SSH access for WordPress

This article will guide you through setting up SSH access for your WordPress hosting environment, allowing you to securely manage your website via command line tools like WP-CLI. You’ll learn how to generate SSH keys, add them to your hosting dashboard, and connect to your server securely on different operating systems.

What is SS

H and Why Use It? SSH (Secure Shell) is a secure protocol that enables encrypted connections to your server. It’s ideal for advanced users who want direct access to server resources, offering greater control and automation possibilities for WordPress management.

Key Benefits of SS

H AccessSSH access offers several key advantages that improve server management and site security: Enables use of WP-CLI for faster, scriptable WordPress managementProvides secure, encrypted server connectionsAllows direct file operations without needing FTPFacilitates automation and deployment workflowsSupports multi-user, key-based authentication for teamsEnhances security through passwordless, key-based loginHow To Create Your SSH KeyCreating an SSH key ensures only authorized devices can connect to your server.

Follow the steps for your specific operating system. On macOSYou can quickly generate and copy your SSH key using Terminal. Open Terminal.

• Run: ssh-keygen -t rsaPress Enter through all prompts (no password required).
• Copy your key: pbcopy < ~/.ssh/id_rsa.pubOn LinuxGenerating and copying your SSH key is simple and secure on Linux.

Open Terminal.

• Run: ssh-keygen -t rsaAccept defaults by pressing Enter.
• Install xclip if needed: Ubuntu: sudo apt install xclipArch: sudo pacman -S xclipFedora/CentOS: sudo yum -y install xclipCopy key: cat ~/.ssh/id_rsa.pub | xclip -sel clipOn WindowsWindows users can create SSH keys using PowerShell.

Open PowerShell.

• Run: ssh-keygen.exe -t rsaPress Enter through prompts.
• Copy key: Get-Content .ssh\id_rsa.pub | Set-ClipboardHow To Add Your SSH Key to the Hosting DashboardAdding your SSH key authorizes your device for server access.

Log in to your hosting dashboard. Navigate to Advanced Settings > Server Settings. Enable SSH Access. Go to SSH Keys Manager → click Import New Key.

Paste your public key. Name your key (e.g. “Jane’s MacBook”). Click Import — system will authorize your key. How To Connect to Your Server via SSHConnecting allows you to use terminal commands on your server.

Get your Host/IP and Username from the dashboard. Open terminal. Run: ssh yourusername@yourhostipConfirm first-time connection with yes. Navigate to your WordPress directory:cd public_htmlCommon WP-CLI CommandsThese commands help manage your WordPress site efficiently: List plugins: wp plugin listClear cache: wp cache flushPurge CDN cache: wp cdn purgeManaging SSH KeysYou can manage keys for better security and flexibility: Delete unused keys anytime via SSH Keys Manager.

Add keys for other devices/team members. Rotate keys regularly for enhanced security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if I lose my private key? You’ll need to generate a new key pair and re-add the public key. Q: Can I use a password instead of a key? No, key-based authentication is required for SSH on this hosting platform.

Q: How do I revoke access for a stolen device? Delete the corresponding key from SSH Keys Manager immediately. Q: Is SSH access available on all plans? Please check your hosting plan details — some plans may not include SSH.