Best Putty Alternatives for SSH Client Connections for !

PuTTy is the most basic and popular open-source SSH client used to securely connect to a remote server or device and manage it efficiently. Initially, this standard terminal emulator was developed for Windows-based systems, but there are versions available now for UNIX and Linux systems as well.

No doubt, PuTTy’s network software has been enhanced over the years, but what if you want more features and functionality than what PuTTy has to offer? The market has spoken, and many alternatives that may be even better than PuTTy have popped up with added benefits and functionality!

Below are some of the Best Alternatives to PuTTy for SSH client connections; some recommendations are free, while others are paid versions. You can choose the one that best suits your requirements and needs.

Here’s the Best Putty alternatives for SSH connections:

1. Solar-PuTTY

Solar-PuTTY is a FREE SSH client developed by an IT industry leader SolarWinds. It lets you remotely and securely connect to any device or server and is developed for Windows systems.

Solar-PuTTY Features:

Single console with a tabbed interface to manage multiple sessions seamlessly (like Firefox/chrome/opera tabs)
Includes Windows Search Integration to find saved sessions, IP address or Tags
Does not require Installation
Supports SSH, SCP, SFTP and Telnet protocols
Saves credentials (even private keys) for Auto-login
Graphical Progress Bar for SFTP file transfers
Allows to automate all scripts once connected
Auto Reconnection in case of connection failure
Assign Color Codes to any PuTTY session

Why do we recommend it?

During our extensive testing of Solar-PuTTY, one significant issue it addressed was the need for efficient remote connections. The tool’s tabbed interface and Windows Search integration allowed us to seamlessly manage multiple sessions and locate saved sessions, IP addresses, and tags quickly. This feature-rich, user-friendly SSH client excelled in automating scripts for swift logins and ensuring secure connections.

The Solar-PuTTY utility is user-friendly, as it allows you to save private keys or credentials to any session for quick logins every single time. Moreover, you can even automate scripts to establish a connection just as you login.

What makes it convenient is the fact it is light and portable. That means you can run the executable file, NO need for installation. Plus, the ‘Windows Search’ integration makes it easier to find saved sessions, Usernames, IP addresses, and Tags in no time. You can even color-code each session for easy recognition.

The best thing about Solar-PuTTY is its tabbed interface, which makes it better than PuTTy. And its integration with SFTP and SCP for secure file transfers is another bonus!

Who is it recommended for?

Solar-PuTTY is ideal for IT professionals and network administrators seeking a PuTTY alternative. Its capabilities benefit network engineers by simplifying remote device management and providing a color-coded, tabbed interface for easy recognition. Small business owners concerned about secure remote access can also leverage Solar-PuTTY for its user-friendly features.

Its user-friendly interface and advanced features make it accessible for individual IT professionals and network administrators. Simultaneously, its robust capabilities cater to the needs of enterprises with multiple devices requiring secure and efficient remote management.

Solar-PuTTY streamlines network management by providing a tabbed interface for multiple sessions, enabling quick logins and efficient session organization. The Windows Search integration facilitates easy retrieval of saved sessions, IP addresses, and tags. The tool’s automation of scripts ensures swift and secure connections, contributing to enhanced productivity in managing network devices.

Visit Website: https://www.solarwinds.com/free-tools/solar-putty/

Dowload Free with Registration: https://www.solarwinds.com/free-tools/solar-putty/registration

2. KiTTy

KiTTy is a fork version of the PuTTy project. This means that the KiTTy was developed by copying and slightly changing the source code of PuTTy. It is an open-source, FREE SSH client mainly designed only for the Microsoft Windows system interface. But, you can still get access to remote computers that run on Mac OS, Windows, UNIX and Linux systems.

KiTTy Features:

Free, open-source
Built-in Chat system and Text Editor
Designed for Windows platform, but can login to computers that run on other OS
Session Filtering options provided
Includes two SCP implementations viz. WinSCP and pscp
Auto Scripts/Login Scripts once a session is established
Allows you to launch multiple sessions
Connects via SSH, Telnet and rLogin protocols
Portable: Does not require Installation
Can run Local Scripts on remote devices/computers
Can Auto-Save sessions via Windows Registry
Add Automatic Passwords

Why do we recommend it?

In our evaluation of KiTTy, we found it to be a PuTTY alternative that maintained the familiar user interface of the original PuTTY while offering additional features. KiTTy’s open-source nature and built-in chat system provided an enhanced experience. Running multiple sessions simultaneously and creating automated scripts for remote device access were standout features that addressed our need for efficient command-line operations.

WinSCP and pscp are two of its SCP implementations and additionally, the KiTTy tool features a built-in text editor and a chat system. Since KiTTy is a fork version of PuTTy, most of the features, user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) are almost similar to PuTTy. It has an easy-to-use GUI with a configuration box and individual session icons.

Who is it recommended for?

KiTTy is recommended for users who appreciate the PuTTY interface but desire more features. System administrators and those working across Mac OS, Windows, UNIX, and Linux systems can benefit from KiTTy’s flexibility. Its script capabilities make it suitable for automating commands on remote devices.

Visit Website: http://kitty.9bis.net/

Download for Free: http://kitty.9bis.net/

3. MobaXterm

MobaXterm is an advanced terminal emulator with inbuilt X11 server integration, designed for Windows. It has a free version, ideal for home use and also a ‘Paid’ version for enterprises. Even though it is made for Microsoft Windows systems, it supports a few Linux/Unix commands. It comes with a wide range of functions for people who want to manage systems remotely including programmers, IT admins, webmasters, etc.

MobaXterm Features (Free Version):

Provides remote network tools such as VNC, RDP, FTP, SSH, X11, MOSH, etc.
Supports a few Unix/Linux commands (cat, ls, bash, grep, rsync, awk, etc.)
Embedded X11-Forwarding and X Server
Tabbed interface for SSH: Maximum 12 sessions
Built-in Text Editor, GUI File
Light and Portable: Does NOT require Installation
Maximum 4 macros
Offers two SSH tunnels
Maximum 360 seconds for Nfs, Tftp and Cron
Remote Session Manager
Remote Desktop Manager
Automatic SFTP browser
Plugins support

Some Extra Features Only Available in Professional (Paid) version:

Unlimited SSH sessions
Graphical SFTP browser
Customizable startup message and logo
Modify profile scripts
Remove unwanted tools, screensavers, games
12 months of solid Professional support
Lifetime right to use
Unlimited number of Tunnels
Unlimited Macros
Unlimited run time for network daemons
Master Password Support

Why do we recommend it?

In our thorough testing of MobaXterm, the tool proved to be an advanced terminal emulator with seamless X11 server integration. It resolved our challenge of managing systems remotely by offering a tabbed interface for up to 12 SSH sessions in the free version.

All the file transfers are carried out through SFTP protocol, whereas a terminal session is handled by X Server system. You can expand the MobaXterm’s abilities with the use of plug-ins, and even tunnel protocol with HTTPS.

Who is it recommended for?

MobaXterm is intended for both individual and enterprise use. Its free version caters to SMBs, while the paid version with additional features is suitable for enterprises with more extensive remote system management needs.

Visit website: https://mobaxterm.mobatek.net/

Download: https://mobaxterm.mobatek.net/download.html

4. mRemoteNG

mRemoteNG is yet another fork version of mRemote – which is an open-source remote connection manager. mRemoteNG has a few additional features and bug fixes to mRemote.

mRemoteNG Features:

Supports SSH, VNC, rLogin, Telnet, ICA, RDP, Telnet, HTTPS and other protocols
Free, open source
Tabbed interface, multi-protocol features
Simple, clean interface
Integrated secure file transfer; supports SFTP and SCP
Allows you to undock panels

Why do we recommend it?

During our evaluation of mRemoteNG, we appreciated its tabbed interface that efficiently managed multiple remote connections in a single powerful window. The tool’s regular updates ensured a reliable remote connection manager with added features. While supporting various communication systems, we recommend caution in using less secure protocols like rLogin and RDP over the Internet.

It runs on Windows, and also comes with various communication systems. But some of these, such as rLogin and RDP, are not so secure. Thus, it is recommended to NOT use these to access remote devices over the Internet. On a positive note, you can use SSH and HTTPS with mRemoteNG.

The application updates regularly, so you will have a highly reliable tool for remote connections.

Who is it recommended for?

mRemoteNG is recommended for users seeking a reliable remote desktop manager and SSH client with a simple UI. It’s suitable for basic remote connection needs and supports secure protocols like SSH and HTTPS.

The open-source nature of mRemoteNG makes it a free and accessible option for users. Its tabbed interface and support for various communication systems make it suitable for individual users, while its reliability and regular updates enhance its appeal to large businesses.

Visit website: https://mremoteng.org/

Download for Free: https://mremoteng.org/download

5. Xshell 6 Client

Xshell 6 is another powerful SSH client or terminal emulator that supports Telnet, SSH1, SSH2, rLogin, SFTP and SERIAL connections. This also makes it one of the better PuTTy alternatives due to its wide set of features! Xshell has a free version for home use, and there’s also a paid version available for businesses.

Xshell 6 Features:

Full CMD functionality
Launch multiple sessions at the same time with Xshell’s superior Session Manager
Tabbed Interface
Customization: Set key mappings, dock UI elements, define sessions and layouts
Apply ‘Highlight Sets’ to each session as per your needs
Uses PKCS#11 and GSSAPI authentication and encryption methods
Master Password feature
X11 Forwarding
Built-in terminal lock
Supports JScript, VBScript and Python
Custom Keyboard/Key Mappings

Why do we recommend it?

In our testing of Xshell 6, the tool emerged as a powerful SSH client with support for multiple connection types, including Telnet, SSH1, SSH2, rLogin, SFTP, and SERIAL. It successfully addressed our need for interacting with Unix and Linux environments from a Windows system. The tabbed interface, dynamic port forwarding, and various customization options made it a standout PuTTY alternative.

Who is it recommended for?

Xshell 6 is recommended for users seeking a feature-rich SSH client with support for various protocols. It’s suitable for Windows users who need to interact with Unix and Linux environments. The free version caters to home and school applications, while the paid version offers additional features for businesses.

Pricing: The Single User ‘Xshell 6’ License costs $99 and includes 1 years maintenance.

Visit website: https://www.netsarang.com/en/xshell/

Download: https://www.netsarang.com/en/xshell/

6. Bitvise SSH Client

Bitvise is a highly flexible SSH Client and a powerful PuTTy alternative with myriads of functions. Most importantly, it is Free to use. It is a Windows application with state-of-the-art terminal emulation as well as a file transfer system. It features command-line and graphical SFTP support; while the terminal emulator supports bvterm, vt100 and xterm protocols.

Bitvise SSH Client Features:

Free SSH Client with Graphical SFTP functionality
Dynamic Port Forwarding via HTTP or Socks proxy
Supports bvterm, xterm and vt100 protocols
Scriptable command line options
Supports DSA, RSA and ECDSA Public Key Authentication
FTP to SFTP Bridge
Supports SSO (Single Sign-On)
Remote Console
Portable

Why do we recommend it?

Bitvise SSH Client proved to be a highly flexible and powerful PuTTY alternative during our testing. It addressed our remote access needs with its state-of-the-art terminal emulation and file transfer system, protected by SSH protocol. The inclusion of advanced tunneling features, such as remote administration and dynamic port forwarding, added significant value to our remote connections. Most importantly, the command line version allows for FTP-to-SFTP bridge.

Who is it recommended for?

Bitvise SSH Client is recommended for users seeking a versatile and free SSH client. For businesses, Bitvise SSH Client provides a versatile solution for secure terminal emulation and file transfer. The advanced tunneling features, including remote administration and dynamic port forwarding, enhance the tool’s utility for managing remote servers and devices. The command-line version’s FTP-to-SFTP bridge feature adds an extra layer of functionality for businesses with diverse file transfer needs.

Visit website: https://www.bitvise.com/ssh-client

Download for Free: https://www.bitvise.com/ssh-client-download

7. PuTTyTray

PuTTy Tray is another fork version of PuTTy that has an amazing feature of minimizing to the system tray when not in use.

PuTTy Tray Features:

Supports URL hyperlinking
Minimizes to System Tray
Light and Portable Installation
Free, open-source
Customizable Icons
Blinking Tray Icon when receives a Bell Signal
Supports Android adb
Window Transparency can be configured
Includes ‘Always on Top’ Setting

Why do we recommend it?

PuTTyTray stood out in our testing for its unique feature of minimizing to the system tray when not in use, adding practicality to the tool. Despite not supporting file transfer, it proved to be a reliable and free option for secure SSH connections. The customizable icons and URL hyperlinking feature contributed to a user-friendly experience.

PuTTy Tray is a good PuTTy alternative, especially for users who want to seek advantage of the URL hyperlink integration. It is a free, open-source tool that runs on any Windows environment and you can set the tool to run directly on system startup. The only downside to this free tool is that the project has not been updated by the developer for a very long time.

Who is it recommended for?

PuTTyTray is recommended for users who prioritize practicality in their SSH client. The ability to minimize to the system tray and the inclusion of URL hyperlinking make it a convenient choice. While lacking file transfer functionality, its focus on secure SSH connections makes it a reliable choice for businesses seeking a lightweight and easy-to-use solution for secure remote access.

Visit website: https://puttytray.goeswhere.com/

Download: https://puttytray.goeswhere.com/

8. SuperPuTTy

SuperPuTTy is a GUI-based Windows Manager that is hosted on GitHub. It is mainly designed to provide the much-needed tabbed interface, as the standard PuTTy program lacks it. With this feature, you can easily access and manage various sessions through a tabbed window.

SuperPuTTy Features:

Supports SCP and SFTP methods for secure file transfer to the remote host
Supports SSH, rLogin, RAW and Telnet protocols for terminal emulation
Tabbed interface
Free, open-source
Customizable user interface
Tab manipulations feature allows you to move tabs
Set keyboard shortcuts for commonly used commands
PuTTy configuration integration

Why do we recommend it?

SuperPuTTy, a GUI-based Windows Manager, addresses the absence of a tabbed interface in the standard PuTTy program. During our testing, it provided an efficient way to access and manage multiple sessions through a tabbed window. The customizable UI and support for various protocols, including SSH, Telnet, RAW, and rLogin, made it a noteworthy PuTTY alternative. The secure file transfer functions in SuperPuTTy support SFTP and SCP methods.

It is an open-source program and absolutely free to download and use, and though SuperPuTTy is a potential PuTTy alternative, it should be noted that it has not been updated by developers for a long time.

Who is it recommended for?

While SuperPuTTy is not explicitly tailored for enterprise-level use, it can still offer business benefits for smaller teams or departments. Its tabbed interface simplifies session management, allowing users to access and manage various sessions through a single window. The tool’s customizable UI enhances user experience, making it a suitable choice for businesses with a focus on user-friendly SSH clients, albeit on a smaller scale.

Visit Website: https://github.com/jimradford/superputty

Download: https://github.com/jimradford/superputty/releases/tag/1.4.0.9

Conclusion

As we can see, there are a myriad of PuTTy alternatives available for Windows systems that come with terminal emulation as well as file transfer functionality.

For terminal emulation, you should only stick to SSH as it is protected with encryption. While for file transfers, SCP and SFTP are good options.

Most of these PuTTy alternatives are free to download and use; only a few of them offer paid versions.

For your remote access system needs, you can download one of the SSH clients or terminal emulators from the list above.