How to Use Root Access for Managed VPS Servers: A Beginner’s Guide

Hey there! 👋
So you just got your VPS server from CreativeON, and now you’re wondering what root access is all about. Don’t worry — it’s not as scary as it sounds. Let me walk you through it in simple, real-world terms.

What Is Root Access in a VPS Server?

Imagine your VPS server is like a house.

The root user is the owner of that house. They can go anywhere, change anything, and do whatever they want. On Windows computers, this role is called Administrator. On Linux and other Unix-based systems (which most VPS servers use), this role is called root.

Root access gives you full control over your VPS server. That means the root user can:

• Read, change, or delete any file
• Install or remove software
• Start or stop services
• Create or manage user accounts
• Change how the server behaves at a system level

It’s powerful — and that’s exactly why it needs to be handled carefully.

When Do You Actually Need Root Access?

Here’s some good news: most people don’t need root access every day, and that’s completely normal.

You probably DON’T need root access for:

• Installing WordPress or other CMS platforms
• Uploading website files
• Managing email accounts
• Handling daily website tasks

You DO need root access for:

• Installing special software or server packages
• Updating system-level programs
• Configuring firewalls and security tools
• Changing server settings at a deep level
• Creating users with special permissions

If you’re new to VPS hosting, chances are you won’t touch root access very often — and that’s okay. This is also why many managed VPS servers limit or restrict root access to protect your server from accidental damage.

Managed vs Self-Managed VPS (Important Clarification)

At CreativeON, we offer both options:

• Managed VPS:
  We handle server updates, security, and stability for you. Full root access is usually restricted because you don’t need it — and restricting it helps keep your server safe and stable. In some cases, limited sudo access may be provided for approved tasks.
• Self-Managed VPS:
  You get full root access and complete control. This option is best if you’re comfortable managing Linux servers or have a system administrator.

If you’re ever unsure what level of access you have, our support team is always happy to explain.

How to Connect to Your VPS Server (Using SSH)

When you get your VPS from CreativeON, we send you an email with all your connection details. You’ll connect using SSH (Secure Shell).

Think of SSH as a secure tunnel between your computer and your server. Everything inside this tunnel is encrypted, which makes it far safer than older connection methods.

The usual process looks like this:

1. You receive your server IP, username, and password
2. You connect using an SSH tool
3. You’re now communicating directly with your VPS server

Popular SSH Tools You Can Use

You’ve got plenty of options here:

• PuTTY (Windows) – Lightweight, reliable, and widely used
• Solar-PuTTY – A more advanced version with saved sessions
• mRemoteNG – Simple and fast for multiple connections
• MobaXterm – Feature-rich with built-in tools and file browsing

If you’re on Mac or Linux, you’re already covered. Just open Terminal and use SSH directly — no extra software needed.

Switching to the Root User (Only When Needed)

Once you’re connected using your normal user account, you might occasionally need root privileges.

Command:

sudo su –

Enter your password when prompted, and you’ll become the root user.

💡 On some servers, you may see sudo -i used instead. Both commands work if your account is allowed to use sudo.

You’ll notice your command prompt changes — that’s your sign that you now have full control.

⚠️ Important: Use Root Access With Extreme Care

This part really matters.

Root access allows you to break your entire server with one wrong command. A typo, deleting the wrong file, or changing the wrong configuration can take your website offline instantly.

Even experienced professionals:

• Double-check commands
• Make backups before changes
• Avoid staying logged in as root

There’s also a security risk. If you’re logged in as root and run a program with a vulnerability, that program has full access to your server. That’s why staying logged in as root all the time is a bad idea.

The Safer Way: Use sudo Instead of Root Login

The smarter approach is simple:

• Stay logged in as your normal admin user
• Use sudo only when needed

It’s like borrowing the keys for one task instead of owning the whole house.

Even Better: Disable Root SSH Login Entirely

This blocks attackers from even trying to log in as root.

Open the SSH config file:

sudo nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config

Find:

#PermitRootLogin yes

Change it to:

PermitRootLogin no

Save the file and restart SSH:

• Ubuntu / Debian:

sudo systemctl restart ssh

• AlmaLinux / CentOS:

sudo systemctl restart sshd

This small step greatly improves VPS security.