Control Your Linux Server Remotely with GnuPG, procmail, and PHP
Build a system to securely talk to your Linux server via email using an email client, GnuPG, procmail, and PHP.
by Roberto Giorgetti
July 14, 2008
ow many times has this happened to you: you want to access a remote server, but you can't because it is behind a firewall? I frequently found myself in such a situation when I needed to access my Internet-connected server running Linux, so I thought of a system where I could start controlling my server remotely via a simple email.
Of course, this solution had one crucial requirement: it had to be secure. The server had to respond only to senders who were identified and authorized, and the command sent to the server, along with its related output, had to travel over the wire in encrypted form. To meet these security requirements, I used the free GNU Privacy Guard (GnuPG) and some asymmetric encryption techniques (See Sidebar 1. Asymmetric Cryptography in This Solution).
It's quick, easy and you get access to all the articles on DevX.
This registration/login is to allow you to read articles on devx.com. Already a member?
To become a member of DevX.com create your Member Profile by completing the form below. Membership is free!
ow many times has this happened to you: you want to access a remote server, but you can't because it is behind a firewall? I frequently found myself in such a situation when I needed to access my Internet-connected server running Linux, so I thought of a system where I could start controlling my server remotely via a simple email.
