How to Connect to a Linux VPS via SSH from Windows and macOS

Quick answer: Connect to a Linux VPS over SSH with ssh root@your-server-ip from the macOS or Linux terminal or Windows PowerShell (add -p for a custom port). PuTTY works as a graphical Windows client. Connection refused means SSH or the firewall is blocking; timed out means a wrong IP or network block.

SSH is how you administer a Linux VPS from your own computer. Connecting is straightforward once you have the server IP, a username, and the password or key. Here is how to connect from both Windows and macOS.

What you need

Server IP:  your VPS IPv4 address
Username:   usually "root", or a sudo user
Port:       22 (unless your server uses a custom SSH port)

Connect from macOS or Linux

Both include an SSH client in the terminal. Open Terminal and run:

ssh root@your-server-ip

The first time, you will be asked to confirm the server fingerprint - type yes. Enter the password when prompted (it will not display as you type). If your server uses a custom port, add -p:

ssh -p 2222 root@your-server-ip

Connect from Windows

Windows 10 and 11 include the same client - open PowerShell or Command Prompt and use the identical ssh root@your-server-ip command. If you prefer a graphical client, PuTTY works well: enter the IP, set the port, and click Open.

Common connection problems

A "Connection refused" usually means the SSH service is not running or the firewall is blocking the port. A "Connection timed out" points to the wrong IP or a network/firewall block. "Permission denied" means the username, password, or key is wrong - confirm you are using the right account.

A safer next step

Once you can log in, switch from passwords to SSH keys and disable password login (covered in the related article) - it is both more convenient and far more secure against brute-force attempts.

Frequently asked questions

Does Windows include an SSH client?
Yes - Windows 10 and 11 include ssh in PowerShell and Command Prompt.

Why does the password not show as I type?
That is normal SSH behavior; the characters are hidden for security - just type and press Enter.

Every SoftSys managed Linux VPS comes with secure SSH access configured, and our team can set up key-based logins and a hardened SSH config for you as part of onboarding.