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The ssh command in Linux explained

Updated 26 October 2026

The ssh command opens a secure session on another computer. It is one of the most useful commands for anyone using a live USB drive or a fresh Linux install.

Syntax

ssh user@host

Examples

Tip

The first connection asks you to confirm the other computer's fingerprint.

Keep learning

New to the terminal? Start with Linux terminal basics. You can try every command safely from a live session: see how to try Linux without installing it. Run man ssh in a terminal for the full manual.

Frequently asked questions

How do I see every option for ssh?

Run man ssh for the full manual, or try ssh --help for a short summary.

Do I need sudo to run ssh?

Not for your own files. You only need sudo when the command changes something owned by the system or another user.

Is it safe to practise ssh on a live USB drive?

Mostly yes, because a live session starts fresh each time. Be careful with commands that write to your internal disk, such as rm on a mounted drive or dd.

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