To enable SSH access at OBHost, you need to submit a support ticket with your public IP address. Our team will whitelist your IP for security purposes, allowing you to connect to your hosting account via secure shell. This typically takes a few hours during business hours.
Why SSH Access is IP-Restricted
Secure Shell (SSH) provides command-line access to your hosting environment, which is a powerful capability that requires extra protection. OBHost implements IP-based whitelisting to ensure only authorized connections from approved addresses can establish SSH sessions. This security layer prevents unauthorized access attempts and protects your account from potential threats.
Steps to Request SSH Access
Follow this simple process to get SSH enabled for your account:
- Visit a service like www.whatismyip.com to find your current public IP address
- Log into your control panel and open a new support ticket
- Clearly state your public IP address in the ticket
- Our support team will process your request and whitelist the IP
- You will receive confirmation when SSH access is ready
After confirmation, you can connect using any SSH client with your hosting credentials on the standard port (typically port 22, or as specified in your confirmation message).
Common SSH Access Scenarios
Working with Dynamic IP Addresses
Many residential internet providers assign IP addresses that change periodically. If you have a dynamic IP, you may need to submit a new whitelist request whenever your address changes. Check your current IP against the whitelisted address if you suddenly cannot connect.
Accessing from Multiple Locations
If you work from home, office, and other locations, you can request whitelisting for multiple IP addresses. Include all necessary IPs in your support ticket, or submit separate requests as your access needs evolve. We can also whitelist entire IP ranges if you have a static range from your organization.
Using VPN Connections
When connecting through a VPN service, provide your VPN's exit IP address rather than your local network IP. The server sees the VPN endpoint, not your actual location, so that is the address requiring whitelisting.
Security Best Practices for SSH
Once SSH access is enabled, follow these guidelines to maintain security:
- Use strong passwords: Create complex passwords that combine letters, numbers, and special characters
- Consider SSH keys: Key-based authentication is more secure than password authentication alone
- Keep credentials private: Never share your SSH login details with unauthorized individuals
- Monitor access logs: Regularly review login attempts and active sessions
- Update IP whitelist: Remove old IP addresses you no longer use to minimize potential access points
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my SSH connection keep getting refused?
The most common reason is that your current IP address does not match the whitelisted address on file. Your IP may have changed if you have a dynamic address assignment, or you might be connecting from a different network. Verify your current public IP and submit a new whitelist request if needed.
How long does SSH access activation take?
Most requests are processed within a few hours during normal business hours. Our team typically confirms activation via your support ticket once your IP has been successfully whitelisted.
Can I whitelist my entire office IP range?
Yes, if your organization has a dedicated static IP range, we can whitelist the entire subnet. Include the full IP range details in your support ticket, and our team will configure the appropriate access rules.
What should I do if my IP address changes frequently?
For users with frequently changing IPs, consider using a static IP service from your internet provider, or connect through a VPN service with a consistent exit IP. Alternatively, you can submit new whitelist requests as needed, though a stable connection point is more convenient for regular SSH use.
Our support team is available 24/7 to assist with SSH access requests and any connection issues you encounter. Visit our contact page or email support@obhost.org for help with enabling secure shell access to your hosting account.
