Shell
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In computing, a shell is a piece of software that essentially provides a kind of interface for end-users. Typically, the term refers to an operating system shell which provides access to the services of a kernel. However, the term is also applied very loosely to applications and may include any software that is "built around" a particular component, such as web browsers and email clients that are "shells" for HTML rendering engines. The name 'shell' originates from shells being an outer layer of interface between the user and the innards of the operating system (the kernel).
Operating system shells generally fall into one of two categories: command line and graphical. Command line shells provide a command line interface (CLI) to the operating system, while graphical shells provide a graphical user interface (GUI).
A shell is a place where you can write commands to be executed. If you are running a Windows OS, a shell is like the command prompt. (Start/All Programs/Accessories/Command Prompt). On a shell you can see your files with the command "ls" (short for "list"), you can change directory with the command "cd" (short for "change directory), etc.
Using the shell
Main article: SSH
To use the shell you need to activate it first in your Web Panel. Panel -> Users -> Manage Users -> select Edit. You will see the possibility to activate the shell there. Your shell account should be active within 30 minutes after the change. You can use your existing login information to connect via SSH, and DreamHost recommends PuTTY for Windows users.
