Kinsman SSH Support
Quick answers, troubleshooting, and how to reach a human.
Need direct help, found a bug, or have a feature request?
Email: jakinsman@gmail.com
Please put "Kinsman SSH" in the subject and include your iOS version and device model. We reply within 1–2 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add my first SSH connection?
Tap the + button in the top-right of the host list. Enter a nickname, hostname or IP, port (default 22), username, and either a password or private key. Tap Test Connection to verify, then Add.
How do I import a private key?
Several ways:
- Files / AirDrop — share a
.pem,.key, or OpenSSH private key file to Kinsman SSH. - QR code — display your key as a QR code on your Mac and scan it from the in-app camera.
- Local Wi-Fi transfer — open the in-app Local Transfer screen and follow the URL on your Mac to send the key directly.
Keys are stored in iOS Keychain and never leave the device.
Are my passwords and keys safe?
Yes. Passwords and private keys are stored in the iOS Keychain with hardware-backed encryption. They never leave your device. Kinsman SSH does not have a backend server, account, or analytics.
What are connection slots? Why am I being asked to buy more?
Each saved SSH host occupies one slot. The app comes with 5 free slots. If you need to save more hosts, you can purchase additional slots from the Slot Store: +5 slots for $1.99 or +10 slots for $2.99. Slots are one-time, non-expiring purchases tied to your device.
Can I restore my slot purchases on a new device?
Slot purchases are consumable in-app purchases, which Apple does not support restoring across devices. If you reinstall on the same device, your slots remain. If you switch devices and need help, email us at jakinsman@gmail.com — we'll work it out.
Why does my connection drop after a few minutes?
iOS may suspend background network activity. Kinsman SSH offers two modes: Command Mode (recommended for stability) runs commands one at a time and reconnects quickly, and Interactive Shell (full TUI support — vim, htop, Claude Code, etc.) which keeps a persistent shell. If you're seeing drops in Interactive mode, try switching to Command Mode.
How do I copy text from the terminal?
Tap the copy icon in the toolbar to copy the visible terminal output. iOS Universal Clipboard works too — copy on your Mac and paste right into the app.
Does Kinsman SSH support SFTP / file transfer?
The current release focuses on terminal access. SFTP browsing is on the roadmap.
How do I delete a saved host?
Swipe left on the host row in the list and tap Delete. This also removes its keychain entries (password and key).
What iOS versions are supported?
iOS 16 and later, on iPhone and iPad. Apple Watch is not supported.
Privacy & Legal
- Privacy Policy
- App Store: Kinsman SSH on the App Store