Some hosting providers like GreenGeeks make it easier to connect via SSH. You don’t need to generate .ppk files with PuTTYgen or run Pageant in the background. This guide walks you through how to configure and use PuTTY to connect via SSH using username and password or a standard private key.
- This tutorial is ideal for GreenGeeks or other providers not requiring .ppk. For hosts like SiteGround or InMotion Hosting, which do, you’ll need to use PuTTYgen to convert keys and use Pageant.
Step 1: Open PuTTY
- Launch the PuTTY app.
Step 2: Enter SSH Server Info
- Host Name (or IP address): your domain or server IP
- Port: usually 22
- Connection type: SSH (should be selected by default)
Step 3: Optional – Save Session Settings
- In the “Saved Sessions” field, type a name (e.g., “GreenGeeks SSH”).
- Click Save.
This allows you to quickly open the same session later.
Step 4: Configure Appearance (Optional)
- To make your terminal easier to read, you can tweak the look of the CLI:
a. Change Font Size
- Go to Window > Appearance > Font settings
b. Adjust Window Size
- Set the number of rows/columns in Window > Window
c. Set Preferences for Terminal Behavior
- Go through other submenus (optional) for scrollback, colors, etc.
Step 5: Save and Apply Settings
Once you’ve configured everything:
- Go back to the Session tab
- Select your saved session name
- Click Save again
Step 6: Connect and Login
- Double-click your saved session or click Open
- A terminal window will appear.
- Enter your SSH username
- Then enter your SSH password (note: typing will be invisible for security)
You’re Now Connected!
You’re now inside your server via SSH. You can start issuing commands, managing files, or deploying code.
Tips
- If you get a host authenticity warning, type Yes when prompted.
- If your login fails, verify that SSH access is enabled in your hosting dashboard and that you’re using the correct credentials.
- For hosts that allow key-based authentication, you can still upload a standard OpenSSH key (not .ppk).
