SSH (Secure Shell)

SSH is a cryptographic network protocol for secure remote access, command execution, and encrypted communications.

What is SSH?

Secure Shell (SSH) is a cryptographic network protocol for operating network services securely over an unsecured network. It provides encrypted remote access, secure file transfer, and command execution.

SSH Authentication Methods

Password: Simple but less secure
Public Key: Recommended, uses key pairs
Certificate: Scalable for large environments
Multi-factor: Combined with OTP or hardware tokens

SSH Use Cases

Remote server administration, secure file transfer (SFTP, SCP), port forwarding and tunneling, and Git operations.

Common Misconceptions

"SSH is only for Linux" - Works on Windows, macOS
"Changing port improves security" - Minimal security impact
"SSH is perfectly secure" - Requires proper configuration