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
- Log in to the Elitehost Client Area.
- Go to Services > My Services.
- Find your VPS and click Manage.
- In the left-hand menu, click Console under the Management section.
- 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.
Updated on: 15/04/2025
Thank you!