Articles on: Virtual Servers

How do I access my VPS console if SSH isn’t working?

If you're unable to connect to your VPS using SSH - perhaps due to a misconfigured firewall, networking issue, or sshd service failure - you can access your server directly using the built-in console feature in the Elitehost Client Area. This provides gives you direct access to your server, similar to plugging a screen and keyboard into a physical machine.


When should I use the VPS console?


Use the console if:


  • SSH is not responding or has been disabled
  • You’ve blocked your own IP via the firewall
  • Network settings were changed and broke connectivity
  • The VPS is booting into a recovery or error state


How to access the console


  1. Log in to the Elitehost Client Area.
  2. Go to Services > My Services.
  3. Find your VPS and click Manage.
  4. In the left-hand menu, click Console under the Management section.
  5. You’ll be presented with two remote access options: Xterm.js or noVNC.


Remote Console Access Options


Xterm.js:


  • Text-based terminal console (no GUI)
  • Fast and lightweight
  • Supports copy/paste in most browsers
  • Best used for command-line tasks or server recovery
  • May not fully support certain OS or graphical boot interfaces


noVNC:


  • Browser-based VNC viewer for graphical access
  • Offers higher compatibility across different operating systems
  • Suitable for servers with a GUI or interactive installers
  • Slightly slower than Xterm.js and does not support text copy/paste as efficiently


Both console types are pre-configured on our standard Linux VPS images.


Tips


  • If one option doesn't load or work as expected, try the other.
  • The console runs independently of your network setup, so it will work even if SSH or firewall rules are misconfigured.
  • You’ll need your root VPS login credentials to log in via the console.


The VPS console is your safety net - allowing you to recover or manage your server even when all else fails.

Updated on: 15/04/2025

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