Server Login

Server Login

How to connect and log into a Linux server

What is Server Login?

Server login is the process of authenticating and gaining access to a remote Linux server. This is typically done over SSH (Secure Shell), which provides an encrypted connection.

  • Servers are usually accessed remotely over a network
  • SSH is the standard protocol for secure remote login
  • You need a username, password or SSH key, and the server's IP address

SSH – Logging Into a Server

Basic SSH login command

ssh username@server_ip_address

Example

[local]$ ssh root@192.168.56.101 root@192.168.56.101's password: Last login: Sat Oct 17 15:29:00 2020 [root@localhost ~]#
  • Type your password when prompted (it won't be visible)
  • After login, you will see the server's command prompt

SSH with Custom Port

By default SSH uses port 22. If the server uses a different port, specify it with -p

ssh -p 2222 root@192.168.56.101

PuTTY – Windows SSH Client

PuTTY is a popular SSH client for Windows users to connect to Linux servers.

  • Download PuTTY from putty.org
  • Enter the server IP address and port (default 22)
  • Select SSH as the connection type
  • Click Open and enter your credentials
Host: 192.168.56.101 Port: 22 Connection type: SSH

First-Time Login Warning

The first time you connect to a server, SSH will show a fingerprint warning. Type yes to accept and continue.

The authenticity of host '192.168.56.101 (192.168.56.101)' can't be established. RSA key fingerprint is SHA256:abc123xyz... Are you sure you want to continue connecting (yes/no)? yes Warning: Permanently added '192.168.56.101' to the list of known hosts.
  • The fingerprint is saved in ~/.ssh/known_hosts
  • Future connections won't show this warning

Logging Out

To safely end your SSH session, use one of these methods:

[root@localhost ~]# exit logout Connection to 192.168.56.101 closed.

Or press Ctrl + D to logout instantly.