SSH is an integral tool you need to access servers, switches, and routers among other network systems. Here we present top 5 SSH clients for Mac OS X and Windows.
Whether you are running Windows or Mac, SSH can easily be integrated into the system. The client program is primarily for logging in and executing commands from the credentials stage. SSH guarantees exclusive and safe access of data irrespective of your locations.
If you have the administrator privileges of accessing the server, you can view all other end user devices connected on the network and control their resources access. Also, end user devices can use advanced tools of SSH to gain exclusive access to a router hence manipulate system settings to suit personal needs.
SSH programs vary on size, features, and price. Also, some SSH clients are restricted to certain locations. However, most of the programs are available for free and you only have to pay for selected commercial features if you need them. The advanced and modern features for commercial use are often indicated and offered as a choice to users.
Before choosing an SSH client, you should first consider your OS. Some are compatible on all platforms while some are restricted.
Here is a selection of the best SSH clients for Windows and Mac:
Solar-PuTTY
If you need to run multiple sessions in one console, this is a great option for your network needs. The SSH client stores your credentials, which makes it possible to log in any time of the day irrespective of your location without need to enter your credentials. The automatic log in and access is irrespective of the number of times you log in.
Besides, the client gives you access to a rich history of your connections and any form of activity you might be interested in a specific network. It provides details of end user devices, resources requests and other details on devices on the same network. Whether it is on a router or server, multiple sessions are supported.
There is a quick search option for both Windows and Mac users.
Besides SSH services, the client offers support for SCP, Telnet, and SFTP TFP protocols.
One of the reasons for its popularity is the simple and friendly interface. It is easy to switch between tabs and run multiple sessions just like you do with a browser. Solar-PuTTY makes it possible to keep switching sessions without losing data or connection; also, you won’t have to log in afresh when you come back to previous session. The interface starts with a homepage that allows users to quickly select and access sessions. Saving credentials on the platform ensures quick launch of a connection through the SSH client.
Also, the ability to customize colors and organize sessions makes Solar-PuTTY popular.
PuTTY
The terminal program supports SSH client, SFTP, rlogin, and telnet on Windows. It is also an effective platform for grouping remote connections on Mac. The flexibility of its structure attributes to its wide use by network administrators.
Most administrators working with Unix system and VMware find this tool useful because of its quick and secure access lines. It can also function on routers and switches. Unlike other SSH clients, PuTTY saves more than user credentials; it stores session logging and session configuration settings. Each user has exclusive access to specific settings and history of use depending on settings and accorded privileges on the network. It also allows screen customization.
The SSH client can run on both 64 bit and 32 bit platforms.
The design is simple hence ease of use. User interface is customized to suit novices in the field as well as experts. The quick save component allows quick access even without your credentials in store.
PuTTY is considered the best for starter network administrators.
SecureCRT
The design of this client is traditional. The design may not match modern standards but there is no question on its effectiveness and efficiency. In fact, it is among the best SSH clients as a system administrator.
The commercial SSH client provides a simple user interface. There are no major enhancements like other products in this category. The focus of SecureCRT is exclusive access. It supports SSH2, TAPI protocol, SSH1, serial, Rlogin, and Telnet.
It does not require configurations, since access is simple as one click. Other features other than multiple session management include; line wrapping, color customization, paste confirmation, encryption enhancements, drag and drop sessions, as well as lists of resent sessions.
Just like most of SSH clients, MobaXterm supports FTP, SFTP, RDP, VNC, Telnet, and Rlogin. However, enhanced features of the tool make it popular for network managers.
The enhancements include plugin support, multi-execution, ssh tunnels, ssh gateway, text editor, and x server among other interesting features.
Also, the terminal allows enhancement of keywords with different colors on preferred syntax. Users are free to create their own syntax and define keywords with any color.
The interface of MobaXterm has all the enhancements suitable for experts and advanced network management.
mRemoteNG
This SSH client supports multiple connections and all types of protocols. Raw sockets, VNC, and ICA are among the distinguishing protocol support features of this tool.
Users can open multiple tabs just like on a browser. Credentials can also be stored and session organized in a folder.
The design of this client is traditional. The design may not match modern standards but there is no question on its effectiveness and efficiency. In fact, it is among the best SSH clients as a system administrator.
Just like most of SSH clients, MobaXterm supports FTP, SFTP, RDP, VNC, Telnet, and Rlogin. However, enhanced features of the tool make it popular for network managers.
