Raspberry Pi Ssh Port A Comprehensive Guide To Secure Remote Access

Ed Bradley

2 min read

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27-03-2025

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The Raspberry Pi's versatility extends far beyond its small size. Its ability to connect remotely via SSH (Secure Shell) is a key feature, allowing for control and management from anywhere with an internet connection. However, this convenience necessitates a strong focus on security. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of securing your Raspberry Pi's SSH port.

Understanding SSH and Port 22

SSH uses port 22 by default to establish a secure connection between your local machine and the Raspberry Pi. This connection is encrypted, protecting your commands and data from eavesdropping. However, the default port is a well-known target for malicious actors. Changing it is a crucial first step in enhancing security.

Changing the SSH Port

Modifying the SSH port requires editing the SSH configuration file:

1. Access the configuration file: Connect to your Raspberry Pi via SSH (if you haven't changed the port yet, use port 22). Then, use the following command: sudo nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config

2. Locate the Port directive: Find the line containing Port 22.

3. Change the port number: Replace 22 with a non-standard port number (e.g., 2222, 6000, etc.). Choose a number above 1024 to avoid common system ports. Remember this new port number, as you'll need it for future connections.

4. Save and close the file: Press Ctrl + X, then Y to save, and Enter to confirm.

5. Restart the SSH service: To apply the changes, restart the SSH daemon using the command: sudo systemctl restart ssh

Firewall Configuration (UFW)

Uncomplicated Firewall (UFW) is a user-friendly firewall included in most Raspberry Pi OS installations. Configuring UFW to allow only SSH traffic through your new port provides an additional layer of protection.

1. Enable UFW: sudo ufw enable

2. Allow SSH traffic: Replace 2222 with your chosen port number: sudo ufw allow 2222/tcp

3. Check the status: sudo ufw status This will display the active firewall rules.

Strong Passwords and SSH Keys

While changing the port significantly improves security, it's not enough. Strong passwords and SSH keys are essential:

• Strong Passwords: Use a complex password that is at least 12 characters long, containing uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid easily guessable passwords.

• SSH Keys: SSH keys offer a more secure alternative to passwords. They use public and private key cryptography, eliminating the need to transmit passwords across the network. Generating and using SSH keys is strongly recommended. Consult online resources for detailed instructions on SSH key generation and configuration.

Regular Updates and Monitoring

Regularly updating your Raspberry Pi's operating system is crucial for patching security vulnerabilities. Additionally, monitoring your system logs for suspicious activity can help detect potential breaches early on.

Conclusion

Securing your Raspberry Pi's SSH access involves a multi-layered approach. By changing the default port, configuring a firewall, utilizing strong passwords or SSH keys, and maintaining regular updates, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Remember to always prioritize security best practices when managing your Raspberry Pi remotely.