> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.synteq.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.synteq.com/system-administration/common-issues/lost-ssh-key/lost-ssh-key-on-a-dedicated-server.md).

# Lost SSH key on a dedicated server

### 1. Go to your server

Start by going into [Metal](https://metal.crunchbits.com/), and logging in. Then select your server, by clicking on it's name.

<figure><img src="/files/39ffdEr0OJJmgPePFaso" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Then go to the `Rescue` tab.

<figure><img src="/files/X45vxSmMBFmGywbbt7Jz" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### 2. Reset the root password

First, select the `Reset Admin Password` \[1] option, then select the `Reset Admin Password` \[2] option once again.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/9BUmvtpt4xnLd94KDvnk" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Then scroll down to the bottom, and input your new password into the `Set root password` \[1] field, and click `START RESCUE` \[2]. In here, you can also optionally add an SSH key.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/gmHsGytJzVc30Pien0XA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Then read the warning, and if you agree with these terms click on `START PASSWORD RESET`.

<figure><img src="/files/SUGcyfhkzK3WkVzmC3EE" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Afterward, wait for it to finish the password reset process.

{% hint style="warning" %}
If it's stuck on `Preparing boot environment` for 10+ minutes, then first please try to restart the server. If that doesn't fix it, please reach out to us via the buttons on the right top.
{% endhint %}

### 3. Add in your new SSH key/enable password root SSH logins

From here, you can console into the server as outlined in [Entering console](/dedicated-servers/server-management/entering-console.md), and either directly add in your new SSH key there, or modify your `/etc/ssh/sshd_config` to allow password authentication. \[The variable for this is `PasswordAuthentication`, and it should be set to `Yes`]


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