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Accessing Cluster#

Secure Shell Connect#

After connecting the VPN#, SSH into the login node using a terminal on your personal device (Mac, Windows, Linux, etc.):

The examples below cover all available login nodes. Select the tab for your assigned cluster:

ssh username@cronus.uchicago.edu
ssh username@sscs-acropolis2.ssd.uchicago.edu
ssh username@sscs-athens2.ssd.uchicago.edu

The username field is your CNET ID only, not your full email address.

Warning

Login nodes are shared interactive systems built for file transfer, file editing and testing. Do not run heavy computations here.

# Network Access

On-campus users can connect to the cluster directly without VPN. If you are off-campus, connect to the UChicago CVPN before attempting to access the cluster.

SSH Tools#

  • macOS/Linux: Terminal (built-in SSH)
  • Windows: Command prompt, PuTTY, PowerShell, WSL, MobaXterm

Tip

Outbound SSH from the cluster is not available. Use local clients to pull data to your desktop if needed.

Graphical Access (RealVNC)#

If you require a graphical desktop environment, you may connect to the login node using VNC Viewer.

After connecting to the cVPN:

  1. Download and install VNC Viewer from the RealVNC website.

    Download VNC Viewer

  2. Open VNC Viewer.

    Open VNC Viewer

  3. In the RealVNC Connect address bar, enter the login node hostname or IP address followed by the VNC port (5999).

    Example for Cronus:

    cronus.uchicago.edu:5999

    RealVNC Connect

  4. Press Enter.

  5. When prompted, log in using your CNET ID username (not your full email address) and password.

    RealVNC Connect

    RealVNC Connect

    Info

    Once your login is approved via Duo, you may be returned to the credentials prompt. If so, click OK again to complete the login and proceed to the VNC session.

  6. Accept any security or certificate prompt if displayed.

    RealVNC Connect


Two-Factor Authentication#

The cluster requires Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) via Duo for all user accounts. Ensure Duo is set up on your device prior to accessing the cluster.

Two-Factor Authentication

To set up Two-Factor Authentication (Duo) for your account, follow the 2FA Setup Guide.