Skip to main content

​
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.
This tool provides a simple solution for transferring your files to a new Pod.

​
Requirements

Before using these tools, make sure you have:
  1. Terminal access on your Runpod instances:
    • Web Terminal in Runpod’s interface, or
    • Terminal in Jupyter Notebook/Lab
  2. 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.
  3. 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