How to Connect to a VPS Server via SSH (Step-by-Step)

New to VPS hosting? Learn how to connect to your server via SSH in under 5 minutes — step-by-step for beginners. 🖥️🔐

Start with a fast VPS from nanohost.org — from $8/mo in 5 locations.

How to Connect to a VPS Server via SSH (Step-by-Step Guide)

So, you’ve just bought a VPS — great! 🎉 Now, you need to connect to it.

The most common and secure way is via SSH (Secure Shell). This guide will show you how to connect to your server using Windows, macOS, or Linux — even if you’ve never done it before.

What is SSH?

SSH stands for Secure Shell. It lets you securely access and control your VPS from anywhere using a command-line interface (terminal).

Think of it as remote control for your server.

Step 1: Get Your VPS Info

When you purchase a VPS (e.g., from nanohost.org), you’ll receive:

• Your server IP address
• Your username (usually root)
• Your password or SSH key

Example:

IP Address: 45.12.34.56
Username: root
Password: abc123xyz

Step 2: Open a Terminal or SSH Client

🔹 On macOS or Linux:

Just open the built-in Terminal.

Then run: ssh root@45.12.34.56

When prompted, type yes to trust the connection, then enter your password.

🔹 On Windows:

Option 1: Using Windows Terminal (Windows 10/11)

Press Win + S, type “Terminal” and open Windows Terminal or Command Prompt.

Then run: ssh root@45.12.34.56

Enter your password when prompted.

Option 2: Use PuTTY (if you're using older Windows)

• Download PuTTY from putty.org
• Open PuTTY and enter your server IP in the “Host Name” field
• Set Port to 22
• Click Open

Enter root as the username, then your password

✅ You’re Connected!

Once connected, you’ll see something like this:

You’re now inside your server and can install software, run services, or configure anything you want.

💡 Tips

• Don’t share your server IP or root password with anyone
• Use exit to log out from the server
• You can change your password anytime with passwd
• Keep your system updated: apt update && apt upgrade

🚀 Get Started with a Reliable VPS

Need a VPS to practice with? Try nanohost.org:

• 🖥️ Fast SSD VPS with full root access
• 🌍 Locations in the US, EU, and Asia
• 🔐 SSH access ready out of the box
• 💸 Starting from just $8/month

Perfect for learning, hosting projects, or building your own tools.