What is SSH?
SSH (Secure Shell) is an encrypted network protocol used to securely access and manage remote servers over an unsecured network. It provides a secure command-line interface, encrypted file transfers (via SFTP/SCP), and the ability to tunnel other network protocols.
How Does SSH Work?
SSH establishes a secure, encrypted connection between a client and a server, typically on port 22. Authentication can be done through passwords or, more securely, through cryptographic key pairs. With SSH key authentication, you generate a public and private key pair; the public key is placed on the server, and the private key remains on your local machine. Only someone with the matching private key can connect.
SSH is essential for server administration in web hosting. It allows you to remotely execute commands, edit configuration files, restart services, monitor logs, and manage your server as if you were physically present. SSH also supports port forwarding and tunneling, which can secure other protocols by routing them through the encrypted SSH connection. Tools like PuTTY (Windows) and the built-in terminal (macOS/Linux) provide SSH client functionality.