How to Connect to a Linux VPS Using SSH from Windows CMD and Bitvise

2 months ago

Manage Server

2 minutes

Here’s a step-by-step tutorial on how to connect to a Linux VPS via SSH from Windows, using two methods:

🔹 Part 1: Connect to Linux VPS Using Command Prompt (CMD)

Open Command Prompt
- Press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.
Use SSH Command
Type the following command: ssh username@server_ip Replace:
- username with your VPS username (usually root)server_ip with your VPS IP address
Example: ssh [email protected]

Screenshot

Accept the Key
- On first connection, you’ll be asked: Are you sure you want to continue connecting (yes/no)?
- Type: yes
Enter Password
- When prompted, enter your VPS password.
- Note: The cursor won’t move — this is normal for Linux password input.
✅ You’re In!
- You now have terminal access to your Linux VPS.

Download and Install Bitvise
- Go to bitvise.com and install the SSH client.
Open Bitvise SSH Client
Fill in Login Details:
- Host: Your VPS IP
- Port: 22 (default for SSH)
- Username: root or your VPS user
Authentication
- Initial Method: password
- Password: your VPS password
Optional Settings:
- You can save the profile for future logins by clicking Save Profile As…
Click “Login”
Accept Host Key:
- On first login, a pop-up will show asking to accept the host key. Click Accept and Save.
✅ Connected!
- You’ll see:
  - A terminal window (like a Linux shell)
  - Graphical SFTP file manager (to upload/download files)

Enable root SSH login: Some VPS providers disable root login. Use a user like ubuntu and then sudo su after login.
Security Tip: Use SSH keys instead of password for better security.
Connection refused? Ensure your VPS has SSH enabled (systemctl status ssh) and port 22 open in the firewall.