Open a server's console

The console gives you direct screen-and-keyboard access to a server, for the times when you can't reach it any other way. It's for anyone managing servers in InfraNest who needs a backup way in.

Overview

• The console connects to your server the way a monitor and keyboard would, so it works even when nothing on the server is listening on the network.
• It's the way in when SSH won't connect, the network is misconfigured, or the server won't finish booting.
• Availability depends on your provider — not every provider supports it.

When you need it

Use the console when the normal route is closed:

• SSH refuses connections, or you've locked yourself out with a firewall rule.
• The server won't finish booting.
• You changed the network configuration and lost the connection.
• You need to see boot messages or use single-user mode.

Open the console

1. Go to Servers and open the server.
2. Open the actions menu (⋯) and choose Console.
3. InfraNest requests access from your provider and opens the console.

If you'd rather use your own tool, the Console access panel gives you what you need: a WebSocket URL for a browser terminal, or a VNC host, VNC port and password for a VNC client. Each has a Copy button.

NoteConsole credentials are temporary. They're requested when you open the console and expire shortly after. If the connection drops, request access again rather than reusing an old URL.

Good to know

• Availability depends on the provider. The console is offered where the provider supports it — on others, the menu item won't appear.
• You still need to log in. The console gives you the screen; your normal server login still applies.
• It's recorded. Opening the console is written to the audit log as Console accessed, so your team can see who connected and when.

Troubleshooting

• "Failed to request console access" — usually the provider refusing. Check the integration is healthy on the Integrations page, then try again.
• The console is blank — the server may be powered off. Power it on and reopen.
• Keyboard input does nothing — select inside the console area first so it takes focus.

TipIf you're locked out by your own firewall rule, the console lets you fix it without needing SSH at all.