Easily Edit Linux Files from Windows/Mac via SSH

Abstract

Editing Linux files from a Windows or Mac system can be easily achieved using Visual Studio Code (VS Code) and its Remote - SSH extension. Here’s a step-by-step guide to set this up.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Install Visual Studio Code

   • Download and install Visual Studio Code from here.

2. Install the Remote - SSH Plugin

   • Open Visual Studio Code.
   • Click on the 'Extensions' icon in the navigation bar on the left.
   • Search for "Remote - SSH" and click 'Install'.

3. Install the YAML Plugin (Optional)

   • If you plan on editing YAML files, it can be useful to install the "YAML" plugin.
   • Search for "YAML" in the Extensions view and install it.

Connect to a Remote Server via SSH

1. Open Remote Explorer

   • Click on the 'Remote Explorer' icon in the navigation bar on the left.

2. Add a New Remote Session

   • Click on the plus icon to add a new remote session.
     

   • Fill in the connection details:

     ssh <username>@<ip address of your server>
     

   • Press Enter, and then press Enter again to confirm the save location of the SSH configuration.

3. View and Connect to the Remote Session

   • You should see the remote session appear in the list. If it doesn’t appear immediately, try closing and reopening Visual Studio Code.
     
   • Click the arrow next to your remote session to connect.
     
   • Follow the prompts and enter your password when prompted.
     

4. Open a Folder on Your Server

   • In the Explorer tab on the left, you can open a folder on your remote server that you wish to edit.

Now you are all set to edit your Linux files from your Windows or Mac system using Visual Studio Code!