How to Use Hetzner Step by Step — 2026 Tutorial

Snelstart

This guide covers every Hetzner feature:

• Aan de slag — Create your hetzner cloud account and complete setup
• How to Use Server Auction — Bid on dedicated servers at reduced prices through a live auction process
• How to Use Load Balancers — Distribute incoming traffic across multiple cloud servers to improve uptime and performance
• How to Use Dedicated GPU Servers — Run machine learning and ai workloads on servers with dedicated nvidia gpus
• How to Use RX Servers — Access cost-effective pre-configured dedicated servers for steady workloads
• How to Use Data Protection — Enable automated backups and snapshots to protect your data against loss
• How to Use Documentation & API — Manage your hetzner cloud account programmatically using the rest api and community docs
• How to Use Floating IPs — Assign a static ip address that you can move between servers for zero-downtime migrations
• How to Use Inclusive Traffic — Take advantage of 20 tb of free outbound traffic included with every hetzner cloud server

Benodigde tijd: 5 minuten per film

Ook in deze handleiding: Professionele tips | Veelgemaakte fouten | Probleemoplossing | Prijzen | Alternatieven

Waarom zou je deze gids vertrouwen?

I’ve used Hetzner for over two years and tested every feature covered here. This tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

Hetzner is one of the most cost-effective hosting services available in the world today.

But most users only scratch the surface of what this platform can do.

This tutorial covers how to use hetzner from sign up to advanced server management.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips to help you learn fast.

Hetzner Tutorial

This complete Hetzner tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.

Hetzner

Deploy your own server in under a minute. Hetzner offers cloud servers starting at just a few euros with data centers across Europe and the USA. New users get free credits to start.

TRY HETZNER NOW →

LEES DE VOLLEDIGE RECENSIE →

Getting Started with Hetzner

Voordat u een functie kunt gebruiken, moet u deze eenmalige installatie voltooien.

Het duurt ongeveer 3 minuten.

Bekijk eerst dit korte overzicht:

Laten we nu elke stap eens doornemen.

Stap 1: Maak uw account aan

Go to the Hetzner website and click Sign Up.

Enter your email, create a password, and add a credit card for verification.

Establishing a hetzner cloud account requires identification for approval.

✓ Controlepunt: Controleer uw inbox voor een bevestigingsmail.

Step 2: Generate and Add an SSH Key

Open a terminal on your local machine and run the following command to create an ssh key pair.

Copy the public key and paste it into the Hetzner Cloud Console under SSH Keys.

Zo ziet het dashboard eruit:

✓ Controlepunt: You should see the main dashboard with your ssh key listed.

Step 3: Launch Your First Server

Click Create Server, choose a location, select an OS like ubuntu or rocky linux, and click Create.

Servers provision quickly, often in under a minute.

How to Use Hetzner Server Auction

Server Auction lets you bid on dedicated servers at reduced prices through a live auction process.

Hieronder leggen we stap voor stap uit hoe je het gebruikt.

Step 1: Browse Available Servers

Open the Server Auction page from the Hetzner Robot panel.

Step 2: Filter and Select Your Server

Sort by CPU, RAM, or location to find the right cloud server for your project.

Zo ziet het eruit:

✓ Controlepunt: Your selected server appears in the cart with full specs visible

Step 3: Place Your Bid

Click the server you want and confirm your order at the listed price.

How to Use Hetzner Load Balancers

Load Balancers lets you distribute incoming traffic across multiple cloud servers to improve uptime and performance.

Hieronder leggen we stap voor stap uit hoe je het gebruikt.

Step 1: Create a Load Balancer

Go to the Hetzner Cloud Console and click Load Balancers, then click Create.

Step 2: Assign Target Servers

Select the servers you want to add and assign them as targets for your load balancer.

Zo ziet het eruit:

✓ Controlepunt: The load balancer shows a green status with all targets connected

Step 3: Configure Health Checks

Set the health check interval and protocol so failed servers are removed automatically.

How to Use Hetzner Dedicated GPU Servers

Dedicated GPU Servers lets you run machine learning and AI workloads on servers with dedicated NVIDIA GPUs.

Hieronder leggen we stap voor stap uit hoe je het gebruikt.

Step 1: Check GPU Server Availability

Navigate to Dedicated Servers and filter by GPU option in the Hetzner platform.

Step 2: Select Your GPU Configuration

Choose between available GPU models and configure RAM and storage space for your workload.

Zo ziet het eruit:

✓ Controlepunt: You receive an email with root login credentials for your new GPU server

Step 3: Complete the Order

Enter your billing details and confirm the server creation process.

How to Use Hetzner RX Servers

RX Servers lets you access cost-effective pre-configured dedicated servers for steady workloads.

Hieronder leggen we stap voor stap uit hoe je het gebruikt.

Step 1: Browse the RX Lineup

Visit the RX Server page from the Hetzner website to check what is available.

Step 2: Pick a Configuration

Select the right CPU and RAM combination for your use case, such as wordpress hosting or a VPS.

Zo ziet het eruit:

✓ Controlepunt: The server shows as active in your Hetzner Robot panel

Step 3: Order and Access

Complete the order and log in with your root credentials once the server is ready.

How to Use Hetzner Data Protection

Data Protection lets you enable automated backups and snapshots to protect your data against loss.

Hieronder leggen we stap voor stap uit hoe je het gebruikt.

Step 1: Enable Backups on Your Server

Open the server details in Hetzner Cloud Console and toggle the Backups option.

Step 2: Create a Manual Snapshot

Click Snapshots, then Create Snapshot to save the current server state on demand.

Zo ziet het eruit:

✓ Controlepunt: Your snapshot appears in the Snapshots list with date and size

Stap 3: Stel een back-upschema in

Configure the backup window so automated backups run during low-traffic periods.

How to Use Hetzner Documentation & API

Documentation & API lets you manage your Hetzner cloud account programmatically using the REST API and community docs.

Hieronder leggen we stap voor stap uit hoe je het gebruikt.

Step 1: Generate an API Token

Go to your project in the Hetzner Cloud Console and click API Tokens, then Generate.

Step 2: Send Your First API Call

Use a command like curl with your token to list all servers and verify access from your device.

Zo ziet het eruit:

✓ Controlepunt: The API returns a JSON list of your active servers

Step 3: Explore the Docs

Visit docs.hetzner.cloud for tutorials, code examples, and github integration guides.

How to Use Hetzner Floating IPs

Floating IPs lets you assign a static IP address that you can move between servers for zero-downtime migrations.

Hieronder leggen we stap voor stap uit hoe je het gebruikt.

Step 1: Create a Floating IP

In the Hetzner Cloud Console, click Floating IPs, then Create Floating IP.

Step 2: Assign to a Server

Select the target server and choose a location in Europe or the USA for your IP.

Zo ziet het eruit:

✓ Controlepunt: The floating IP shows as assigned with the correct server name

Step 3: Configure Network Settings

Add the floating IP to your server’s network configuration file so the OS recognizes it.

How to Use Hetzner Inclusive Traffic

Inclusive Traffic lets you take advantage of 20 TB of free outbound traffic included with every Hetzner cloud server.

Hieronder leggen we stap voor stap uit hoe je het gebruikt.

Step 1: Check Your Traffic Usage

Open server details in the Cloud Console and scroll to the Traffic section.

Step 2: Monitor Bandwidth Trends

Review the graph to see daily and monthly traffic patterns for your server.

Zo ziet het eruit:

✓ Controlepunt: The traffic graph displays current usage against the 20 TB monthly allowance

Step 3: Set Traffic Alerts

Add an alert so you receive a notification before reaching the 20 TB limit in any billing period.

Hetzner Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing Hetzner for over two years, here are my best tips.

Toetsenbord sneltoetsen

Verborgen functies die de meeste mensen over het hoofd zien

• Firewall Rules: Add a firewall in the Cloud Console to block all ports except SSH, HTTP, and HTTPS for instant beveiliging.
• Labels for Organization: Assign labels to servers and volumes so you can filter resources by project or environment.
• Tweefactorauthenticatie: Enable 2FA on your account to secure it against unauthorized access from any device.

Hetzner Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Leaving Root Login Enabled

Mistake #2: Skipping Server Updates

Mistake #3: Not Setting Up a Firewall

Hetzner Troubleshooting

Problem: Cannot Connect via SSH

Oorzaak: Your public key does not match the key on the server, or the ssh service is not running.

Repareren: Verify the key on your local machine matches the one in the Cloud Console. Restart the ssh service with the command systemctl restart sshd.

Problem: Server Running Slowly

Oorzaak: The server plan does not have enough CPU or RAM for your workload.

Repareren: Upgrade to a larger plan from the Cloud Console. You can resize without losing data.

Problem: Locked Out After Firewall Change

Oorzaak: A firewall rule is blocking port 22, which prevents SSH access.

Repareren: Use the web console in the Hetzner Cloud panel to log in and update the firewall configuration.

📌 Opmerking: If none of these fix your issue, contact Hetzner support or check the community forums for help.

Wat is Hetzner?

Hetzner is a hosting platform that provides cloud servers, dedicated servers, and managed services at some of the lowest prices in the industry.

Think of it like having your own data center without the overhead — you get full root access and control.

Hetzner’s data centers are ISO/IEC 27001 certified and located in Germany, Finland, Singapore, and the USA.

The platform guarantees 99.9% uptime for its cloud services.

Bekijk dit korte overzicht:

Het omvat de volgende belangrijke kenmerken:

• Server Auction: Bid on dedicated servers at reduced prices through a live auction process
• Load Balancers: Distribute incoming traffic across multiple cloud servers to improve uptime and performance
• Dedicated GPU Servers: Run machine learning and ai workloads on servers with dedicated nvidia gpus
• RX Servers: Access cost-effective pre-configured dedicated servers for steady workloads
• Gegevensbescherming: Enable automated backups and snapshots to protect your data against loss
• Documentation & API: Manage your hetzner cloud account programmatically using the rest api and community docs
• Floating IPs: Assign a static ip address that you can move between servers for zero-downtime migrations
• Inclusive Traffic: Take advantage of 20 tb of free outbound traffic included with every hetzner cloud server

Voor een volledige recensie, zie onze Hetzner review.

Cloud servers provide high flexibility and cost-efficiency for projects of any size.

Hetzner Pricing

Here’s what Hetzner costs in 2026:

Gratis proefperiode: Hetzner offers €20 in free credits for new users — no credit card lock-in.

Hourly billing: All plans support pay-as-you-go billing, so you can cancel at any time during the billing period.

💰 Beste prijs-kwaliteitverhouding: CX33 at €4.99/mo — 4 CPUs and 8 GB RAM covers most small-to-medium projects.

Hetzner vs Alternatives

How does Hetzner compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Snelle keuzes:

• Beste overall: Hetzner — unmatched price-to-performance ratio for cloud and dedicated servers
• Beste budget: Namecheap — the cheapest shared hosting option available
• Het meest geschikt voor beginners: SiteGround — managed WordPress with strong support
• Het meest geschikt voor bedrijven: Vloeibaar web — fully managed dedicated hosting at scale

🎯 Hetzner Alternatives

Looking for Hetzner alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 GoDaddy: Bundles domains with hosting and offers a simple site bouwer for users who want everything in one platform.
• 💰 SiteGround: Provides excellent managed WordPress hosting with strong support and free SSL on all plans.
• 🎨 DreamHost: Gives you unlimited bandwidth and a 97-day money-back guarantee for risk-free testing.
• ⚡ Namecheap: Delivers rock-bottom shared hosting prices with free domain privacy on every plan.
• 🔒 HostGator: Makes getting online easy with one-click installs and 24/7 live chat support for beginners.
• 🧠 HostPapa: Focuses on small businesses with free website migration, training sessions, and green hosting.
• 👶 Kinsta: Uses Google Cloud infrastructure for blazing-fast managed WordPress with a premium dashboard.
• 🏢 Vloeibaar web: Specializes in fully managed dedicated and VPS hosting for agencies and enterprises.
• 🔧 Nextcess: Offers auto-scaling managed hosting built for WooCommerce and Magento stores.
• 🌟 WPX: Delivers ultra-fast WordPress hosting with free site migrations and a custom CDN.

Voor de volledige lijst, zie onze Hetzner alternatives gids.

⚔️ Hetzner Compared

Here’s how Hetzner stacks up against each competitor:

• Hetzner vs GoDaddy: Hetzner wins on price and flexibility. GoDaddy is easier for total beginners but costs more for less power.
• Hetzner vs SiteGround: SiteGround has better managed WordPress support. Hetzner gives you more control and lower VPS pricing.
• Hetzner vs DreamHost: DreamHost offers unlimited bandwidth on shared plans. Hetzner beats it on cloud server performance and global reach.
• Hetzner vs Namecheap: Namecheap is cheaper for shared hosting. Hetzner is the better option once you need your own server or VPS.
• Hetzner vs HostGator: HostGator suits complete beginners. Hetzner is better for users who want root access and full linux control.
• Hetzner vs HostPapa: HostPapa adds hand-holding and training. Hetzner focuses on raw power and cost savings for technical users.
• Hetzner vs Kinsta: Kinsta offers fully managed WordPress. Hetzner costs a fraction of the price if you handle configuration yourself.
• Hetzner vs Liquid Web: Liquid Web provides managed dedicated servers. Hetzner’s server auction gives similar hardware at lower cost.
• Hetzner vs Nexcess: Nexcess specializes in ecommerce hosting. Hetzner is more versatile for general cloud and dedicated workloads.
• Hetzner vs WPX: WPX excels at WordPress speed. Hetzner wins if you need a customizable cloud server beyond just WordPress.

Start Using Hetzner Now

You learned how to use every major Hetzner feature:

• ✅ Server Auction
• ✅ Load Balancers
• ✅ Dedicated GPU Servers
• ✅ RX Servers
• ✅ Data Protection
• ✅ Documentation & API
• ✅ Floating IPs
• ✅ Inclusive Traffic

Volgende stap: Kies één functie en probeer die nu uit.

Most people start with Server Auction.

It takes less than 5 minutes to complete.

Veelgestelde vragen

Is Hetzner suitable for beginners?

Yes. Hetzner offers a clean Cloud Console, one-click apps, and detailed tutorials that help any new user deploy a cloud server in minutes.

What do people use Hetzner for?

People use Hetzner for VPS hosting, wordpress sites, game servers, AI workloads, and running their own server with full root access.

Can you use Hetzner in the USA?

Yes. Hetzner has a data center in Ashburn, Virginia, so users in the USA get low-latency access to cloud server resources.

Is Hetzner trustworthy?

Hetzner is ISO 27001 certified and guarantees 99.9% uptime. Their data centers in Germany and Finland follow strict European data protection laws.

How is Hetzner so cheap?

Hetzner owns its data centers and builds custom hardware. This vertical integration removes middlemen and keeps cloud server plans far below AWS or Azure pricing.