The default SSH port for all servers is 22. Once you get administrative control over your server, it is recommended that you change the default port for security reasons. Bear in mind, however, that to do it, you will need root access.
To change the default port:
- Step 1. Use SSH to connect to your server and log in as root.
- Step 2. Open the sshd_config file using a text editor. This file is located in the “/etc/ssh” folder.
- Step 3. Identify the line specifying “Port 22” and change it to the port number you wish to use.
- Step 4. Save changes when exiting the file editor.
- Step 5. Restart the SSH service using the following commands
For CentOS/Fedora: “service sshd restart”
For Debian/Ubuntu: “service ssh restart”
Note: Do not close your SSH session window before testing if the new setting works. First, test the configuration by opening a new terminal window and attempting to log in with the new port.
