What are these tools?
These are simple bash and Python scripts that solve a critical problem: migrating data between Runpod instances when you need to move Pods (e.g., when your Pod gets stuck with zero GPUs or you need to switch to a different instance).Check the repository for additional features, updates, and documentation: github.com/justinwlin/Runpod-SSH-Password
The problem it solves
When Runpod users encounter issues like:- Pod stuck with zero GPUs allocated.
- Need to migrate to a different GPU type.
- Want to transfer data between Pods.
- Need to backup data before terminating a Pod.
Requirements
Before using these tools, make sure you have:-
Terminal access on your Runpod instances:
- Web Terminal in Runpod’s interface, or
- Terminal in Jupyter Notebook/Lab
-
Port 22 exposed on destination Pod / source Pod:
- Go to: Pod > Edit Pod > TCP Ports
- Add port
22
if not present
Important: Changing TCP ports will restart your Pod and erase all data outside of/workspace
. Make sure all important files are stored in/workspace
(the default persistent directory) before making port changes. - Linux-based template: Works on Ubuntu/Debian images (most Runpod templates)
Quick migration workflow
1
Set up destination Pod
On your destination Pod (where you’re migrating to):The script will prompt you to set a password. After setup, it displays your connection details:Save these details - you’ll need them in Step 4.
2
Transfer source Pod
On your source Pod (where your files currently are):
3
Navigate and select files
The tool provides an interactive interface:Navigation Mode - Browse directories:Selection Mode - Choose what to transfer:
4
Enter connection and transfer
Enter the SSH details from Step 1:The tool will:
- Files: Transfer directly via SCP
- Folders: Compress to ZIP, transfer, then extract automatically
Key features
- Interactive navigation: Browse files with simple number selection
- Smart compression: Automatically zips folders for reliable transfer
- Mode switching: Press
s
for selection,n
for navigation - Clean transfer: Auto-extracts and cleans up on destination