Add an SSH host

You’ll need a reachable server with SSH enabled, its hostname or IP address, your username, and a password or SSH key. For example, [email protected]:22 means username alex, server 192.168.1.50, and SSH port 22. Use your own details.

Get ConnectBot on Google Play  before following the walkthrough. If you’re setting up a new server, start with the Raspberry Pi guide or Linux server guide.

Save a server so it is ready to open from the Host List.

Step by step

1. Add a host

   From the Host List, tap the plus button to add a host.

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2. Enter the connection details

   In Quick connect, enter your username, server address, and optionally port, like [email protected]. Remember, this is only an example host, so you must replace these example details with your own. Port 22 is the usual SSH port.

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3. Save the host

   Tap Add host to save the connection.

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4. Find your saved host

   The saved host appears in the Host List. Simply tap it when you are ready to connect.

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Connect and sign in

After saving, tap the host in the Host List to connect. On your first connection, compare the displayed host-key fingerprint with the fingerprint supplied by your server administrator before accepting it. Then enter your password, or use the SSH key authorized for your account on the server.

If you use a key, import your private key into ConnectBot’s key manager and select it for the host. The corresponding public key must already be authorized on the server. See SSH key algorithms and biometric protection for help choosing and protecting a key.

Once connected, try whoami to check which account you’re using. Keep special keys visible for easier terminal input. If the connection fails, check these common causes.