If you want to SSH into a VPS from your mobile device and run commands, you’ll need an SSH client app. There are several good options for both Android and iOS. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do:
1. SSH Client Apps for Mobile Devices
For Android:
- Termux: A powerful terminal emulator and Linux environment for Android. It comes with a lot of useful packages pre-installed, and you can install others via the package manager.
- JuiceSSH: A simple and intuitive SSH client for Android. It’s great for managing your servers, with features like key management, saved sessions, and more.
- ConnectBot: A free and open-source SSH client for Android. It’s lightweight and supports multiple sessions.
For iOS:
- Blink Shell: A great SSH and Mosh client for iOS. It has advanced features like split-screen, key management, and a full-featured terminal emulator.
- Termius: A popular SSH client with a sleek interface and advanced features. It supports SFTP, SSH keys, and provides a secure connection to your VPS.
- Prompt: A fast, reliable SSH client with great features, though it’s a paid app.
2. Setting Up the SSH Connection
Once you’ve chosen your app, the basic steps to connect are usually similar:
- Install the app from your app store (Google Play or App Store).
- Open the app and set up a new connection:
- Enter the IP address of your VPS.
- Provide your username (often
rootor another admin user). - Add the private SSH key if you’re using key-based authentication (or just your password if not).
- Save the session if the app allows it, so you don’t have to enter the details each time.
3. Running Commands
Once you’ve connected to the VPS via SSH:
- You’ll be able to run commands just like you would on your computer’s terminal.
- For example, you can run system updates, manage files, monitor processes, or even deploy code.
4. Other Tips:
- Security: Make sure you’re using SSH keys instead of passwords for better security. Some apps allow you to manage your SSH keys directly within the app.
- Screen size: On mobile, terminal apps can be a bit cramped, but you can often zoom or change the font size to improve readability.
- Mosh: If you’re on a less stable network, consider using Mosh (Mobile Shell). Some apps like Blink Shell support it, and it handles network disruptions better than standard SSH.
Lets Compare Blink Shell, Termius, and Prompt
1. Blink Shell
Best for: Advanced users, Mosh support, split-screen functionality, and a full terminal emulator.
Key Features:
- Mosh Support: Ideal for unreliable or slow networks. Mosh reconnects automatically if your connection is interrupted, which is super useful when using mobile networks.
- Full Terminal Emulator: It feels almost like using a real Linux terminal, with advanced features like custom keybindings, split-screen, and more.
- SSH Key Management: You can manage and store SSH keys easily, which makes connecting to multiple servers hassle-free.
- Split-screen: Great for multitasking, as you can run two terminal sessions side by side.
- Highly Customizable: If you like tweaking your setup, Blink Shell gives you a lot of control over the terminal experience.
- Open-source: Free to use, with in-app purchases for additional features.
Drawbacks:
- Can be a bit overwhelming for beginners.
- Less intuitive UI compared to some other options.
Pros:
- Excellent for advanced users.
- Mosh support for a better mobile SSH experience.
- Very flexible and customizable.
Cons:
- Not as intuitive for those who just want a simple SSH connection.
- Some advanced features require in-app purchases.
2. Termius
Best for: Users who want a sleek, modern interface with strong features like SFTP, multiple server management, and cross-platform syncing.
Key Features:
- SFTP Support: Allows you to transfer files easily between your local device and your VPS, directly within the app.
- Multiple Device Syncing: You can sync your connections, keys, and settings across devices (including Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS).
- User-Friendly Interface: Termius has a very polished, modern UI that’s easy to navigate.
- SSH Key Management: Termius lets you manage and organize your SSH keys seamlessly.
- Group Sessions: You can organize your hosts into groups and manage multiple servers in one place.
- Free & Paid Plans: The free version offers basic SSH connections, but for advanced features (like SFTP, syncing, and more), you’ll need a premium subscription.
Drawbacks:
- The free version is limited in terms of features.
- SFTP, syncing, and advanced features are locked behind a subscription.
Pros:
- Sleek and user-friendly design.
- Cross-device syncing.
- SFTP integration is perfect for file management.
- Good for users who need to manage multiple servers.
Cons:
- Advanced features are behind a paywall (though the free version is still functional for basic SSH usage).
- Can feel like overkill if you only need basic SSH access.
3. Prompt
Best for: Users who want a straightforward, no-nonsense SSH client with a focus on reliability and performance.
Key Features:
- Simple & Fast: It’s a lightweight app that does the job without unnecessary features.
- Key Management: Allows you to store and manage SSH keys directly within the app.
- Quick Connect: Easy to set up and use, ideal for those who need to quickly SSH into their VPS.
- Customizable Appearance: You can tweak the appearance of the terminal to suit your style.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Supports useful shortcuts for common tasks, making navigation quick.
Drawbacks:
- No Mosh Support: Unlike Blink Shell, it doesn’t offer Mosh for handling unstable connections.
- Paid: While it’s a one-time purchase, it may not be worth the price for users who just need basic functionality.
- Limited File Transfer Features: Does not have SFTP or similar file management tools.
Pros:
- Fast and reliable with a clean UI.
- Focused on providing an optimal SSH experience.
- One-time paid app with no subscriptions.
Cons:
- Lacks Mosh support, which can be a dealbreaker for some users.
- No built-in SFTP support for file transfers.
- A bit on the pricier side for what you get.
Recommendation:
- If you’re a more advanced user and need Mosh support for unstable networks or want a full terminal emulator experience with heavy customization, Blink Shell would be your best bet. It’s a great app for people who want complete control over their SSH experience and don’t mind a slightly steeper learning curve.
- If you need a sleek, user-friendly interface with the ability to sync across devices and transfer files (SFTP support), Termius is fantastic. It’s the most polished app and the best choice if you manage multiple servers or need advanced features like file management.
- If you just need something simple and fast, Prompt is a great choice. It’s straightforward, reliable, and offers a clean UI. However, if you anticipate needing more features (like Mosh or SFTP), it may feel a little basic in comparison.
If you’re mostly looking for a reliable, easy-to-use app and don’t need many advanced features, Prompt is great. But if you’re after more power and flexibility, Blink Shell or Termius would be the better options.
