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Managing a WordPress website often means handling themes, plugins, updates, and troubleshooting. While most tasks can be completed via the WordPress dashboard, advanced users and developers prefer working with Popular SSH Commands for faster execution, automation, and better control. SSH (Secure Shell) allows you to access your server remotely and run commands directly in the terminal, giving you complete control over your WordPress hosting environment.

In this guide, we’ll explore the Popular SSH Commands every WordPress user should know. These commands help in speeding up website management, improving security, and reducing downtime. Whether you’re a beginner learning server-side management or an experienced developer handling multiple websites, SSH will save you time and effort.

What is SSH and Why Use It for WordPress?

SSH (Secure Shell) is a protocol that allows encrypted communication between your local computer and the server where your website is hosted. Instead of using cPanel or FTP for every change, SSH commands let you manage files, install updates, and troubleshoot issues in seconds.

If you’re hosting your site with Hostrago WordPress Hosting, you already have SSH access included in most hosting plans. With SSH, you get:

  • Faster file transfers compared to FTP
  • Secure server communication
  • Advanced control for WordPress installations
  • Easy automation of repetitive tasks

How to Access SSH for Your WordPress Site

  1. Enable SSH Access in Hosting Panel – Log into your Hostrago cPanel or control panel and enable SSH access.
  2. Use an SSH Client – Windows users can try PuTTY, while macOS/Linux users can use the built-in terminal.
  3. Login via SSH Command:
ssh username@yourdomain.com -p 22

Replace username and yourdomain.com with your hosting details.

Popular SSH Commands for WordPress Users

Here are the most useful and Popular SSH Commands you can start using today:

1. Navigate Through Files

cd public_html
ls -l
  • cd lets you change directories.
  • ls -l lists all files with details.

2. Check WordPress Version

wp core version

(Requires WP-CLI installed) – This shows your current WordPress version.

3. Update WordPress Core

wp core update

Quickly update WordPress without logging into the dashboard.

4. Manage Plugins

wp plugin list
wp plugin update --all

View and update plugins in seconds.

5. Manage Themes

wp theme list
wp theme update --all

6. Backup Your WordPress Database

mysqldump -u dbuser -p dbname > backup.sql

7. Change File Permissions

chmod -R 755 wp-content

Ensures correct permissions for WordPress directories.

8. Search and Replace in Database

wp search-replace 'http://oldsite.com' 'https://newsite.com'

9. Monitor Server Resources

top
df -h

10. Restart Apache or Nginx (for VPS Users)

sudo systemctl restart apache2
sudo systemctl restart nginx

When Should You Avoid SSH?

If you’re new to server management and unsure about commands, avoid running critical operations without guidance. A wrong command can break your website. Beginners can rely on cPanel or the WordPress dashboard, and gradually shift to SSH as they learn.

Final Thoughts

Using Popular SSH Commands is a game-changer for WordPress site management. From updating WordPress and plugins to managing files and databases, SSH provides flexibility, speed, and control.

At Hostrago, we provide reliable WordPress hosting with full SSH access, so you can take control of your site with ease. If you’re looking to grow your online presence with fast and secure hosting, check out our affordable WordPress Hosting Plans.

By mastering SSH, you’ll not only improve productivity but also ensure your WordPress site runs at peak performance.

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