What is SSH? Why is it Necessary?
SSH has various functions and is an absolute necessity for the private operation of your website. It is an encrypted program that can be used for file transfer, secure command execution, and to protect the server from attacks. With Secure Shell or SSG, you don’t have to worry about security issues and can enter confidential information and device to device interaction without any fear of attacks or leakage of information.
With an SSH connection, you can have all of your data encrypted and safe from being accessed by anyone unauthorized. Apart from that, you can also have total control over your account and server using SSH. BlueHost is one of many web hosting services that support SSH, although they require SSH2 version (the other version available is SSH1) for better security and protection.
Merits of Using SSH
Enhanced Security
With the SSH program, your server is safe from attacks. It also keeps all your data safe and inaccessible from hackers, including personal information and password.
Encrypted File Transfer
With SSH, you can have a safe and secure file transfer that is cryptographic. SSH also ensures that all your files are authenticated, and any interaction among devices is secured.
Provides Full Control to Users
SSH ensures that users/ customers have complete control over their accounts and servers. This is an excellent feature from the customers’ point of view, as they provide more freedom to the user.
Various User Features Offered
Another great benefit of having a web host supporting SSH is the features available, including databases for control and log managers for the users. Apart from this, they also have the option to install and uninstall applications.
SSH, an essential security
feature for any web hosting solution, is also useful for interconnections among other network protocols.
How to Enable SSH Access on BlueHost
Now that we know why SSH is essential and that BlueHost provides technical support for SSH, the next step is to enable SSH on BlueHost, as it is not auto-enabled. Read on for detailed instructions regarding enabling SSH on BlueHost in 5 simple steps.
- Account Verification
To verify your BlueHost account, contact the support service/ team via email, live chat, or phone and validate your account by providing them the hosting details necessary. The verification process will be completed approximately an hour, upon which you can avail of the SSH access.
- Login to the BlueHost cPanel.
- From the cPanel, move to the Security option, and then choose SSH (or Shell Access).
- Proceed to the Manage SSH Access option, and select SSH Access Enabled option from the drop-down menu that comes up.
- Click the Submit button to confirm and apply your selections.
File Access on BlueHost Using SSH
Install PuTTy:
This is the first step to access files and SSH on BlueHost. PuTTy is a free application that lets you connect with remote systems using SSH. After installing PuTTy, launch the app, and fill in the host name.
Along with PuTTy, a private key was also downloaded. To select this option, proceed to view the LSH option under SSH. (SSH > LSH > Private key).
Choose the Data option, log in to your account using your username, and move to the Session section. Here, you will have to give an appropriate name to update settings.
Select the updated settings, under which you’ll have to select the Load option. Open this, and enter the password to complete the process. (Updated Settings > Load > Enter Password).