Keeping your Linux VPS secure is one of the most important responsibilities for any server owner. When your server is exposed to the internet, attackers constantly try to guess your SSH password using automated tools. This is why relying only on password authentication is risky.

We always recommend disabling SSH password login and replacing it with stronger, modern authentication methods. These methods improve your server’s protection and make it harder for unauthorized users to access your VPS.

Why You Should Disable SSH Password Login

SSH passwords can easily be targeted by brute-force attacks. Hackers use bots to try thousands of passwords every minute. If your password is simple or reused, your VPS can be compromised within seconds.

Using stronger authentication methods gives you:

  • Better security
  • Higher protection from bots and hackers
  • No need to remember passwords
  • Access that is limited only to trusted devices
  • A more professional and safe environment for hosting
Secure Alternatives to SSH Password Login

Below are the most reliable and recommended methods you can use instead of traditional SSH passwords.

1. SSH Key Authentication (Most Recommended)

SSH keys are the most widely used and secure access method for Linux servers. Instead of a password, you use a private key stored on your device and a public key saved on your server. Only someone with the matching private key can log in.

Benefits:

  • Almost impossible to brute-force

  • No password required

  • Works on all Linux VPS platforms

  • Trusted by developers and sysadmins worldwide

This is the method we highly recommend for all vpshosting.lk users.

2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

You can add an extra layer of security by enabling two-factor authentication for SSH. Even if someone somehow gets your key or password, they must still provide a one-time verification code.

Common 2FA apps include:

  • Google Authenticator

  • Microsoft Authenticator

Benefits:

  • Additional security layer

  • Protects against key theft

  • Ideal for production servers

3. Firewall-Based Allowlisting (IP Whitelisting)

Instead of letting everyone attempt to connect via SSH, you can limit access to only your own IP addresses.

Using firewalls like UFW, CSF, or iptables, you can allow SSH connections only from trusted networks.

Benefits:

  • Blocks all unknown connection attempts

  • Reduces brute-force logs

  • Best for users with static IP addresses

4. VPN-Based SSH Access

Another advanced method is allowing SSH access only through a private VPN such as:

  • WireGuard

  • OpenVPN

  • SoftEther or etc...

In this setup, SSH is not accessible on the internet. Only VPN-connected devices can reach your server.

Benefits:

  • Very high security

  • Completely hides your SSH port from the public

  • Ideal for sensitive or business-critical servers

5. Changing the Default SSH Port

This is not a full security method, but changing the default port (22) to another port helps reduce automated attacks.

Example:

  • You can change your SSH port to any number between 1 and 65535.
    However, some ports are not recommended:

SSH Port Ranges

  • Well-known Ports (0–1023):
    These ports are used by common services like HTTP (80), FTP (21), and SSH (22).
    Do not use these for SSH because they are targeted often and can cause service conflicts.

  • Registered Ports (1024–49151):
    These ports are assigned to many applications by IANA.
    You can use a port from this range, but check first to make sure another service isn’t already using it.

  • Dynamic / Private Ports (49152–65535):
    These ports are the safest for a custom SSH port.
    They are not assigned to specific services, so the chance of conflict is low and attackers scan them less.

Recommendation

For best security and fewer conflicts, choose an SSH port from 49152–65535.

Benefits:

  • Reduces bot attempts

  • Adds small but useful security layer (Use this together with SSH keys or 2FA for best results.)

Final Thoughts

Disabling SSH password login and switching to stronger authentication methods is one of the most effective ways to secure your Linux VPS. Whether you choose SSH keys, 2FA, IP allowlisting, or VPN-based access, each method significantly improves your server’s protection.

At vpshosting.lk, we encourage all users to follow these best practices to keep their VPS safe, stable, and secured against modern cyber threats