SSH Connection Refused by Remote Host
When trying to establish an SSH connection with a remote host, encountering the error message “Connection refused” can be frustrating and confusing. This error typically indicates that the server you are trying to connect to is either not running an SSH service or is configured to reject incoming SSH connections. In this article, we will explore the common causes of this error and provide solutions to help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
Common Causes of SSH Connection Refused Error
- Incorrect SSH Port: By default, SSH uses port 22 for connections. If the remote host is configured to listen on a different port, you will need to specify the port number in your connection command (e.g., ssh -p 2222 username@hostname).
- Firewall Blocking: A firewall on either the client or server side may be blocking the SSH connection. Check your firewall settings to ensure that port 22 (or the custom port) is open for SSH traffic.
- SSH Service Not Running: The SSH service may not be running on the remote host. Verify that the SSH daemon is running by checking the service status (e.g., systemctl status sshd).
- Incorrect IP Address or Hostname: Make sure you are using the correct IP address or hostname of the remote server in your connection command. Typos or incorrect information can lead to connection errors.
- Permissions Issue: Check the permissions on the SSH configuration files and directories on both the client and server side. Incorrect permissions can prevent the SSH service from starting or accepting connections.
Resolving SSH Connection Refused Error
Once you have identified the root cause of the SSH connection refused error, you can take the necessary steps to resolve it. Here are some common solutions:
- Verify SSH Port: If the remote host is listening on a non-standard port, specify the port number in your SSH command. Make sure the port is accessible through any firewalls.
- Check Firewall Settings: Ensure that port 22 (or the custom port) is open for SSH traffic on both the client and server side. Adjust firewall rules as needed to allow SSH connections.
- Start SSH Service: If the SSH daemon is not running on the remote host, start the service using the appropriate command (e.g., sudo systemctl start sshd).
- Correct IP Address/Hostname: Double-check the IP address or hostname of the remote server in your connection command. Verify that the information is accurate and free of any typos.
- Fix Permissions: Review the permissions on the SSH configuration files and directories. Ensure that the necessary files are readable and writable by the SSH service.
Conclusion
Encountering the “SSH Connection Refused” error may seem daunting at first, but with a systematic approach to troubleshooting, you can quickly identify and resolve the issue. By understanding the common causes and solutions outlined in this article, you can effectively troubleshoot SSH connection issues and establish reliable connections with remote hosts.