How to Connect to Your VPS (SSH or Remote Desktop)

After purchasing a VPS from Avalanche Hosting, the first step is connecting to your server so you can begin installing software, configuring services, or hosting applications.

The method you use depends on the operating system installed on your VPS.

Linux VPS → Connect using SSH
Windows VPS → Connect using Remote Desktop (RDP)

This guide explains both methods.

Connecting to a Linux VPS (SSH)

Linux servers are accessed using Secure Shell (SSH).

SSH allows you to securely connect to your server through a terminal.

This protocol is provided by:

OpenSSH

Step 1: Locate Your Server Details

From your VPS control panel, locate:

Server IP Address
Username (usually root)
Password

You will need these details to connect.

Step 2: Connect Using a Terminal

Windows

Windows users can use:

PuTTY
or the built-in Windows terminal.

Example command:

ssh root@your_server_ip

Replace your_server_ip with the IP address of your VPS.

macOS / Linux

Open your terminal and run:

ssh root@your_server_ip

When prompted, enter your server password.

Once connected, you will see a command prompt for your VPS.

Connecting to a Windows VPS (Remote Desktop)

Windows VPS servers use Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to provide a graphical interface similar to a normal computer.

You can connect using:

Microsoft Remote Desktop

Step 1: Open Remote Desktop

On Windows:

Press Windows Key + R
Type:

mstsc

Press Enter

This opens the Remote Desktop client.

Step 2: Enter Your Server IP

In the Computer field, enter your VPS IP address.

Click Connect.

When prompted, enter:

Username: Administrator
Password: Provided in your VPS panel

Once logged in, you will see the Windows desktop of your VPS.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

Unable to Connect via SSH

Check that:

The IP address is correct
Port 22 is open
SSH is enabled on the server

Remote Desktop Connection Failed