What is SSH (Secure Shell) and why is it important for web hosting?

In the world of web hosting services, security and data protection are crucial. One of the key technologies that provide a high level of security is SSH. Also known as Secure Shell or Secure Socket Shell, is a network protocol that gives users, especially system administrators, a secure way to access a computer over an unsecured network.

What is SSH?

SSH is a protocol for encrypting and securely exchanging data between two computers, usually a user computer and a server. It provides a secure communication channel by using a public and private key. SSH is especially important with web hosting services. There, data security and server access are critical. Secure Shell is designed to replace insecure terminal emulation and access programs such as Telnet, rlogin, and rsh. SSH also replaces file transfer programs such as File Transfer Protocol (FTP) and rcp (remote copy).

How Does SSH Work?

If you use an unencrypted program when connecting to a remote computer, the Bash session can be read by anyone who knows where to look during the data transfer. This means that your passwords can be saved and used in the future. All personal information you transfer will be readable. The purpose of SSH is to encrypt the information you transfer to a remote machine. This way your session is encrypted and anyone who tries to spy on you will only be able to read a single unintelligible text. But how does SSH actually work?

  1. Authentication Keys:
    • SSH uses two types of keys: public and private. The private key is stored on the server while the public key is provided to the client.
    • When the client initiates a connection with the server, a public key is sent. The server uses its private key to authenticate and authorize client access.
  2. Data encryption:
    • SSH uses various encryption algorithms that ensure that the data transmitted over the channel is protected from possible attacks by which the information can be stolen.
  3. Remote Control:
    • One of SSH’s strengths is the ability to manage servers remotely. Users can use SSH to access and manage their servers, even if they are physically located elsewhere.

What is SSH used for in web hosting services?

SSH connections are used to secure various types of communications between a local machine and a remote web host. This includes secure access to remote server resources, remote command execution, software patches and updates, and more. Access is also provided for a variety of other administrative or management functions.

In addition to creating an encrypted channel between local and remote computers, SSH is used to manage routers, server hardware, virtualization platforms, operating systems (OS), and internal management of file transfer systems and applications.

Secure Shell can be used to connect to servers, make changes, upload data either using tools or directly through the terminal. SSH keys are suitable for automating access to servers and are often used in scripts, backup systems, and systems management tools.

Basic functions

SSH keys provide single sign-on (SSO) so users can switch between their accounts without having to enter a password each time they log in.

The main function of SSH is in identity management and access control. Also, Secure Shell does more than authenticate over an encrypted connection. All SSH traffic is encrypted. Users may be transferring a file, surfing the net, or executing a command. SSH ensures that all their actions are invisible to the outside world.

Although a standard user ID and password can be used to access SSH, public key pairs are more commonly used by SSH to verify the identity of hosts. While the local computer and the remote computer are authenticated independently of each other, individual users must still use their user ID and password or other authentication methods to connect to the remote host itself. A separate public key pair is created for each host in the communication to achieve this. Two public key pairs are required for a session. One pair for local vs. remote authentication and another pair for remote vs. local authentication.

Conclusion

SSH is a key tool for web hosting services that provides an unparalleled level of server management security. Its use is a must for anyone who values the security of their online presence. In our hosting service, we provide SSH support and options to ensure that your data is always safe. Secure Channel – for peace of mind and security in the online space.