What Is SSH?
Short answerSSH (Secure Shell) is the standard encrypted way to log into a Linux server over the network and run commands in a terminal. On a VPSGrid Linux VPS, you usually connect as root (or another allowed user) to the primary IP on port 22 with a password or SSH key.
Overview
This article explains what SSH is and how it fits VPSGrid Linux VPS plans. For connection steps on Windows, macOS, and Linux, see How to Connect to a Linux VPS Using SSH or Connect via SSH to Your VPSGrid Linux VPS.
What SSH does
- Opens an encrypted remote shell on your VPS
- Lets you install packages, edit configs, manage services, and view logs
- Can also carry related tools such as SFTP / SCP for file transfer
On Windows VPS plans, the normal graphical path is RDP, not SSH — see What Is RDP?.
The pieces you will see in emails and guides
- Host / IP — your VPS primary IPv4 from the client area
- Port — default 22/TCP (changeable later if you harden SSH)
- Username — often
rooton fresh Linux templates (confirm your welcome details) - Password — initial Cloud-Init password, or
- SSH key — public/private key pair preferred for long-term access
Password vs key authentication
- Password — easy for first login; protect it and change it after access works
- SSH keys — stronger default for ongoing admin; private key stays on your computer
Key setup: How to Enable SSH Key Authentication · comparison: SSH Keys vs Password Login.
Typical first command
ssh root@YOUR_PRIMARY_IPReplace YOUR_PRIMARY_IP with the address from Services → My Services. On Windows you can use PowerShell, Windows Terminal, or a client such as PuTTY.
If SSH fails
- Confirm the VPS is online in the client area
- Recheck IP, username, password/key, and port
- Use the browser noVNC/console if the network path or
sshdis broken
Recovery: How to Use the Console When SSH or RDP Fails · troubleshooting: Cannot Connect to Linux VPS with SSH.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SSH the same as a website control panel?
No. SSH is a command-line remote login. Panels (if you install one) are separate software you manage yourself on unmanaged plans.
Do Windows VPS plans use SSH?
Standard VPSGrid Windows administration is RDP (or the browser console). SSH is the normal path for Linux VPS plans.
Where are the full connection steps?
Use the Linux SSH connection guides for your operating system. This page is the concept explainer.
Related Articles
Need More Help?
Open a ticket at billing.vpsgrid.net with your service ID and primary IP if you cannot determine the correct SSH username or port.
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