By ALETHEMES.COM / December 19, 2024 / Freelance, Plugins, Themes / 0 Comments

SSH (Secure Shell) is an essential tool for remotely managing your WordPress website’s server securely. By leveraging SSH, you can bypass the WordPress admin dashboard and directly interact with the server through a terminal interface. This is particularly helpful in emergencies, such as when you’re locked out of the WordPress admin area.

In this article, we’ll introduce 16 critical SSH commands every WordPress user should know, how they work, and how to use them effectively.

What Is SSH?

SSH, or Secure Shell, is a secure protocol that allows users to connect to a server remotely and execute commands directly. It is widely used for server management, troubleshooting, and performing backend tasks like transferring files, creating directories, or managing files without requiring access to a website’s graphical interface.

Using SSH requires a hosting account that supports SSH access, as well as a basic understanding of command-line operations.

How to Connect to Your WordPress Site Using SSH

Before using SSH commands, you’ll need to connect to your WordPress server. Follow these steps:

1. Verify SSH Access: Check with your hosting provider to confirm that SSH is enabled on your server.
2. Gather Credentials: Obtain your server’s IP address, port number, username, and password.
3. Connect to the Server:
   • Mac/Linux Users: Use the built-in terminal and run:bashCopy codessh username@server_ip_address
   • Windows Users: Install a tool like PuTTY, input your server details, and click “Open” to connect.

Once connected, you’re ready to use SSH commands to manage your WordPress site.

Essential SSH Commands for WordPress Users

Here are 16 must-know SSH commands categorized for ease of use.

1. pwd – Show Current Directory Path

The pwd command displays the full path of your current working directory. This is useful when navigating complex server structures.

pwd

2. ls – List Files and Folders

Use the ls command to list the files and directories in your current folder. Add options like -l for detailed information or -a to include hidden files.

ls -l

3. cd – Change Directory

Move between directories using the cd command.

cd wp-content/themes

4. mkdir – Create a Directory

Create a new directory in the current location:

mkdir my-folder

5. rmdir – Remove an Empty Directory

Delete an empty directory:

rmdir my-folder

6. cp – Copy Files or Folders

The cp command duplicates files or folders. Use -r to copy directories recursively.

cp style.css backup-style.css

7. mv – Move or Rename Files

Move or rename files and folders:

mv old-name.php new-name.php

8. grep – Search for Text in Files

Search for specific text within a file:

grep 'function' functions.php

9. find – Locate Files and Directories

Locate files or directories based on name, type, or size:

find / -name "style.css"

10. zip – Compress Files and Folders

Compress files into a .zip archive:

zip backup.zip wp-content

11. unzip – Decompress Files

Extract files from a .zip archive:

unzip backup.zip

12. history – View Command History

See a list of previously used commands:

history 10

13. tar – Create and Extract Archives

Use tar to create or unpack .tar.gz files.

• Create an archive:
  • tar -cvzf backup.tar.gz wp-content
• Extract an archive:
  • tar -xvzf backup.tar.gz

14. clear – Clear Terminal Screen

Clean up your terminal screen with the clear command:

clear

15. du – Check File and Directory Size

View the size of a file or directory:

du -h style.css

16. exit – Exit the SSH Session

To end your SSH session, use the exit command:

exit

Why SSH Is Essential for WordPress Users

SSH simplifies complex server tasks, making it an indispensable tool for WordPress administrators and developers. Whether you need to troubleshoot issues, manage files, or deploy updates, these commands provide a fast and secure way to interact with your server.

Final Thoughts

Learning these SSH commands can significantly improve your ability to manage your WordPress website efficiently. While some commands are straightforward, others require careful handling to avoid accidental data loss.

Practice these commands on a test environment before using them on a live site. With time, you’ll gain confidence and fully leverage the power of SSH for WordPress management.

Do you have a favorite SSH command? Share your experience in the comments below!