SSH or Secure Shell is a fundamental tool for network administrators and IT professionals. It allows for secure access to remote servers, enabling users to execute commands and manage systems from afar. In this article, we’ll explore 10 crucial SSH interview questions and answers to help you ace your next interview and showcase your expertise in this vital technology.
Top 10 SSH Interview Questions
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What is SSH and its primary function?
- SSH stands for Secure Shell. It’s a network protocol that provides secure remote access to servers and other devices. It allows users to execute commands, transfer files, and manage systems remotely.
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What port does SSH typically operate on. and how can it be modified?
- By default, SSH operates on port 22. However, you can modify this port by editing the configuration file, typically located at
/etc/ssh/sshd_config.
- By default, SSH operates on port 22. However, you can modify this port by editing the configuration file, typically located at
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Differentiate between SSH and Telnet Why is SSH preferred?
- Both SSH and Telnet are network protocols used for remote access. However, SSH is significantly more secure as it encrypts all data transmitted, unlike Telnet, which transmits data in plain text. This makes SSH the preferred choice for secure remote access.
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Is it possible to log in to an SSH server without a password? If so, how?
- Yes, it’s possible to log in to an SSH server without a password using SSH key authentication. This involves generating a public and private key pair. The public key is placed on the server, while the private key is kept by the user. This allows for secure authentication without the need for a password.
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How can you grant specific users and groups access to an SSH server?
- You can grant specific users and groups access to an SSH server by editing the configuration file, typically located at
/etc/ssh/sshd_config. Within this file, you can specify allowed users and groups, effectively controlling access to the server.
- You can grant specific users and groups access to an SSH server by editing the configuration file, typically located at
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How can you add a welcome or warning message for users logging in to the SSH server?
- To add a welcome or warning message for users logging in to the SSH server, edit the file
/etc/issue. You can then add your custom message to this file, which will be displayed upon user login.
- To add a welcome or warning message for users logging in to the SSH server, edit the file
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How many protocols does SSH use, and why is it a good idea to turn off the older one?
- SSH uses two protocols: Protocol 1 and Protocol 2. Protocol 1 is older and less secure than Protocol 2. Therefore, it’s recommended to disable Protocol 1 in the configuration file to enhance security.
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How can you track unauthorized login attempts to the SSH server, including the date and IP address of the attempts?
- You can find the failed login attempts in the log file located at
/var/log/secure. You can then use thegrepcommand to filter the log for specific information, such as the date and IP address of the attempts.
- You can find the failed login attempts in the log file located at
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Is it possible to copy files over SSH? If so, how?
- Yes, you can copy files over SSH using the
scpcommand, which stands for “Secure Copy.” This command securely copies files between hosts using the SSH protocol.
- Yes, you can copy files over SSH using the
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Can you pass input to SSH from a local file? If so, how?
- Yes, you can pass input to SSH from a local file using the following command:
ssh username@servername < local_file.txtThis command will pass the contents of the local file to the SSH session on the remote server.
By understanding and mastering these 10 SSH interview questions and answers, you’ll be well-prepared to demonstrate your knowledge of this essential technology. Remember, SSH is a critical tool for secure remote access, and a strong understanding of its features and capabilities will make you a valuable asset to any organization.
Additional Resources:
Remember:
- Practice your answers to these questions to ensure you can articulate your knowledge clearly and confidently.
- Be prepared to discuss real-world examples of how you’ve used SSH in your previous experience.
- Show your enthusiasm for learning and your willingness to adapt to new technologies and challenges.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to impress your interviewers and land your next job in the exciting world of IT.
SSH Interview Questions and answers | Topic Based Interview | Tech Arkit
FAQ
What are the three protocols of SSH?
What are the 2 types of protocols in SSH?
What are the three types of SSH?
What is the purpose of SSH protocol?
Why is SSH important in a Linux based technical interview?
SSH, secure shell, is a network protocol used to access remote Linux machine. You can execute commands on the remote server by connecting using SSH protocol. SSH, it’s an important part in a Linux based technical interview. Both newbies and experienced techs can follow up this post for their interviews! It is very vast and interesting topic.
What is SSH protocol?
Question 1 : What is SSH? Ans : Secure Shell protocol is abbreviated as SSH. It is a secure and most commonly using protocol to access remote servers. This protocol uses encryption while transferring data between two hosts.
Is SSH a hot topic from interview point?
SSH is a very hot topic from interview point, of all times. The above questions would have surely added to your knowledge. That’s all for now.
What is the difference between SSH protocol 1 & Protocol 2?
Justify this statement. Answer : SSH uses two protocols – Protocol 1 and Protocol 2. Protocol 1 is older than protocol 2. Protocol 1 is less secure than protocol 2 and should be disabled in the config file. Again, we need to open the SSH configuration file and add/edit the lines as shown below.
