What is an OpenSSH server?

Overview

In many ways, we can remotely administer a Linux server. OpenSSH is one way we can remotely administer Linux servers.

OpenSSH is a networked suite of devices, say computers or networking utilities, which is based on the secure shell protocol that provides a secure channel over an unsecured network in a client-server architecture.

The purpose of OpenSSH

OpenSSH is a free version of secure shell protocol tools, used for controlling and transferring files between computers on remote instances. It ensures secure and encrypted remote operations between connected computers.

Architecture

The secure shell protocol is a cryptographic network protocol. It works with a client/server model in its operations. The secure connection is initiated by the client end of the connection. The server end awaits various incoming requests from the client end. The client end uses a public key to keep a secured connection with the server end of the connection and ensure it is properly connected. This process is done through authentication. This can allow the client end-gain access to the resources on the server end.

Advantages of OpenSSH

Security

Secure shell protocol provides adequate security for data and network resources, as they are valuable and should be kept safe with a strong algorithm. OpenSSH provides a strong security feature for a connection where it is applied. Some security advantages of OpenSSH are given below.

IP source routing

IP source routing is used to alter the path of a network signal when it fails. This is used for a good purpose in a network connection but can be apprehended by malicious hackers and used to make the receiver end system believe it is talking to the right source with no knowledge of the damage in place. This is a malicious attack that can be avoided by using OpenSSH when applied in the network set up.

DNS spoofing

OpenSSH can save a computer connection from DNS spoofing, it is a malicious kind of attack where a stranger inserts data into a domain name system server’s cache database. The name server is now forced to return an incorrect IP address so as to divert traffic to a third party computer. This could lead to loss of sensitive information.

IP address spoofing

OpenSSH can prevent IP address spoofing in a network connection. This is when a stranger creates malicious packets with a forged source IP address targeted at users. It hides the source of the malicious packets and appears with another computer’s identity just to gain the trust of the receiver, which in return unleashes harm on the user.

Data manipulation

OpenSSH prevents data manipulation. It happens when a stranger alters the data at intermediaries within a network route. This is mostly done on the router end, when data is near a gateway to its destination.

Easy management

OpenSSH enhances easy system management, with the provision of remote monitoring operations, and assured data security. It also enhances data confidentiality, which builds trust given that there will be no data bridge in the process.