> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.vergeos-demo.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.vergeos-demo.com/knowledge-base/networking/enabling-system-ssh.md).

# Enabling System SSH Access

{% hint style="info" %}
**Key Points**

* SSH access to a VergeOS system is generally not needed because full access is provided from the UI.
* SSH should only be enabled for specific hardware diagnostics or other special circumstances.
* Although VergeOS employs many safety protections, opening SSH on any system can introduce vulnerability.
  {% endhint %}

{% hint style="danger" %}
**Important SSH Security Procedures**

* Always use source-controlled external rules to strictly limit ssh access to trusted addresses.
* Enable SSH access on a temporary basis; disable rules again when done with the session.
  {% endhint %}

## Steps to Enable SSH access

SSH Access rules are auto-created, and disabled, during system installation.

1. **Enable the core network rule:** Navigate to the Core network dashboard, modify the ***"SSH Access"*** rule, select the **Enabled** option and **Submit** to save the change. ![ssh-rule-core.png](/files/XwrbSm0Q4CTnW1YsqxQW)
2. **Add source control to the external network rule:** Navigate to the external network dashboard, modify the ***"SSH Access"*** rule to **configure specific source IP address(es) and/or address range(s) to tightly control access**.
3. **Enable the external network rule:** select the **Enabled** option and **Submit** to save the change.\
   **Ex. External Network Rule:** ![ssh-rule-external.png](/files/T4sAWfQEpqIEbg3wrDoz)
4. **Apply Rules** to both networks.

## Warning

{% hint style="danger" %}

* VergeOS is a specialized kernel, with a read-only overlay. Do not install additional Debian packages or applications as they can conflict with VergeOS operation and cause system malfunction or data loss. Additionally, extraneous programs are wiped at reboot.
* Check with VergeOS support before making any modifications at the command line. Issues resulting from unsanctioned command-line changes are the sole responsibility of the customer.
  {% endhint %}


---

# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.vergeos-demo.com/knowledge-base/networking/enabling-system-ssh.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.