Shell Access (SSH) allows users to connect to the server via the command line. In WHM, you can easily grant or revoke SSH access for individual cPanel accounts.
Warning: SSH access provides powerful server control. Only grant it to trusted users with technical knowledge.
Step 1 – Log in to WHM
Open your browser and go to:
- https://your-server-ip:2087
- Log in with your root username and password.
Step 2 – Locate “Manage Shell Access”
- In the WHM search bar (top left), type “Manage Shell Access”.
- Click on Manage Shell Access from the search results.
Step 3 – Choose the Shell Access Level
You will see a list of all cPanel accounts along with three shell options:
- Normal Shell – Standard SSH access.
- Jailed Shell – Restricted SSH access with limited commands.
- Disabled Shell – No SSH access.
Step 4 – Enable or Disable SSH Access
- Find the account you want to modify.
- Select one of the options:
- Normal Shell → Full SSH access.
- Jailed Shell → Restricted SSH access.
- Disabled Shell → Turns off SSH access.
- Changes are saved automatically.
Step 5 – Verify the Changes
- If enabled, the user can connect via SSH using their cPanel username and password.
- If disabled, the user will no longer be able to log in via SSH.
Security Recommendations
- Always use Jailed Shell instead of Normal Shell unless full access is required.
- Make sure all SSH users use strong passwords or SSH keys.