What are SSH credentials?
SSH stands for Secure Shell, and it’s a secure way to remotely access a site’s server. SSH credentials are the login details:
- Server address
- Port number
- Username
- Password
Why should I give you my SSH credentials?
With your SSH credentials, we’ll be able to troubleshoot faster if something goes wrong. VaultPress will perform better on your site. And, you’ll be able to use the one-click restore to get your site back.
Not all hosts or hosting plans allow SSH access, but if you have SSH credentials we recommend adding them!
SFTP and FTP vs SSH
If your host offers SSH access, then we recommend configuring VaultPress for SSH only. As noted above, VaultPress works best over SSH, and SSH also helps us better troubleshoot potential issues. You do not need to configure VaultPress with SFTP or FTP access if it has a working SSH connection.
How do I add my SSH credentials?
You can add your SSH credentials by logging in to your VaultPress dashboard, and going to the Settings page:
On the Settings page, click on the SSH button:
This will open the Settings screen.
Enter your Server Address, Port Number, Username and Password as provided by your host.
Click the Show Public Key button to reveal the VaultPress public key file. 
Copy that and add it to your server’s ~/.ssh/authorized_keys file. How to do this is explained below.
Some hosts or hosting services offer an easy to access option for adding SSH keys to a server. If your host or hosting service does not offer easy access, then you’ll need to upload our key manually. To do that:
- Copy our public key from your VaultPress dashboard. Keep a browser tab open at this location in case you need to copy the key again.
- Access your server through SSH either in a terminal (
ssh user@server), or your host’s console session, if one is provided. If you aren’t sure how to access your server through SSH your host will be able to help. - Once connected, navigate to the directory with your
authorized_keysfile withcd ~/.ssh. - If you’re unable to access the
~/.sshlocation then create the directory withmkdir ~/.ssh, followed bytouch authorized_keys. Then, typecd ~/.ssh.- If you create the directory and file you’ll need to add the correct directory and file permissions. To do that, enter
chmod 700 ~/.sshandchmod 600 ~/.ssh/authorized_keys
- If you create the directory and file you’ll need to add the correct directory and file permissions. To do that, enter
- Once you see, or have, an
authorized_keysfile, open it withnano authorized_keys - If necessary, copy our public key again, and then paste it into your
authorized_keysfile withcmd + v(macOS) orctrl + v(Windows or Linux). - Press
ctrl + X, followed byY, to exitnano. - Return to your VaultPress dashboard and click the Save button.
Once your SSH settings are saved, you’ll see this:
If you’re not comfortable going through the above steps, then please reach out to your hosting provider who should be able to help.
Where can I find my SSH credentials?
Here are instructions for enabling SSH and getting your SSH credentials for some popular hosts:
If your host is not listed here, or if you’re having any problems, please contact your host directly and ask them for your SSH credentials.
