Accessing Raspberry Pi through SSH

SSH stands for Secure Shell. It is a secure channel created over an insecure network. The channel consists of a server and a client. This channel uses public key cryptography and can be used for secure transmission of passwords, remote log in, command execution etc..

SSH can be used when we cannot physically access the Raspberry Pi due to various reasons like the USB ports are engaged or the board is in a remote location. This method also minimizes hassle of using keyboard and mouse.

For accessing Raspberry Pi through SSH just connect it to a network using the on-board Ethernet port or using a USB Wi-Fi adapter. Then find the IP Address of Pi from the network router or from Pi itself by running ‘sudo ifconfig’ command from the terminal.

Linux and Mac OS users

  • Open the terminal and type
ssh <ip address of your Rpi> -l <username of RPi user you set up previously>
  • This is what happens

[root@dellinsp ~]$ ssh 192.168.0.11 -l pi

The authenticity of host ‘192.168.0.11 (192.168.0.11)' can't be established.

RSA key fingerprint is 26:a4:a1:ab:c2:ff:50:99:d7:e1:49:6e:f2:90:fb:90.

Are you sure you want to continue connecting (yes/no)? yes

Warning: Permanently added ‘192.168.0.11' (RSA) to the list of known hosts.

[email protected]'s password:

Linux raspberrypi 3.6.11+ #456 PREEMPT Mon May 20 17:42:15 BST 2013 armv6l

The programs included with the Debian GNU/Linux system are free software;

the exact distribution terms for each program are described in the

individual files in /usr/share/doc/*/copyright.

Debian GNU/Linux comes with ABSOLUTELY NO WARRANTY, to the extent

permitted by applicable law.

pi@raspberrypi ~ $

Windows users

You have to install an SSH Client, Putty is one of the most commonly used tool which can be downloaded here.

  • Open Putty after installing
  • Enter the IP Address of the Pi and SSH Port (which is usually 22)
  • Select Connection Type : SSH and Click Open

PUTTY screen

  • Click yes on the warning window usually displayed when connecting to new devices.

PUTTY warning

  • Login using username and password. (default username: pi and password: raspberry)

Pi login screen

You have successfully logged into Raspberry Pi using ssh.

Pi terminal

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Accessing Raspberry Pi through SSH


About The Author

Muhammad Bilal

I am highly skilled and motivated individual with a Master's degree in Computer Science. I have extensive experience in technical writing and a deep understanding of SEO practices.

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