PuTTY is a free SSH client that allows you to securely connect to your hosting server and manage your account using the command line. This can be useful for advanced tasks such as managing files, running scripts, or working with Git.

This guide explains how to connect to your cPanel hosting account using PuTTY.

What Is PuTTY?

PuTTY is a terminal application for Windows that allows you to connect to servers using SSH (Secure Shell).

Using SSH, you can:

• Access your hosting account through the command line

• Manage files and directories

• Run server commands

• Work with Git repositories

• Manage website scripts

Note: SSH access must be enabled on your hosting account before you can connect.

Step 1: Download and Install PuTTY

1. Visit the official PuTTY website.

2. Download the latest version of PuTTY for Windows.

3. Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.

4. Open the PuTTY application after installation.

Step 2: Gather Your SSH Login Details

Before connecting, you will need the following information:

• Server Hostname: yourdomain.com or your server hostname

• Username: Your cPanel username

• Password: Your cPanel password

• Port: 22

If you are unsure of your server hostname, you can find it in cPanel or your hosting welcome email.

Step 3: Configure the PuTTY Connection

1. Open PuTTY.

2. In the Host Name (or IP address) field, enter your server hostname.

Example:

yourdomain.com

3. Set the Port to:

22

4. Ensure the Connection Type is set to SSH.

Step 4: Connect to the Server

1. Click Open.

2. If this is your first time connecting, PuTTY will display a security alert asking you to trust the server.

3. Click Accept or Yes.

A terminal window will open.

Step 5: Log in to Your Account

When prompted, enter your login details.

Example:

login as: your_cpanel_username

Then enter your cPanel password.

Note: Your password will not be visible while typing.

Once logged in, you will have command-line access to your hosting account.

Common SSH Commands

Here are some basic commands you may use after logging in:

List files in the current directory

ls

Change directories

cd foldername

View the current directory

pwd

Create a new folder

mkdir foldername

Security Tips

• Never share your SSH login credentials.

• Use strong passwords for your cPanel account.

• Disconnect your session when finished by typing:

exit

• Only run commands you understand, as incorrect commands may affect your website.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

If PuTTY cannot connect:

• Verify that SSH access is enabled for your hosting account.

• Confirm the hostname and port number are correct.

• Check that your cPanel username and password are correct.

• Ensure your firewall allows outbound connections on port 23790

If you continue to experience issues connecting through PuTTY, please contact our support team and include any error messages or screenshots so we can assist you further.