how to setup ssh on cisco switch

Setting up SSH on a Cisco switch allows secure remote management, replacing insecure methods like Telnet. 

Step 1: Access the Switch CLI

Before configuring SSH, connect to the switch using the console cable or an existing network connection to access the command-line interface (CLI).

Switch> enable
Switch# configure terminal

Step 2: Set a Hostname

SSH requires a hostname on the switch to generate encryption keys. Assign a descriptive hostname to identify the device on your network.

Switch(config)# hostname MySwitch

Step 3: Configure a Domain Name

A domain name is needed to generate the cryptographic key for SSH. Set a domain that matches your network environment.

MySwitch(config)# ip domain-name example.com

Step 4: Generate RSA Keys

SSH requires RSA keys for encryption. Generate a key pair on the switch with a recommended minimum length of 2048 bits

MySwitch(config)# crypto key generate rsa
How many bits in the modulus [512]: 2048

Step 5: Enable SSH and Specify Version

After generating the RSA keys, it’s important to enable the SSH server and specify version 2. This ensures secure, encrypted remote management and protects your Cisco switch from unauthorized access.

MySwitch(config)# ip ssh version 2

Step 6: Configure User Authentication

To secure SSH access, configure local user authentication on the Cisco switch. This ensures that only authorized users with valid credentials can log in remotely, enhancing the overall security of your network management.

MySwitch(config)# username admin secret StrongPassword123
MySwitch(config)# line vty 0 4
MySwitch(config-line)# login local
MySwitch(config-line)# transport input ssh

Step 7: Verify SSH Access

Test the SSH connection from a remote device to ensure everything is working properly. Use the switch’s IP address to connect.

ssh [email protected]