Coding⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: I am getting this error "ssh_exchange_identification:"

Error fix for SSH connection issue.

Quick Answer: Check the RSA1 public key and ensure it is correctly formatted.

The error 'ssh_exchange_identification: Connection closed by remote host' is a frustrating issue that affects users who are trying to establish an SSH connection. This error occurs when the remote server does not recognize or accept the SSH client's identity, causing the connection to be closed abruptly.

This error can be particularly annoying for users who rely on SSH connections for work or personal purposes. In this troubleshooting guide, we will walk you through the steps to resolve this issue and get your SSH connection up and running smoothly again.

⚠️ Common Causes

  • The primary reason for this error is that the remote server does not recognize or accept the SSH client's identity. This can happen due to various reasons such as incorrect public key configuration, missing or invalid SSH keys, or corrupted SSH configurations.
  • Another alternative reason for this error could be related to network connectivity issues or firewall rules blocking the SSH connection.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Resolving Public Key Configuration Issues

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Check your public key configuration to ensure that it is correctly configured on both the client and server sides. Verify that the public key is properly formatted and stored in the correct location.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: If you are using a private key, try generating a new one or re-generating an existing one. This can help resolve any issues related to key recognition or validation.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: Check for any firewall rules or network connectivity issues that may be blocking the SSH connection. Ensure that port 22 (the default SSH port) is open and accessible on both the client and server sides.

Checking Network Connectivity and Firewall Rules

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Verify that your network connectivity is stable and functional. Check for any issues with your internet connection or router configuration.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Check your firewall rules to ensure that they are not blocking the SSH connection. You may need to add an exception for port 22 (the default SSH port).

💡 Conclusion

To resolve the 'ssh_exchange_identification: Connection closed by remote host' error, it is essential to identify and address any issues related to public key configuration, network connectivity, or firewall rules. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve the issue and establish a stable SSH connection with your remote server.

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