TL;DR
- Use Remote Desktop for Windows VPS and SSH for Linux VPS.
- Use only the connection details supplied for the specific server and keep them private.
- Shared RDP is a standard-user workspace; Windows VPS provides administrator control.
How Do You Connect to a VPS?
You connect to a VPS using the method that matches its operating system: Remote Desktop for a Windows VPS and SSH for a Linux VPS. After the server is provisioned, use the connection details supplied for that server and keep those credentials private.
The connection path differs because Windows VPS and Linux VPS are different environments. Choose the section below that matches the plan you ordered.
Connect to a Windows VPS with Remote Desktop
Windows VPS provides an isolated Windows Server environment with administrator access. Use a Remote Desktop client on your device and enter the server address, administrator username, and password supplied for the server.
Before you start, confirm you have the server IP address or hostname, the administrator username, the assigned password, and a Remote Desktop client compatible with your device. Open the client, enter the server address, and sign in with those details.
What to Do After You Connect
When a Remote Desktop session opens, you are working inside the remote Windows environment rather than on your local computer. Install and configure only software that is appropriate for the selected plan and complies with the Acceptable Use Policy.
Because Windows VPS provides administrator control, you are responsible for the choices you make inside the environment: accounts, installed software, updates, configuration, and application security.
Connect to a Linux VPS with SSH
Linux VPS includes full root access through SSH. SSH is a remote-administration method that lets you work at the server command line. You need the server address, the login credentials supplied for the VPS, and an SSH client.
Replace your-server-ip with the address supplied for your VPS, then use the credentials provided for that server. If your organization uses SSH keys, follow its key-management process instead of sharing passwords.
ssh root@your-server-ipShared RDP Is Not the Same as Windows VPS
Shared RDP is a prepared Windows workspace with a standard user login. Windows VPS is an isolated environment with administrator access. If you need an everyday remote Windows workspace, Shared RDP may be the right fit. If you need to install, configure, and manage software yourself, choose Windows VPS.
Choosing the right access model before ordering avoids trying to make a standard-user desktop behave like a self-managed server.
Basic Connection Security
A VPS gives you an environment to manage. Maintain secure access habits and follow the security requirements of the software you install.
- Keep server addresses, usernames, passwords, and keys in a secure place.
- Never include a password in a support request or public message.
- Use the correct connection method for the selected operating system.
- Restrict administrative access to people who need it.
- Ask support before you order if you need help with backups, VPNs, firewall configuration, or a particular application.
If You Cannot Connect
First, check that you are using the correct server address, username, and password for the specific VPS. Confirm that you selected Remote Desktop for Windows VPS or SSH for Linux VPS. If the problem continues, contact support with the plan name and the connection error you see, but never send your password.
For help selecting the right access model, read What Is a VPS? and compare Windows VPS with Linux VPS.
FAQ
How do I connect to a Windows VPS?
Use a Remote Desktop client with the server address, administrator username, and password supplied for your Windows VPS.
How do I connect to a Linux VPS?
Use SSH with the server address and supplied credentials. Linux VPS includes root access through SSH.
Can I use Shared RDP to administer a server?
Shared RDP uses standard user access. Choose Windows VPS when you need administrator control to install and manage software.