How to Setup Shell Access and SSH Keys
- Ben Bush
Connecting to your hosting account using an SSH client such as PuTTY, or connecting using Terminal can be a very effective way to quickly navigate through your file directories, view basic account functions, locate data logs, and set more restrictive permissions. This allows you to view access from just one window, which can make things more efficient for those that are familiar with this form of accessing web hosting. To make a secure connection to your server, however, we need to create secure keys to create that access.
Before setting up your SSH Key you will need to request access to use SSH on your account by submitting a support ticket or sending an email to support. Once we enable this for you, and you've set up your Keys, you will be able to connect to your server.
Login to your cPanel account.
Scroll down your cPanel home page until you locate the 'Security' section, and from there, select the SSH Access icon.
You will need to create a private SSH Key. From this window, select the Manage SSH Keys button.
Here you will have the option to 'Generate a New Key', or 'Import Key' if you have an existing key already created and wish to use that. In this example, we will be generating a new key.
Locate the SSH Key Generator and create a new key with the information requested:
Variables:
The 'Key Name' is a default one, which you can leave as is.
The 'Key Password' you set needs to be at least 5 characters long with a strength of at least 65.
You can choose between a DSA or RSA 'Key Type'. DSA is faster at key generation and signing, while RSA is faster at key verification.
'Key Size' is required to be at least a 2048-bit key, you can also select a 4096-bit key if you prefer.
Make sure you save the 'Key Password' as you will not be able to view it after the Key has been generated.
Select Generate Key when you have the information you wish and the private key will be created.
You should now see both a Public and Private Key was generated. In order to enable the key click Manage.
Select the Authorize button to enable the key.
You should now be able to 'View/Download' and use the Private Key with your preferred SSH client.
