How to Enable or Disable Shell Access for a Client Account in WHM?
Shell Access (SSH access) allows a client to connect to their hosting account via the command line using an SSH client. By default, shell access is disabled for most shared hosting clients for security reasons. You can enable it for specific clients who need it.
Enable Shell Access for a Client
- Login to WHM.
- Go to Account Functions → Modify an Account.
- Select the client's username from the dropdown.
- Click Modify.
- Scroll to the Shell Access option.
- Change the dropdown from Disabled to:
- /bin/bash – Full shell access (most common)
- /bin/jailshell – Restricted shell (safer for shared hosting)
- Click Save.
Shell access is now enabled. The client can connect via SSH using their cPanel username and password on port 22.
Disable Shell Access
- Follow the same steps above.
- Change the Shell Access dropdown back to Disabled.
- Click Save.
Jailshell vs Bash – Which to Use?
| Shell Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| /bin/bash | Full unrestricted shell access | Developers who need full access |
| /bin/jailshell | Restricted — cannot navigate outside home directory | Clients who need SSH but limited access |
| Disabled | No SSH access at all | Standard shared hosting clients |
Security Warning: Only enable shell access for clients you trust. Shell access gives them direct command-line access to their hosting files and can pose a security risk if misused.
If you continue to face issues, please open a create a request.
