Hey everyone! My manager has asked me to find a solution to keep SSH sessions alive indefinitely, even during idle times. This problem started happening after our migration to AlmaLinux 9, whereas on version 8, the sessions stayed open without issue. I've taken a look at the `sshd_config` file, but there aren't any specific timers set there, like there were in version 8. Has anyone run into this problem or found a workaround? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
4 Answers
Have you tried adjusting settings on your SSH client? You can set `ServerAliveInterval` and `ServerAliveCountMax` directly in your SSH config to ensure it sends keepalive packets regularly. This can help prevent the session from disconnecting. Additionally, enabling TCP keepalives in your SSH client settings may keep your session alive longer. Just make sure you understand that network conditions play a significant role in maintaining these connections, too!
Right? But I’ve noticed that TCP keepalives might cause issues in certain network environments; be careful with that.
If you're keen on keeping SSH sessions alive, consider running commands in the background with `&` or using `mosh`, which is designed to handle intermittent connectivity more effectively than standard SSH. Also, having screen or `tmux` configured on your server can let you resume sessions whenever you reconnect. Remember, it’s not about leaving SSH open indefinitely, but rather managing tasks efficiently while respecting the inherent disconnects in SSH sessions!
Seriously, using `mosh` is fantastic, especially for wireless environments!
Totally! It’s about finding the right balance between convenience and security.
You might want to check the `ClientAliveInterval` and `ClientAliveCountMax` settings. These parameters can help manage your session timeouts. Just keep in mind that keeping sessions open forever can pose security risks. Instead, think about using tools like `tmux` or `screen` to manage long-running tasks. They allow you to detach from your session and reconnect later without losing your work, which can often be a better solution than keeping the SSH connection alive indefinitely. Humorously speaking, it's wise to evaluate what you're really trying to achieve with those open sessions. If it’s just a matter of convenience, consider that there could be safer alternatives out there!
Totally agree! Plus, using something like `tmux` not only keeps your processes alive but also lets you resume them easily.
Yes, and it's essential to think about security when keeping sessions open. Ensure that it's truly necessary!
It sounds more like a classic XY problem. Instead of just keeping SSH sessions alive, I think you should consider why you need them open at all. It could be worth discussing with your manager what the real goal is—maybe there are better ways to meet those needs without keeping the connections endless. Plus, using tools like Ansible or automating some admin tasks could alleviate the need for so many open sessions in the first place!
Good point! It’s better to approach this from a practical angle instead of just following commands.
Exactly! Communication about what the underlying goal is could lead to much better solutions without straining security.
The `ServerAlive` option is a lifesaver for me! It helps combat any disconnects I face.