How to Set a Default Directory When SSHing into Your VPS

Introduction

When you log into your VPS via SSH, you might want to start in a specific directory rather than your home directory. This is especially useful for developers and system administrators who frequently work in a particular project folder.

In this tutorial, we'll guide you through how to set a default directory when you SSH into your VPS.

Prerequisites

• Access to your VPS via SSH
• Basic knowledge of the command line
• A text editor installed on your VPS (nano, vim, etc.)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: SSH into Your VPS

ssh your-username@your-vps-ip

Replace your-username with your SSH username and your-vps-ip with your VPS IP address.

Step 2: Determine Your Shell

Check which shell you're using:

echo $SHELL

• If the output includes /bash, you're using bash.
• If it includes /zsh, you're using zsh.

Step 3: Edit the Shell Configuration File

Depending on your shell, you'll edit a different file:

> Example below assumes you're using bash (.bashrc).

Open the .bashrc file:

nano ~/.bashrc

_or_

vim ~/.bashrc

Add the cd Command at the End of the File:

cd /home/examplewebsite/htdocs/examplewebsite.com

This command will change the directory automatically when you log in via SSH.

Save and Exit:

• If using nano:

Press CTRL + O → Enter → CTRL + X.

• If using vim:

Press ESC, then type :wq → Enter.

Step 4: Apply the Changes

Apply the changes immediately without logging out:

source ~/.bashrc

_or just log out and back in._

Step 5: Verify the Configuration

Logout and reconnect via SSH:

exit
ssh your-username@your-vps-ip

You should now start in the /home/examplewebsite/htdocs/examplewebsite.com directory.

Troubleshooting

• Permission Issues:

Make sure your SSH user has permission to access the specified directory.

• Directory Existence:

Double-check that the directory exists.

• Shell Type:

Ensure you're editing the correct configuration file for your shell (.bashrc, .zshrc, etc.).

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can set a default directory when SSHing into your VPS, streamlining your workflow and saving time navigating to your project folders. This simple tweak can greatly enhance your efficiency when working on your server.