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# How do I connect via SSH?

Accessing your cPanel account via SSH (Secure Shell) allows you to securely perform command-line tasks. This guide covers connecting to SSH through the cPanel Terminal, PuTTY (Windows), and Terminal (macOS/Linux). 

|| Elitehost does not use the default SSH port (22). You will receive the correct port number upon requesting SSH access.

#### Prerequisites

* **Enable SSH Access**: SSH is not enabled by default on shared cPanel hosting. If you have a Business or Reseller package, request SSH access by  [submitting a support ticket](https://my.elitehost.co.za/submitticket.php?step=2&deptid=14) or emailing [helpdesk@elitehost.co.za](mailto:helpdesk@elitehost.co.za).
* **Credentials**: Have your cPanel username, server hostname or IP address, and the custom SSH port (provided by support) ready.

### Connecting via the cPanel Terminal

The **cPanel Terminal** offers an easy way to access SSH directly from your browser.

1. **Log in to cPanel**.
2. Navigate to **Advanced** and click on **Terminal**.
3. A terminal window will open, allowing you to enter commands directly.

This is a simple option for quick access without additional setup.

### Connecting via SSH on macOS or Linux

macOS and Linux come with SSH pre-installed, making it easy to connect through the Terminal.

1. **Open the Terminal** on your computer.
* For MacOS: You can find Terminal in Applications > Utilities or by searching Terminal in Spotlight.
2. Enter the following command, replacing `username` with your cPanel username, `hostname` or `IP` with your server’s address, and the provided port number:

`ssh username@hostname -p PORT`

3. Enter your cPanel account password when prompted.

### Connecting with PuTTY on Windows

PuTTY is a popular SSH client for Windows users, providing a straightforward interface for connecting via SSH.

1. **Download and Install PuTTY**
   * Download PuTTY from the official website if it's not already installed.

2. **Open PuTTY and Configure Settings:**
   * **Host Name**: Enter your server’s hostname or IP address.
   * **Port**: Input the custom SSH port provided by Elitehost.
   * **Connection Type**: Make sure SSH is selected.

3. **Initiate the Connection**
   * Click **Open** to connect. On the first login, PuTTY will prompt you to confirm the server’s host key. Click **Yes** to continue.

4. **Enter Your SSH Password**
   * When prompted, type your SSH password to complete the login process.​

### Important Tips for SSH Access

* **Custom Port**: Remember that Elitehost uses a non-standard SSH port. Be sure to use the correct port provided by support.
* **Securing Access:** For better security, consider using SSH keys instead of your cPanel password. Refer to this article: [How do I set up SSH keys for cPanel?](/en/article/how-do-i-set-up-ssh-keys-for-cpanel-17fjxiq/)

If you have any questions or require further assistance, please feel free to contact our [support team](https://my.elitehost.co.za/submitticket.php?step=2&deptid=14) or email helpdesk@elitehost.co.za.