Connecting via SSH

SSH (Secure Shell) provides direct command line access to your Spark ProStation. Unlike the graphical TGX session, SSH offers a lightweight, text based interface that is ideal for running scripts, managing files, and automating workflows remotely.

Before You Begin

Complete the following steps before attempting to connect to your ProStation via SSH:

1. Install the Spark App or access the Dashboard

You'll need the Spark software installed on your local machine before you can connect.

Windows & macOS: Use the Spark Desktop App to download your SSH .pem key and connection command.
Get Spark Desktop App for Windows Get Spark Desktop App for MacOS

2. Ensure Your ProStation Is Ready

On the Dashboard, confirm that the Connect button is visible and available next to your workstation. This indicates your ProStation is up and ready to accept connections.

Need to create or launch a ProStation?

Refer to the Setting Up Your ProStation guide before continuing.

ProStation Connect button on the Dashboard

Connecting via SSH

Showing steps for: Windows

Step 1: Open the Spark App

Launch the Spark app and navigate to the Dashboard.

Step 2: Select SSH from the Connect dropdown

Click the dropdown arrow on the Connect button next to your workstation. Select SSH from the options shown.

Connect dropdown showing Desktop and SSH options on Windows

Step 3: Download PEM and copy the SSH command

An SSH connection panel will open showing the IP address, username, and a pre-filled SSH command.

Click Download PEM to save your private key file.
Copy the SSH command shown in the panel.

SSH connection panel with Download PEM and command on Windows

Step 4: Open Terminal and Run the SSH Command

Windows: Open PowerShell or Windows Terminal.
Navigate to the folder where your .pem file was saved.
Restrict permissions on your .pem file so OpenSSH accepts it, then run the SSH command.
On first connection, you will be prompted to confirm the host fingerprint. Type yes and press Enter.

cd path\to\your\pem\file
icacls ".\spark-workstation-name.pem" /inheritance:r
icacls ".\spark-workstation-name.pem" /grant:r "$($env:USERNAME):R"
ssh -i spark-workstation-name.pem administrator@<your-ip>

Seeing a permission error on your .pem file?

If SSH reports Permissions for '...pem' are too open, run these commands in PowerShell from the folder containing your key, then try connecting again:

icacls ".\spark-workstation-name.pem" /inheritance:r
icacls ".\spark-workstation-name.pem" /grant:r "$($env:USERNAME):R"

Don't forget to stop your workstation

Disconnecting or logging out does not stop your ProStation. It continues running and billing. If you're done for the day, go to the Dashboard and click Stop.