Shell
The Client and the Server[edit]
A client-server model is a means of distributing resources between the provider of a service and a consumer of that service, the client. You're likely very familiar with this concept though less familiar with the name. One common example of a service provided in this manner is email. You, a user, can open an email client (for example, an app on your iPhone or Outlook on a PC) which then connects to a remote server. The server is responsible for providing several services, including receiving mail on your behalf from other servers, transmitting email on your behalf to others, and storing your email for your later use.
First Connection[edit]
Coder Merlin is a cloud-based server where we’ll be doing most of our exercises. To access Merlin, you’ll need a secure shell client.
If you’re using a Mac or a Linux based device you’ll probably have a built-in client that you can access from the terminal.
If you’re using a Windows-based device, you can access a terminal by installing Google Chrome, and then within Google Chrome typing “Secure Shell Extension” and then installing the extension.
Either way, you’ll need a connection string to access the server. The connection string will begin with your first name and last name separated by a hyphen, for example: john-williams. The rest of the connection string will be @ssh.codermerlin.com
For John Williams, the entire connection string would be:
john-williams@ssh.codermerlin.com
After you’re connected, you’ll be prompted to enter your password.
