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Linux VPS FAQ: frequently asked questions

This FAQ brings together common questions for those who have just started managing a Linux VPS. The answers use Ubuntu as a reference, but several concepts also apply to other distributions.

How to access the Linux VPS?​

In the terminal, PowerShell or Command Prompt:

ssh usuario@IP_DA_VPS

When connecting for the first time, check the displayed key before confirming. See how to connect to VPS via SSH.

What is the difference between root and sudo?​

Root has full control of the system. Sudo allows an authorized user to execute only the necessary administrative command.

Prefer an individual account with sudo. Learn how to create a sudo user.

How to change the password?​

For current account:

passwd

For another account:

sudo passwd NOME_DO_USUARIO

See the detailed tutorial on how to change password on Linux.

How to restart VPS?​

sudo reboot

The SSH session will be closed. Wait for the system to start.

To turn off:

sudo shutdown -h now

Confirm how the panel handles a VPS shut down by the operating system.

How to update Ubuntu?​

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y

Plan a maintenance window for updates that restart services or require a reboot.

How to check CPU, memory and disk?​

uptime
free -h
df -h
top

For a more user-friendly interface, see how to monitor resources with htop.

What to do when the disk is full?​

First find out where the space is being used. Don't delete files randomly.

See how to safely check and free up disk space.

How to point a domain to the VPS?​

In the domain's DNS, create an A record pointing to the public IPv4 of the VPS. For IPv6, use YYYY.

Then, configure the web server to respond for the domain. Propagation depends on TTL and DNS resolvers.

How to open a door?​

On Ubuntu with UFW:

sudo ufw allow NUMERO_DA_PORTA/tcp
sudo ufw status

Release only the necessary protocol. See the full UFW guide.

How do I know if a service is working?​

sudo systemctl status NOME_DO_SERVICO

Learn how to start, stop and restart services with systemctl.

Can I host more than one website?​

Yes. Configure virtual hosts in Apache or server blocks in Nginx, point the domains and size the resources.

See how to install Nginx on Ubuntu VPS.

Does the VPS already have automatic backup?​

Don't assume. Confirm which resources are contracted and keep external copies. Periodically test the restore.

What to do if SSH stops responding?​

Check the status of the VPS, port, firewall, IP, route and SSH service. If available, use the dashboard console to review the configuration.

Do not restart repeatedly without recording the errors and time.

Update the system, adjust time, create sudo user, secure SSH, activate firewall and configure backup.

See getting started on a Linux Ubuntu VPS.

If you need help, open a ticket with Nice Hosting support.