How to Set Up SSH Access for WordPress Hosting

SSH gives you direct, encrypted access to your WordPress server for WP-CLI, file operations, and automation. This guide covers key generation across operating systems, importing the key into Sparkforge hosting, and connecting from the terminal.

Why SSH

• Run WP-CLI for scripted plugin, cache, and CDN management
• Encrypted, key-based authentication (no passwords)
• Direct file operations without FTP
• Automation and deployment workflows
• Per-device key management for teams

Generate an SSH key

macOS

1. Open Terminal.
2. Run ssh-keygen -t rsa.
3. Press Enter at every prompt to accept defaults (no passphrase needed).
4. Copy the public key: pbcopy < ~/.ssh/id_rsa.pub

Linux

1. Open Terminal.
2. Run ssh-keygen -t rsa and accept defaults.
3. Install xclip if needed: sudo apt install xclip (Ubuntu), sudo pacman -S xclip (Arch), or sudo yum -y install xclip (Fedora/CentOS).
4. Copy the public key: cat ~/.ssh/id_rsa.pub | xclip -sel clip

Windows

1. Open PowerShell.
2. Run ssh-keygen.exe -t rsa and press Enter at every prompt.
3. Copy the public key: Get-Content .ssh\id_rsa.pub | Set-Clipboard

Add the key to your hosting dashboard

1. Log in to your Sparkforge hosting dashboard.
2. Open Advanced Settings → Server Settings.
3. Toggle SSH Access on.
4. Open SSH Keys Manager and click Import New Key.
5. Paste your public key, name it (e.g. "Jane's MacBook"), and click Import.

Connect via SSH

1. Grab the host/IP and username from the dashboard.
2. Open your terminal.
3. Run ssh yourusername@yourhostip.
4. Type yes to confirm the host fingerprint on first connection.
5. Move into the WordPress directory: cd public_html.

Common WP-CLI commands

• List plugins: wp plugin list
• Clear cache: wp cache flush
• Purge CDN cache: wp cdn purge

Managing keys

Use the SSH Keys Manager to add keys for additional team devices, delete keys for lost or stolen hardware, and rotate keys periodically. Each key is independent — revoking one doesn't affect others.

FAQ