The Ultimate Guide to Connecting to a VPS from a Mac (2026 Step-by-Step Tutorial)

Prerequisites: What You Need Before Connecting

Before you try to connect to your VPS from your Mac, make sure you have all the required details ready. Preparing this information in advance will help you avoid login errors and connection problems during setup.

VPS IP Address or Hostname

This is the main address used to access your server. This address is either a numerical IP address, such as 192.168.1.100, or a domain name, such as server.yourdomain.com. This detail can be obtained from your VPS provider’s control panel or signup email. It is also important to ensure that the IP address is correct and active before a connection attempt is made.

SSH Username

What your username is will determine how you log in to the server. In most Linux VPS systems, the default username for any administrator is root. However, this may be overridden in some systems for security purposes. The email for account setup will confirm the username for you.

SSH Password or Private Key

Authentication details are required to log in securely.

• Password authentication is commonly provided during the initial setup and is simple for beginners.

• SSH key authentication is more secure and recommended for long-term server management because it minimizes unauthorized access attempts.

If you are using a private key, make sure it is stored securely on your Mac and has proper file permissions.

SSH – Portnummer

The default port for SSH is 22, but most hosting services set their own custom port by default for added security. If your connection fails on port 22, double-check the correct port number within your host provider’s dashboard or server configuration details.

Stable Internet Connection

A good internet connection ensures that the sessions will not break, logins will not fail, and there are no incomplete file transfers, which may also occur during server configuration and updating.

Terminal or SSH Client in macOS

By default, macOS includes the Terminal application that will enable you to connect to your VPS using SSH, without any additional software installation. You can also install an SSH or SFTP client for easier handling of your server and files; this will provide a graphical user interface.

Basic Security Preparation

Prior to making a first-time connection, it should be contemplated which security settings are to be put into place, including updates, password changes, and key preparation for passwordless logins via SSH.

Once you are clear about all such details, you are ready to proceed with the steps to securely access your VPS using the Mac OS.

Method 1: Connect to Your VPS via SSH Using Mac Terminal (Fast, Secure, and Reliable)

Every Mac includes a built-in Terminal application, which provides direct command-line access to your VPS using SSH (Secure Shell). This method is widely used by developers and server administrators because it is lightweight, secure, and gives full control over the server environment.

Why Use Terminal for SSH

• No additional software installation required

• Encrypted connection for secure remote access

• Faster performance compared to most GUI tools

• Ideal for server configuration, automation, and troubleshooting

• Full control over Linux commands and system operations

Step 1: Open Terminal

Press ⌘ + Space, search for Terminal, and press Enter. You can also navigate to Applications → Utilities → Terminal.

Step 2: Run the SSH Command

Enter the following command in Terminal:

Example:

If your provider uses a custom SSH port, include the port flag:

Step 3: Verify the Server Fingerprint

During your first connection attempt, macOS will display a fingerprint verification message. This ensures you are connecting to the correct server and not an impersonator.

Type yes and press Enter. The server will be added to your known hosts list for future connections.

Step 4: Enter Your Password

When prompted, enter your VPS password. The cursor will remain invisible while typing—this is normal behavior for secure input.

After successful login, you will see your server prompt. You now have complete remote access.

Additional Terminal Tips

• Use clear to clean the screen

• Use exit to disconnect from the VPS

• Use history to view previous commands

• Use sudo for administrative tasks

• Update the server after the first login:

Method 2: Passwordless SSH Login Using SSH Keys (Advanced Security Setup)

Password-based logins are convenient initially but can be vulnerable to brute-force attacks. SSH key authentication improves security by using cryptographic authentication instead of traditional passwords.

Benefits of SSH Keys

• Eliminates repeated password entry

• Strong encryption-based authentication

• Reduces risk of automated login attacks

• Faster login process

• Ideal for automation scripts and CI/CD workflows

Step 1: Generate an SSH Key Pair on macOS

Press Enter to accept the default file location.
You may create a passphrase for additional security.

Generated files:

• Private key: ~/.ssh/id_ed25519

• Public key: ~/.ssh/id_ed25519.pub

Step 2: Upload the Public Key to Your VPS

This command automatically installs your public key into the server’s authorized_keys file.

If ssh-copy-id is not available, manually upload:

Step 3: Disable Password Login (Optional Advanced Security)

Edit SSH configuration:

Change:

Restart SSH:

Now only SSH key-based logins will be allowed.

Method 3: Secure File Transfers Using SFTP from Terminal

SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) uses the same encrypted connection as SSH and is ideal for managing server files securely.

Step 1: Start an SFTP Session

If using a custom port:

Step 2: Common SFTP Commands

Example upload:

Best Practices for File Transfers

• Compress large files before uploading

• Verify file permissions after transfer

• Store backups in separate directories

• Avoid uploading files as root unless necessary

Method 4: GUI Apps for VPS Management on macOS (Visual Interface Option)

Graphical clients provide an easier way to manage servers if you prefer a visual workflow instead of the command line.

Terminus

A modern SSH client that features saved connections, key management, and multi-server organization. This SSH client works for beginners and experts alike.

Cyberduck

A reliable file transfer app that supports SFTP, FTP, and cloud storage. The app’s drag-and-drop functionality is particularly suited for site management and backup.

Royal TSX

A remote management package that supports SSH, RDP, and VNC protocols. It is helpful to system administrators who need to remotely manage different environments.

Advantages of GUI Tools

• Easy server navigation
• Drag-and-drop file transfers
• Connection profiles and saved credentials
• Visual terminal interfaces
• Useful for users moving from a shared hosting service to a VPS

When to Use GUI vs Terminal

• Use Terminal for automations, scripting, and server configurations
• Utilize GUI tools for managing files and easy access
• Combine both methods for an efficient workflow

Final Thoughts

Accessing your VPS from a Mac system is easy if you understand all the possible methods for doing so and choose the one that works best for you. Although terminal-based SSH remains the fastest and most reliable method for total server control, utilizing SSH keys can add a security and convenience feature for day-to-day usage. SFTP, on the other hand, can offer a secure file management option, especially for those who prefer a graphical user interface for their activities.

As you manage the VPS, develop good habits such as using strong authentication, keeping your server up to date, and periodically reviewing access configurations to remain secure. Command-line optimization and proper server control tools will enable you to establish an effective and professional server workflow.

FAQs: Connecting to VPS from a Mac

1. Are there any special software that I would have to install if connecting to a VPS from a Mac?

Nope. It’s already included in macOS with the Terminal app; SSH support is built in. You can connect without installing anything. At the same time, you can use GUI tools if you prefer visual interfaces.

2. What is the default user for a new VPS?

Most Linux VPS servers have root as the default administrative user. Some hosting providers create a second admin account for security, so always check your setup email or dashboard before logging in.

3. Why can’t I see anything when typing my SSH password?

This is normal. For security reasons, Terminal doesn’t display anything while you type your password. Be assured your keystrokes are going in, even though you don’t see anything onscreen.

4. What should I do if the SSH connection fails?

First, ensure your IP address, your username, and your SSH port have not changed. Also, check that your server is running and that your firewall and/or hosting provider is not restricting access to SSH. Finally, check your internet connection and try to connect.

5. Is it safe to use password login for SSH?

Password login is possible, which is great for initial setup, but using SSH keys is far more secure. Once your server is set up, it’s a good practice to enable key-based authentication, which is more secure.

6. Can I use my VPS without the Terminal?

Yes. There are GUI clients like Termius or Cyberduck that can help connect to the server as well as manage files through the interface. But Terminal offers greater flexibility for complex operations.

7. What is the difference between SSH and SFTP?

SSH is used for remote command-line access and server management. SFTP is used for securely transferring files between your Mac and the VPS using the same encrypted connection.

8. How do I connect if my VPS uses a custom SSH port?

You need to include the port number in your command. For example:
ssh -p 2222 username@your_server_ip
Always confirm the correct port from your hosting provider.

9. Should I update my VPS after the first login?

Yes. Keeping your server up to date means you get the latest security patches and updates to the system. It is considered best practice to execute the updates immediately after the server’s setup is complete.

10. What are the most common beginner mistakes when connecting to a VPS?

Common issues might include the use of the wrong IP address, the use of the wrong username, issues with blocked SSH ports, the use of weak passwords, and the lack of proper handling of SSH keys. However, taking one’s time in checking the settings is helpful in preventing most issues from arising in the first place.

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