How to Use SSH Websocket (WS) on Android

Using SSH over WebSocket (WS) on Android allows for secure and encrypted communication between your Android device and a remote server. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up and use SSH over WebSocket on Android:

Prerequisites:

1. Android Device:
   • Ensure that you have an Android device with internet connectivity.
2. SSH Server:
   • You need access to an SSH server. You can set up your own server or use a third-party SSH service.
3. WebSocket Server:
   • Similarly, you need access to a WebSocket server. This could be the same server as your SSH server or a separate one.

Steps:

1. Install an SSH Client App:
   • Head to the Google Play Store on your Android device and install an SSH client app. Examples include Termius, JuiceSSH, or ConnectBot.
2. Install WebSocket Client:
   • Additionally, you’ll need a WebSocket client. Apps like WebSocket Test or Simple WebSocket Client can be found on the Play Store.
3. Open SSH Client:
   • Launch your SSH client app on your Android device.
4. Enter SSH Server Details:
   • In the SSH client, enter the details of your SSH server:
     • Hostname or IP address
     • Port (usually 22 for SSH)
     • Username
     • Password or SSH key, depending on your server setup.
5. Establish SSH Connection:
   • Connect to your SSH server using the provided details. Verify the connection is successful.
6. Install WebSocket Tunneling App:
   • Install an app that allows WebSocket tunneling. Apps like HTTP Injector or Termux can be used.
7. Configure WebSocket Tunnel:
   • Open the WebSocket tunneling app and configure it:
     • Set the WebSocket server address and port.
     • Choose the SSH client as the payload (or similar option).
     • Configure any additional settings required by the tunneling app.
8. Start the WebSocket Tunnel:
   • Initiate the WebSocket tunnel. This step is crucial for establishing the connection between your Android device and the WebSocket server.
9. Connect via SSH Over WebSocket:
   • Now, go back to your SSH client. Instead of connecting directly to the SSH server, connect to localhost or 127.0.0.1 on the port specified by the WebSocket tunnel.
10. Verify Connection:
    • Verify that your SSH connection is working through the WebSocket tunnel. You should be able to execute commands, transfer files, or perform any other SSH-related tasks.

Notes:

• Firewall and Server Configuration:
  • Ensure that firewalls on both the Android device and the server allow traffic on the specified ports.
  • Configure your SSH server to accept WebSocket connections.
• Security Considerations:
  • Always use strong, unique passwords or SSH keys.
  • Regularly update and patch your SSH and WebSocket server software for security reasons.
• Troubleshooting:
  • If you encounter issues, check logs in both the SSH client app and WebSocket tunneling app for error messages.
  • Ensure that your WebSocket server is operational and configured correctly.

By following these steps, you should be able to use SSH over WebSocket on your Android device securely. Always prioritize security and be cautious when configuring and using such services.