Once enabled, you can log into the system using an SSH client, which in most Unix terminals will be a command similar to the following: Do be careful that you do not specify a blank list of users, as this will prevent SSH connections from working properly. By default, all local users will have access, but you can restrict this list by specifying users. This will enable the service, but in addition you will need to specify which users may access the system via SSH. To set up a remote log-in session, you first need to enable SSH by checking the 'Remote Login' service in the Sharing system preferences. In addition, be sure at least one user is permitted to access the SSH service.

In setting up remote log-in, the system may show the IP address but you can also use the local bonjour name. Even if you are just starting out with running basic commands and scripts, the remote log-in service may be beneficial for running your tasks from remote locations. If you are a UNIX-guru or are otherwise familiar with the BSD command line interface, then Apple's inclusion of the remote log-in service 'SSH' will likely be familiar to you. However, this service can be used for more than a text-based interface to running commands, and you can use it to create secured FTP connections and similarly mount remote folders on a local system using the SSH filesystem (SSHFS) protocol. Being a Unix-like system, Apple has included the popular SSH remote log-in service for administering the system via the command line. Remote access to a computer system is a convenient option to have, as it can allow you to change settings, get to your files and folders, or otherwise use the system without needing to be immediately in front of it.

File sharing mac os