When SSH is not enabled on SonicWall NSv, you must access the command-line interface (CLI) directly through the ESXi virtual machine console. This method is commonly used during initial deployment, password recovery, or when the management interface is not reachable.
To launch the NSv CLI from the ESXi vm console
Locate and select the NSv virtual machine.
Click the Summary tab.
Alternatively, click Actions > Open Console.
Click Launch Remote Console (or Open Console depending on the vSphere version).
On the NSV VM Console , press Enter to display the login prompt.
Sign in using the NSv administrator credentials.
After successful login, the NSv CLI prompt appears.
To enable SSH from the CLI, enter configuration mode > navigate to the administration context > run the enable-ssh command, and then commit the changes.