Secure Shell definition
Secure Shell (SSH) refers to a cryptographic network protocol used in secure communication between devices. SSH encrypts data using cryptographic algorithms, such as Advanced Encryption System (AES) and is often used when logging in remotely to a computer or server.
See also: SFTP server, Port knocking
How Secure Shell works
Secure Shell works as a multi-layer protocol that consists of three components:
- The transport layer. It secures data in transit and ensures data integrity.
- User authentication. It protects the user’s connection to the server.
- The connection protocol. It establishes a secure connection between two networks.
Secure shell examples
- Remote login. Administrators commonly use SSH for remote logins to a server or a device on a network, such as a router.
- File transfer. SSH protocol can be used to transfer files securely between two devices on the network.
- Tunneling. SSH can be used to create a secure tunnel between two networked devices, allowing traffic to pass between them securely.
- Port forwarding. Since port forwarding is used to provide access to a server or application on a remote device, SSH is used to forward network traffic securely.
- Security. SSH can be used to secure file transfer protocols.
