Locked out of my own server by denyhosts

[ianevans]

Sigh...

I use denyhosts for security. Been great for months, but today my butterfingers have managed to lock myself out of the server.

The denyhosts FAQ lists ways to edit the files to erase your IP, but...I'm locked out, so how can I edit the files?

[vincevincevince]

Unfortunately you will need someone with physical access to do it*; they can boot into single user mode and make the required change. I assume that you are renting a server? If so then you will need to make it really simple for your ISP's technician, something like:

1. Boot into single user mode
(This is my root password)
2. Delete /etc/deny.hosts
3. Reboot server

Best to have them delete the whole configuration, rather than try to get it edited. Much better chance of it working first time and keeping your bill down.

_{* If it is just YOUR IP that is denied... go and use someone else's connection... a friend, or the IP at an internet cafe (just change your PW when you get home)}

[ianevans]

After pulling out my hair for a bit I realized I can just head to a cafe when they open and open an SSH connection to the server there.

Still, I guess I'll have to move to a key pair after that so that my clumsy fingers aren't involved!