Network

Secure Shell (SSH) Tools

June 15, 2023 Leave a Comment

Secure Shell (SSH) is a cryptographic network protocol that provides secure remote login, file transfer, and command execution over an insecure network. SSH tools are software applications that implement the SSH protocol for various purposes.

Here are some commonly used SSH tools:

  1. OpenSSH
  2. PuTTY
  3. WinSCP
  4. Bitvise SSH Client
  5. MobaXterm
  6. SecureCRT
  7. TeraTerm
  8. XshellSSH Secure Shell
  9. Solar PuTTY

1. OpenSSH:

OpenSSH is a widely used open-source implementation of the SSH protocol suite. It includes the ssh client for secure remote login and the sshd server for secure remote access to systems. OpenSSH supports features like secure file transfer (SFTP), port forwarding, X11 forwarding, and secure tunneling.

Key features:

  • Secure remote access: OpenSSH allows users to securely connect to remote systems over an insecure network, such as the Internet. It encrypts the entire session, including authentication, data transfer, and commands, to protect against eavesdropping and unauthorized access.
  • Encrypted file transfer: OpenSSH includes the sftp command-line tool and the sftp-server subsystem for secure file transfers between local and remote systems. It encrypts file transfers to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of transferred data.
  • Tunneling capabilities: OpenSSH supports secure tunneling, allowing users to create encrypted tunnels for forwarding arbitrary network connections. This feature enables secure access to services running on remote systems through an encrypted connection.

2. PuTTY:

PuTTY is a free and open-source SSH client for Windows. It provides a terminal emulator and supports SSH, Telnet, and serial connections. PuTTY supports various SSH features such as public-key authentication, session management, and tunneling.

Key features:

  • Manage the SSH encryption key and protocol version.
  • File transfer with command-line SCP and SFTP clients.
  • Port forwarding over SSH.
  • Supports IPv6.
  • Supports public-key authentication.
  • Supports local serial port connections.

3. WinSCP:

WinSCP is a popular Windows-based graphical SFTP and SCP client. It allows secure file transfer between local and remote systems using the SSH protocol. WinSCP provides a user-friendly interface and supports features like directory synchronization, file encryption, and scripting.

Key features:

  • WinSCP provides a Graphical User Interface and Integrated Text Editor.
  • It will allow all common operations with files.
  • It provides many more features like Scripting & Task automation, Workspaces, Background transfers, etc.

4. Bitvise SSH Client:

Bitvise SSH Client is a Windows-based SSH client that offers secure remote access, file transfer, and terminal access. It supports features like SSH port forwarding, X11 forwarding, and dynamic port forwarding. Bitvise SSH Client also provides integrated FTP-to-SFTP bridge functionality.

Key features:

  • Bitvise SSH Client has Auto-reconnecting capability.
  • By making use of an integrated proxy, the Bitvise SSH client allows dynamic port forwarding.
  • It creates an FTP-to-SFTP bridge.
  • It provides security through Key exchange algorithms, Signature algorithms, Encryption algorithms, Data integrity protection, Server authentication, and Client authentication.

5. MobaXterm:

MobaXterm is a comprehensive terminal tool for Windows that includes SSH, X11, and RDP capabilities. It provides an all-in-one solution for remote access, file transfer, and remote command execution. MobaXterm offers features like a multi-tabbed terminal, graphical SFTP browser, X server, and session management.

Key features:

  • MobaXterm has an embedded X server, X11-forwarding, and a tabbed terminal with SSH.
  • It has brought UNIX commands to Windows.
  • It is an extendable platform through plugins.
  • It provides network security to graphical applications and file transfers through encryption using a secure SSH connection.

6. SecureCRT:

SecureCRT is a commercial SSH client available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. It offers secure remote access, file transfer, and terminal emulation. SecureCRT supports SSH, Telnet, and serial connections, and provides features such as tabbed sessions, scripting, and session management.

Key features:

  • Advanced session management.
  • Advanced Scripting: Automate and streamline repetitive tasks.
  • Secure remote access, file transfer, and data tunneling.
  • Change the look of the workspace with predefined color schemes.
  • Compare the output of two sessions or organize your sessions with tab groups.
  • Drag and drop multiple live sessions.
  • Quick access to sessions with the “Recent Session List”

7. TeraTerm:

TeraTerm is a free and open-source terminal emulator for Windows. It supports SSH, Telnet, and serial connections, making it useful for remote access and debugging. TeraTerm offers features like VT100 emulation, file transfer, macro scripting, and support for various character encodings.

Key features:

  • Terminal emulation: TeraTerm supports various terminal emulation modes, including VT100, VT220, and ANSI. It accurately emulates the behavior of different terminals, allowing users to interact with remote systems effectively.
  • SSH, Telnet, and serial connections: TeraTerm supports multiple protocols, including SSH, Telnet, and direct serial connections. This enables users to establish secure connections to remote systems or directly connect to devices via serial ports.
  • Secure remote access: TeraTerm incorporates SSH protocol support, allowing users to securely log in to remote systems and execute commands over encrypted connections. This ensures the confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted during remote sessions.

8. Xshell:

Xshell is a powerful SSH, Telnet, and serial terminal emulator for Windows. It offers a tabbed interface, SSH key management, session management, and scripting capabilities. Xshell supports various authentication methods and provides secure remote access.

Key features:

  • Xshell provides deep customization by allowing you to set key mappings and quick commands for efficiency optimization.
  • It provides Compose Pane for drafting multiple lines of the string before it is sent to the terminal.
  • Its Highlight sets feature will not let you miss anything. You can highlight keywords or regular expressions.
  • It provides extensive security through end-to-end encryption algorithms and several authentication methods.

9. SSH Secure Shell:

SSH Secure Shell, also known as SSH Tectia, is a commercial SSH client that provides secure remote access and file transfer. It supports multiple platforms and offers advanced security features, including encryption and authentication mechanisms.

Key features:

  • Terminal emulation: TeraTerm supports various terminal emulation modes, including VT100, VT220, and ANSI. It accurately emulates the behavior of different terminals, allowing users to interact with remote systems effectively.
  • SSH, Telnet, and serial connections: TeraTerm supports multiple protocols, including SSH, Telnet, and direct serial connections. This enables users to establish secure connections to remote systems or directly connect to devices via serial ports.
  • Secure remote access: TeraTerm incorporates SSH protocol support, allowing users to securely log in to remote systems and execute commands over encrypted connections. This ensures the confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted during remote sessions.

10. Solar PuTTY:

Solar PuTTY is a free SSH client developed by SolarWinds. It provides a tabbed interface, SSH key management, and session management. Solar PuTTY is designed to simplify remote access and administration tasks.

Key features:

  • Solar-PuTTY provides a tabbed interface, thus, it will be easier to manage multiple sessions from one console.
  • With the help of Windows Search Integration, the saved session could be found easily.
  • You can automate all the scripts after establishing the connection.
  • It will allow you to save credentials or private keys to any session.
Rajesh Kumar
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