How to Install OpenSSH SFTP Server on Elementary OS Latest

OpenSSH is a free and open-source suite of secure networking tools that provides secure account logins, secure file transfers, and a secure remote shell. In this tutorial, we will show you how to install OpenSSH SFTP server on Elementary OS Latest.

Prerequisites

  • A terminal window on Elementary OS Latest.
  • Sudo privileges on your account.

Step 1: Update System Packages

Before installing OpenSSH SFTP server, it is recommended to update your system software packages. You can do this through the terminal by running the following command:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Enter your user password if prompted, then wait for the command to complete.

Step 2: Install OpenSSH Server

The OpenSSH server package provides the SFTP server software you need to transfer files securely. To install the OpenSSH server on Elementary OS Latest, run the following command:

sudo apt install ssh

Type 'y' and press Enter to confirm the installation of OpenSSH server.

Step 3: Configure OpenSSH Server

Once the OpenSSH server is installed, it will automatically start running. However, there are certain settings you may want to tweak to improve security.

  1. Open the main SSH configuration file by running the following command:

    sudo nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config

  2. Scroll down until you find the following line:

    #Subsystem sftp /usr/lib/openssh/sftp-server

  3. Remove the # sign at the beginning of the line to enable and activate OpenSSH's built-in SFTP server.

    Subsystem sftp /usr/lib/openssh/sftp-server

  4. Save and exit the file by pressing 'Ctrl'+'O' and then 'Ctrl'+'X'.

  5. Finally, restart the OpenSSH server to apply the changes by running the following command:

    sudo systemctl restart sshd

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we have covered how to install OpenSSH SFTP server on Elementary OS Latest. This will allow you to transfer files in a secure and encrypted manner. If you have any issues or questions, feel free to consult the OpenSSH documentation or seek help from the Elementary OS community.