Getting Started with Linux VPS: A Developer's Handbook

Introduction to the CLI

When you buy a VPS from AmanaFlow, you get a clean slate. No bloatware, just the OS (usually Ubuntu or AlmaLinux). The first step is connecting via SSH (Secure Shell).

ssh root@your_server_ip

The First 3 Commands You Must Run

1. sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y (Keep your system safe).
2. hostnamectl set-hostname your-brand-name (Identify your server).
3. timedatectl set-timezone UTC (Sync your logs correctly).

Basic Security Hardening

1. Create a Non-Root User

Running everything as root is dangerous. Create a new user with sudo privileges. adduser devuser usermod -aG sudo devuser

2. Disable Password Login

Passwords can be guessed or brute-forced. Use SSH Keys instead. Copy your public key to the server: ssh-copy-id devuser@your_server_ip

3. Configure a Firewall

Only allow the ports you need. ufw allow OpenSSH ufw allow 80/tcp (HTTP) ufw allow 443/tcp (HTTPS) ufw enable

Installing Your Stack

Whether you're a Node.js developer or a Python enthusiast, your VPS is your playground. We recommend using Docker for containerized apps, or Nginx as a reverse proxy to handle multiple applications on one IP.

View Managed VPS Pricing

FAQ

Q: What if I lock myself out?
A: AmanaFlow provides an "Emergency Console" in your dashboard that allows access even if SSH is blocked.

Q: Which Linux Distro should I choose?
A: For beginners, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS has the most tutorials. For stability-focused enterprises, AlmaLinux is the industry standard.