# CIS Ubuntu 14.04 LTS - 5.2.2 Ensure SSH Protocol is set to 2

> Verify SSH is configured to use Protocol version 2 only

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-5-2-2-ensure-ssh-protocol-is-set-to-2` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-5-2-2-ensure-ssh-protocol-is-set-to-2`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-5-2-2-ensure-ssh-protocol-is-set-to-2/raw
- Safety review: PASS (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS)
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: cyberstrikeus (https://skillmd.com/u/cyberstrikeus)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-5-2-2-ensure-ssh-protocol-is-set-to-2

---


# 5.2.2 Ensure SSH Protocol is set to 2 (Scored)

## Profile Applicability

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation

## Description

SSH supports two different and incompatible protocols: SSH1 and SSH2. SSH1 was the original protocol and was subject to security issues. SSH2 is more advanced and secure.

## Rationale

SSH v1 suffers from insecurities that do not affect SSH v2.

## Audit Procedure

Run the following command and verify that output matches:

```bash
grep "^Protocol" /etc/ssh/sshd_config
```

## Expected Result

```
Protocol 2
```

## Remediation

Edit the `/etc/ssh/sshd_config` file to set the parameter as follows:

```
Protocol 2
```

## Default Value

Protocol 2

## References

- CIS Controls: 3.4 - Use Only Secure Channels For Remote System Administration

## Profile

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation