> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs-freessh.vercel.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Connection Troubleshooting

> Common connection issues and what to check first.

If a connection is failing, start with the checks below. In most cases, the issue is one missing detail in host, auth, or network settings.

## Connection failed

* Confirm the host and port are reachable from your machine
* Confirm SSH service is running on the remote server
* Confirm your selected auth method matches the server configuration

## Permission denied

* Re-check the username
* Validate your password, key, or passphrase
* For key files, use restrictive permissions: `chmod 600 ~/.ssh/id_rsa`

## Host key changed

* Treat this as a security event unless you expected a rebuild or key rotation
* Remove the stale key from Known Hosts only after you verify the change