How to Use SSH in Windows Terminal

What is SSH?

SSH stands for Secure Shell. It lets you type commands on a faraway computer, such as your web server. Your words are scrambled on the way, so nobody can spy on them.

Windows 10 and Windows 11 usually include an SSH tool. You use it inside Windows Terminal or PowerShell. These are windows where you type commands.

What you need

• Your server address (an IP address or domain name).
• Your username and password.
• The SSH port. It is often 22. Check your welcome email or ask Hostvento support.

Steps

1. Click the Start button.
2. Type Terminal or PowerShell and open it.
3. Check that SSH is installed.

   ssh -V

   This prints the SSH version. If you see an error, go to the section below.
4. Connect to your server. Use your own details.

   ssh username@your-server-address

   This starts a secure connection as that user.
5. If your port is not 22, add -p.

   ssh -p 2222 username@your-server-address

   This connects using port 2222.
6. The first time, Windows asks about the server fingerprint. A fingerprint is like an ID card for the server. Type yes and press Enter.
7. Type your password and press Enter. No letters appear while you type. That is normal.
8. Type exit when you want to leave.

If SSH is not installed

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Apps, then Optional features.
3. Click Add a feature.
4. Search for OpenSSH Client and install it.
5. Close and reopen the terminal, then try again.

You can also use a free program such as PuTTY. It has a window where you type the address and port instead of a command.

Need help? Open a support ticket.

Quick recap

• Open Terminal or PowerShell from the Start menu.
• Run ssh username@address.
• Add -p when the port is not 22.
• Install OpenSSH Client from Optional features if needed.
• Type exit to disconnect.