> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.constellationnetwork.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.constellationnetwork.io/run-a-node/references/ssh-remote-access.md). # SSH Remote Access Secure Shell Concept and Guides ## SSH Keys Explained *** ### **What Are SSH Keys?** When a **Node Operator (Administrator)** builds a **VPS (Virtual Private Server)** in the cloud, they need a **secure method** to access and administer that instance. This is typically done by connecting to the VPS from a **local machine** (e.g., a laptop or desktop) over the Internet. *** ### **Why Do We Use SSH?** Data traveling across the Internet is vulnerable to interception by malicious actors who may attempt to **steal**, **monitor**, or **manipulate** the connection. To defend against this, we use **encryption** to create a **secure tunnel** between the local and remote systems. *** ### **How SSH Keys Work** SSH keys are a **pair of cryptographic keys**: * A **public key**, which is shared with the remote server * A **private key**, which is kept securely on your local machine These keys are used to: * **Authenticate your identity** * **Establish an encrypted connection** * **Securely transmit commands and data** *** ### Create SSH keys {% content-ref url="/pages/StWxkojAivRRSCSubSn6" %} [Create SSH Keys](/run-a-node/references/ssh-remote-access/create-ssh-keys.md) {% endcontent-ref %} *** ### **Encryption in Action** In the context of connecting to a cloud VPS: * The **public key** (stored on the VPS) is used to **encrypt** the data * The **private key** (on your local machine) is used to **decrypt** it This ensures that **only your local machine**—with the private key—can access and interpret the data sent by the server. *** > 🛡️ SSH key authentication is significantly **more secure** than using a password alone and is the **standard method** for managing Constellation Network nodes in cloud environments. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters: ``` GET https://docs.constellationnetwork.io/run-a-node/references/ssh-remote-access.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.