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Connecting via SSH

Any user with a Palmetto Cluster account can log-in using SSH (Secure Shell) to access the terminal interface.

Instructions

  1. Open the terminal program for your operating system.

    PowerShell icon

    Search for Windows PowerShell from the Start Menu.

    warning

    Do not select PowerShell versions with "ISE" or "x86" in the name.

    Select the one that just says "Windows PowerShell" with no other prefixes or suffixes.

  2. At the prompt, type the following command:

    ssh username@slogin.palmetto.clemson.edu

    Replace username with your Clemson username.

    After typing the command, press Enter.

    PowerShell showing SSH command

  3. If this is the first time you have connected to Palmetto from this computer, you may see a prompt asking you to verify the host fingerprint.

    To ensure you are connecting to a legitimate Palmetto login node, you may verify that the fingerprint matches the one displayed below:

    SHA256:9Qrgsb4+4zlT6o8qmdnf67nmGBdBxr0fCHBrtzwgYD4

    Type yes and press enter to continue.

    PowerShell showing SSH host key message

  4. Next, you will be asked for a password. You should type your Clemson University password, then press Enter.

    info

    For security reasons, nothing will be displayed when typing your password (you will not see ***).

    PowerShell showing SSH password prompt

  5. As a secondary measure, you will need to authenticate with DUO Security. To learn more about DUO Security or register your device, visit the Clemson 2FA Portal.

    At the prompt, type the number of the desired verification option, then press Enter.

    Then, approve the DUO Push on your mobile device.

    PowerShell showing SSH DUO Security prompt

  6. If you were able to successfully log in, the message of the day will be displayed and a shell prompt will appear.

    PowerShell showing MOTD

Message of the Day (motd)

When you first log into Palmetto, you will be presented with a welcome message. This is called the motd, or message of the day. This message typically contains a quick introduction to Palmetto, links to user guides, and a list of useful commands. Information about upcoming maintenance will also be posted here.

Screenshot of a terminal showing the current message of the day.

warning

The message of the day changes periodically, so the version in the screenshot above may not be current.

Connect to Palmetto to see the latest message of the day.