch PuTTY: Open the PuTTY application.
3. Enter Your Server Details:
   • In the “Host Name (or IP address)” field, enter your server’s IP address.
   • Make sure the “Port” is set to 22 (the default SSH port).
   • Ensure “Connection type” is set to SSH.
4. Click Open: This will initiate the connection.
5. Login Prompt: A terminal window will appear, prompting you for your username. Enter root and press Enter. Then, enter your password (note that the cursor will not move) and press Enter again.
6. Change Your Password: Once logged in, change your password using the command:bashCopy codepasswd Follow the prompts to enter and confirm your new password.

Step 3: Perform Initial Setup on Your Linux VPS

Now that you have accessed your Hostinger VPS via SSH, consider performing some initial setup tasks to optimize your web hosting environment:

Update Your Package List:

sudo apt update

Upgrade Installed Packages:

sudo apt upgrade

Configure Your Firewall: Enhance security by allowing only necessary connections:

sudo ufw allow OpenSSH sudo ufw enable

Conclusion

Accessing your Hostinger VPS using SSH is a vital skill that allows you to manage your web hosting server efficiently and securely. With the ability to execute commands directly from your terminal or through PuTTY, you can maximize the potential of your Ubuntu Hostinger VPS.