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PuTTY is a widely-used, open-source, lightweight, and free SSH client and terminal emulator. Created by Simon Tatham using the C programming language, its main purpose is to enable remote computer connections while providing file transfer and data manipulation capabilities.
PuTTY supports various network protocols, including SSH, Telnet, Serial, SCP, and SFTP. It also includes a command-line tool called “psftp” for secure file transfer between computers over an SSH connection. PuTTY is compatible with most operating systems, both 32-bit and 64-bit.
Operating Systems that Support PuTTY:
- Windows 95, 98
- Windows ME, NT
- Windows 2000, 2003, 2008
- Windows XP
- Windows Vista
- Mac OSX
Usage of PuTTY
In multi-user operating systems like Unix, the interface is typically command-line based, similar to the command prompt or MS-DOS. Users must enter commands into the command line to have them processed by the system.
These commands can usually be executed over a network from a remote computer (client), with the response being sent back to the client over the network.
This setup is made possible by network protocols like SSH, Telnet, and Rlogin. Notably, users can issue commands to multiple computers simultaneously.
The SSH (Secure Shell) protocol is a cryptographic network protocol that provides secure access to an internet server while encrypting any data sent to it. Other protocols like Telnet and Rlogin can be used if you’re connected to a Unix system or have a login account on a web server (a shell account). PuTTY is an application that facilitates this type of communication.
PuTTY Supports the Following Protocols:
- SCP (Secure Copy)
- SSH (Secure Shell)
- Telnet
- Rlogin
- Raw socket connection
Features
- SSH, Telnet, and Serial Support: PuTTY supports SSH, Telnet, and serial connections, making it adaptable for a variety of tasks.
- Session Management: Save and manage multiple sessions for quick access to frequently used connections.
- Secure Authentication: Utilize multiple authentication methods, including passwords, public keys, and agent forwarding, to keep your connections secure.
- X11 Forwarding: Run graphical applications from remote servers on your local machine with X11 forwarding enabled.
- Dynamic Port Forwarding: Set up dynamic SSH tunnels to bypass network restrictions and securely access resources.
- Customization: Personalize the program’s appearance and behavior, including customizable fonts, colors, and key bindings.
- Transfers: Securely transfer files using SCP, SFTP, and even raw binary transfers with the included tools.
- Scripting and Automation: Automate tasks with PuTTY’s command-line interface (CLI) and scripting features.
- Unicode Support: PuTTY handles Unicode characters effectively, ensuring compatibility with international character sets.
- Public Key Generator: Easily create SSH key pairs within the tool for enhanced security.
PROS
- Open source and completely free
- Includes a command line interface
- Supports various client protocols
- Provides terminal emulation
CONS
- Can be complex for novice users
- Does not support script sequences
Installing PuTTY on Windows
After successfully downloading PuTTY on Windows, follow these steps to install it:
- Double-click the downloaded .msi file to start the setup process.
Click “Next” and choose the installation path.
Select the features you want to install and click “Install.”
Click “Finish” to complete the installation and close the setup window.
FAQ’s
What is PuTTY and what is it used for?
PuTTY is a popular, open-source, and free SSH client and terminal emulator created by Simon Tatham. It allows users to connect to remote computers, transfer files, and manipulate data over various network protocols such as SSH, Telnet, Serial, SCP, and SFTP.
What operating systems support PuTTY?
PuTTY is compatible with a range of operating systems, including Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000, 2003, 2008, XP, and Vista, as well as Mac OSX. It works with both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
What network protocols does PuTTY support?
PuTTY supports several network protocols, including SSH (Secure Shell), Telnet, Serial, SCP (Secure Copy), and SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol). It also includes a command-line tool called “psftp” for secure file transfers.
Can PuTTY handle graphical applications?
Yes, PuTTY supports X11 forwarding, which allows you to run graphical applications from remote servers on your local machine.
How does PuTTY handle secure file transfers?
PuTTY includes tools for secure file transfers using SCP, SFTP, and even raw binary transfers. The command-line tool “psftp” is specifically designed for secure file transfer over SSH.
Is PuTTY suitable for automating tasks?
Yes, PuTTY’s command-line interface (CLI) and scripting capabilities allow users to automate various tasks, making it a powerful tool for scripting and automation.
How can I customize PuTTY to fit my needs?
PuTTY allows extensive customization, including changing fonts, colors, and key bindings. You can tailor its appearance and behavior to suit your preferences through its settings.
Conclusion
PuTTY is a powerful and versatile tool for secure remote access and file transfer. Its open-source nature and support for various protocols make it ideal for both casual and professional use. While it may be complex for beginners and lacks script sequence support, its extensive features and wide compatibility ensure it remains a top choice for managing remote connections effectively.
