Fix: SSH Connection Refused / Timeout on Your VPS

If SSH doesn’t connect, it’s usually one of these: wrong IP, wrong port, firewall rules, SSH service down, or network blocks.

Step 1: Confirm the VPS IP and SSH port

By default, SSH uses port 22 unless you changed it. If you changed the SSH port, you must connect using that port.

Step 2: Check firewall rules

If you enabled a firewall, confirm SSH is allowed. A common mistake is enabling firewall rules and forgetting to allow SSH first.

Step 3: Confirm the SSH service is running

If you have console access, verify the SSH service is running and listening on the expected port.

Step 4: Check failed login blocks

If you tried wrong passwords many times, security tools may block your IP. Wait briefly or remove the block via console.

Step 5: Try from another network

Some networks block outbound SSH. Test from mobile data or a different internet connection.

When to contact support

If the VPS is unreachable entirely (no ping/connection and no console access), contact Veerhost support with:

• VPS IP
• Time the issue started
• Any recent changes you made (firewall/SSH settings)