Distributions
Which Linux distributions can I install?
Which Linux distributions can I install?
Ubuntu, Debian, AlmaLinux, Rocky Linux, CentOS, Fedora, Oracle Linux, Alpine Linux, Arch Linux and openSUSE, plus FreeBSD, each in several versions. The current list is on Linux distributions.
Can I switch to another distribution later?
Can I switch to another distribution later?
Yes. Use the server’s Reinstall tab to install any other distribution, or Windows. A reinstall erases the disk, so copy your data first. See Reinstall your server.
Can I get a desktop on Linux?
Can I get a desktop on Linux?
Yes. Some versions come with a desktop, such as Debian with GNOME or XFCE, and AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux Desktop. For a full Windows desktop, use Windows RDP.
Can I install a distribution that isn't listed?
Can I install a distribution that isn't listed?
Yes. Mount your own ISO in the advanced Server Panel, or open a ticket and we can mount a custom ISO for you. See Advanced Server Panel.
Access
How do I connect to my Linux VPS?
How do I connect to my Linux VPS?
Over SSH as
root. The server’s Overview tab shows the ready-made command, for example ssh root@203.0.113.10. See Connect over SSH.Can I sign in with SSH keys?
Can I sign in with SSH keys?
Yes. Save your public keys on the SSH keys page of the Billing Portal and select them when you deploy or reinstall. Keys you add later only apply to new installs; on a running server, add them to
/root/.ssh/authorized_keys. See Manage SSH keys.I lost my root password
I lost my root password
Click Reset next to Password on the server’s Overview tab. The new password appears on screen and your files stay as they are. The server must be running. See Reset server password.
I locked myself out with a firewall rule
I locked myself out with a firewall rule
Click Console on the server’s page to open its screen in your browser, sign in as
root and fix the rule there. The console doesn’t depend on your server’s network settings.Is there a rescue mode?
Is there a rescue mode?
Yes, in the advanced Server Panel in the classic client area. It boots a temporary rescue system so you can repair the disk or recover files. See Advanced Server Panel.
Running services
Is the Linux VPS managed?
Is the Linux VPS managed?
No. You install, update and secure the software. We keep the hardware, network and virtualization running. See User responsibilities.
Can I run Docker?
Can I run Docker?
Yes. KVM gives you a full kernel, so Docker, Docker Compose and other container tools work as on any Linux machine. See Docker Compose deployments.
Can I host a website or control panel?
Can I host a website or control panel?
Yes. You can run Nginx, Apache, databases or a hosting panel such as cPanel, CyberPanel or Coolify. Third-party panel licenses are your responsibility. See Host a website with Nginx.