You connect to a Linux server over SSH. This is a secure connection through which you run commands on the server from your own computer, and everything sent over it is encrypted. To connect, you need a program called an SSH client.
There are dozens of clients, but most people are well served by one of three proven ones, PuTTY, Termius or MobaXterm. Below we explain how they differ and help you choose the right one.
Comparison in one table
| PuTTY | Termius | MobaXterm | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Systems | Windows | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows |
| Price | Free | Free, Pro by subscription | Free, Professional as a one-off purchase |
| Tabs | No, each server in its own window | Yes | Yes |
| File transfer | Via the command line | Built-in SFTP | File panel next to the terminal |
| SSH keys | Its own .ppk format, created in PuTTYgen | Created and sent to the server in a couple of clicks | Supported |
| Sync between devices | No | On the Pro plan | No |
PuTTY
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The PuTTY settings window
PuTTY is a legend among SSH clients for Windows. It is free and open source, very small, and runs even on very old computers. The interface looks like it comes from the 2000s, but there is nothing superfluous in it.
PuTTY comes with some useful utilities:
- PuTTYgen creates SSH keys;
- Pageant keeps keys in memory so you don't have to enter the key password on every connection;
- PSCP and PSFTP copy files to the server and back from the command line.
Where to download PuTTY
You can download PuTTY from two official places:
- putty.software – the developers' official website;
- Microsoft Store – the official version from Simon Tatham, handy if the website doesn't open.
The putty.org website does not belong to the PuTTY developers, so it is best not to download from there.
- Free and open source, with no ads and no sign-up.
- Runs on any version of Windows, and there is a version for ARM processors.
- Besides SSH, it supports Telnet, Rlogin and connections through a COM port.
Termius
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The server list in Termius
Termius is a modern client that works on both computers and phones. Servers appear as neat cards that you can sort into groups and mark with tags. Keys are kept in a separate keychain, and you can send a key to the server without typing a single command.
The free Starter plan is enough for everyday work, and it includes SSH, SFTP and port forwarding.
The paid Pro plan adds syncing of servers and keys across all your devices.
Where to download Termius
Termius is available for computers and phones:
- termius.com/download – for Windows, macOS and Linux;
- App Store – for iPhone and iPad;
- Google Play – for Android.
- One app for Windows, macOS, Linux, iPhone and Android.
- Creates SSH keys and adds them to the server by itself.
- Built-in SFTP for transferring files, and a split screen for several terminals.
- A tidy interface that is easy for beginners to find their way around.
MobaXterm
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MobaXterm with an open SSH session
MobaXterm is a real all-in-one toolbox for Windows. Besides SSH, it has RDP remote desktop, VNC, FTP, a built-in X server for graphical programs from the server, and familiar Linux commands right in Windows. Everything works in tabs, and sessions can be sorted into folders.
The handiest thing for working with a VPS is the file panel. As soon as you connect over SSH, the server's file manager opens on the left, and you can drag and drop files with your mouse.
Where to download MobaXterm
The free Home edition is available on the official website. It comes in two versions.
Installer is installed like a normal program.
Portable runs without installation, for example from a USB stick.
- Tabs, session folders and running one command on several servers at once.
- The SFTP panel opens automatically when you connect.
- RDP, VNC and SSH in one program, which is handy if you have both Linux and Windows servers.
- There is a portable version that runs without installation.
Built-in SSH in Windows, macOS and Linux
If you only need to connect occasionally, you don't have to install anything at all. On macOS and Linux, the ssh command is available in the standard Terminal app.
On Windows 10 and 11, it works in PowerShell.
# Connect to the server as the root user.
# Replace 203.0.113.10 with your server's IP address
ssh root@203.0.113.10On the first connection, the system asks whether you trust the server. Type yes and press Enter, then enter the password. The password characters don't appear as you type, and that is normal.
Command not found on Windows?
If PowerShell says that the ssh command is not found, the OpenSSH client isn't installed. Open Start, search for Optional features, add the OpenSSH Client feature and restart PowerShell.
Which client to choose
- Termius, if you want one convenient client on your computer and phone. It is a good choice for beginners.
- PuTTY, if you use Windows and need a simple free client without extra features.
- MobaXterm, if you use Windows, have several servers and often work with files.
- Built-in SSH, if you connect now and then and don't want to install anything.
How to connect securely
- Log in with an SSH key instead of a password. We explained how to create a key and turn off password login in the article Logging in with SSH keys and a separate user.
- Download clients only from official websites or app stores. Fake builds of popular programs can steal the passwords to your servers.
- Don't save the server password in a client on someone else's computer or a shared one.
- Keep your client up to date, because vulnerabilities are found in old versions over time.
More security tips are collected in the article How to protect a server from unauthorised access.
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