How to Connect to a Linux Server from Windows Without PuTTY

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You don’t need PuTTY to connect to a Linux server from Windows anymore.

For years, PuTTY has been the default SSH client on Windows. But today, modern tools make it possible to connect to Linux servers more easily, more visually, and without fighting outdated interfaces or confusing configurations.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

  • Why PuTTY is no longer the best option for Windows SSH
  • What modern alternatives exist on Windows for connecting to Linux servers
  • How to connect to a Linux server using visual SSH clients that save time
  • Step-by-step instructions for each method

Whether you’re a developer managing VPS servers, an IT admin connecting to remote systems, or a beginner learning server administration, these PuTTY alternatives for Windows offer better security, functionality, and user experience in 2025.

Why PuTTY Is No Longer the Best Option on Windows

PuTTY is not broken. It is simply outdated for modern server workflows.

For over 25 years, PuTTY has been the go-to tool for Windows users who need to SSH to Linux servers. It’s reliable, lightweight, and gets the job done. But in 2025, its limitations have become increasingly apparent.

Common PuTTY Limitations

1. Old User Interface

  • Looks like it’s from Windows 95 (because it is)
  • Hasn’t evolved much in 20+ years
  • Configuration requires navigating multiple confusing dialogs
  • No modern conveniences (tabs, themes, customization)

2. Manual SSH Key Management

  • Separate tool required (PuTTYgen) for key generation
  • Different key format (.ppk) from standard OpenSSH
  • No integration with Windows Credential Manager
  • Confusing for beginners

3. No Server Overview

  • One window per connection (no tabs)
  • Can’t see all your servers at once
  • No way to organize or group connections
  • Hard to manage multiple servers

4. Terminal Only

  • No file management (requires separate WinSCP)
  • No visual context of server state
  • Can’t see CPU, RAM, disk usage
  • Just a terminal window—nothing more

5. No Modern Server Management

  • No Docker container management
  • No process monitoring (PM2, systemd services)
  • No security scanning
  • No cron job scheduling
  • No integrated log viewer

For Simple Connections, PuTTY Works

PuTTY is perfectly fine if you:

  • Connect to servers once a month
  • Only need basic terminal access
  • Don’t mind the dated interface
  • Have no need for file management or monitoring

For Daily Server Management, It’s Frustrating

PuTTY becomes painful when you:

  • Manage multiple servers regularly
  • Need to edit files frequently (download-edit-upload cycle)
  • Want to see server health at a glance
  • Switch between many connections daily
  • Need integrated file management
  • Want modern security features

This is why many Windows users now look for alternatives to connect to Linux servers more efficiently.

For context on modern SSH best practices, SSH Academy provides comprehensive guides.

Modern Ways to Connect to a Linux Server from Windows

In 2025, Windows users have multiple excellent options for connecting to Linux servers without PuTTY:

Option 1: Windows Built-in OpenSSH

What: Native SSH client included in Windows 10/11
Best for: Command-line users, scripting, quick connections
Pros: Pre-installed, standard OpenSSH, no downloads
Cons: Command line only, no GUI, no visual context

Option 2: Visual SSH GUI Clients

What: Modern applications with visual interfaces (Server Explorer, Termius, etc.)
Best for: Daily server management, file editing, monitoring
Pros: Visual file management, server dashboards, modern UI
Cons: Requires installation (though lightweight)

Option 3: Windows Terminal

What: Microsoft’s modern terminal with tabs and customization
Best for: Power users who want better terminal experience
Pros: Tabs, themes, multiple shells, modern interface
Cons: Still command-line based, no file management

Option 4: Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)

What: Full Linux environment inside Windows
Best for: Developers who want native Linux tools
Pros: True Linux experience, all Linux commands
Cons: Requires WSL setup, still terminal-based

Let’s explore each method in detail.

Method 1: Windows Built-in OpenSSH

The best-kept secret: Windows 10 and 11 include SSH natively.

Recent versions of Windows include OpenSSH by default. This means you can connect to Linux servers from Windows without installing any additional software—no PuTTY required.

Check If OpenSSH Is Installed

Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and type:


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ssh -V

Expected output:


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OpenSSH_for_Windows_8.6p1, LibreSSL 3.4.3

If you see this, SSH is already installed on your Windows system.

Install OpenSSH (If Not Present)

If the command returns an error, install OpenSSH:

Via Windows Settings:

  1. Open Settings → Apps → Optional Features
  2. Click Add a feature
  3. Search for “OpenSSH Client”
  4. Click Install
  5. Wait 2-3 minutes
  6. Restart Command Prompt/PowerShell

Via PowerShell (as Administrator):


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Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name OpenSSH.Client~~~~0.0.1.0

Connect to Your Linux Server

Basic SSH connection command:


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ssh username@your-server-ip

Real example:


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ssh deploy@192.168.1.100

First-time connection will show security prompt:


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The authenticity of host '192.168.1.100' can't be established.
ECDSA key fingerprint is SHA256:abc123...
Are you sure you want to continue connecting (yes/no)?

Type “yes” and press Enter.

Enter your password when prompted:


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deploy@192.168.1.100's password: [type your password]

Success! You’re now connected to your Linux server from Windows.

Using SSH with Custom Port

If your server uses a non-standard SSH port:


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ssh -p 2222 username@server-ip

Connecting with SSH Key

If you have an SSH key configured:


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ssh -i C:\Users\YourName\.ssh\id_rsa username@server-ip

What You Can Do with Windows OpenSSH

Execute remote commands:


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ssh user@server "uptime"
ssh user@server "df -h"

File transfer with SCP:


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scp local-file.txt user@server:/remote/path/
scp user@server:/remote/file.txt C:\local\path\

Port forwarding (tunnel):


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ssh -L 8080:localhost:80 user@server

Advantages of Windows Native SSH

✅ Pre-installed on Windows 10 (1809+) and Windows 11
✅ Standard OpenSSH (same as Linux/Mac—compatible everywhere)
✅ No additional software needed
✅ Works in CMD and PowerShell
✅ Command-line scriptable
✅ Regular security updates from Microsoft
✅ Integrates with Windows features

Limitations of Command-Line SSH

❌ Pure command line – No visual context or GUI
❌ No server overview – Can’t see server status at a glance
❌ No file management – Requires separate tools for SFTP
❌ Single window – No tabs (need multiple windows)
❌ No assistance for beginners – Must know Linux commands
❌ Manual configuration – SSH keys and configs require manual setup

When to Use Windows OpenSSH

Windows OpenSSH is perfect for:

  • Quick one-off SSH connections
  • Scripting and automation tasks
  • Users comfortable with command line
  • When you only need terminal access
  • Minimal installation requirements

It’s less ideal for:

  • Daily server management
  • Visual file editing
  • Monitoring server resources
  • Managing multiple servers
  • Beginners learning Linux

Official guide: Microsoft OpenSSH documentation

Method 2: Server Explorer (Visual SSH Client)

Server Explorer is a modern SSH GUI client for Windows that provides visual server management—not just terminal access.

Unlike PuTTY or command-line SSH, Server Explorer connects to Linux servers and provides a complete visual interface for files, processes, Docker containers, security, and more.

What Server Explorer Provides

A visual interface for SSH server connections:

  • File browser (no more download-edit-upload)
  • Integrated SSH terminal (when you need it)
  • Server dashboard (CPU, RAM, disk at a glance)
  • Docker container management
  • PM2 process monitoring
  • Security scanner
  • Cron job scheduler
  • Real-time log viewer

No software is installed on your Linux server—everything runs on your Windows PC via secure SSH.

Step-by-Step: Connect to Linux Server with Server Explorer

server-explorer-on-windows-macos

Step 1: Install Server Explorer on Windows

Download and Install from:

Step 2: Add Your Linux Server

Click “Add Server” button

Enter server details:


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Server Name: Production Server (or any memorable name)
Host: 192.168.1.100 (your server IP or hostname)
Port: 22 (default SSH port, or custom if changed)
Username: deploy (your SSH username)
Password Or SSH Key : *************

All settings are stored securely on your Windows machine—never on a server.

Step 3: Connect

Click “Connect” → Establishes SSH connection

You now have:

  • ✅ Live SSH terminal (integrated)
  • ✅ Visual file browser (edit files in-place)
  • ✅ Server dashboard (CPU, RAM, disk graphs)
  • ✅ Access to Docker, PM2, logs, security tools
  • ✅ Clear server context (always know what’s happening)

This removes friction without hiding SSH itself.

What You Can Do with Server Explorer

File Management:

  • Browse files like Windows Explorer
  • Edit configuration files with syntax highlighting
  • Upload/download with drag-and-drop
  • Set permissions visually (no chmod memorization)
  • Search entire filesystem

Server Monitoring:

  • Real-time CPU/RAM/disk usage
  • Process list with resource consumption
  • Network activity monitoring
  • Historical graphs and trends

Docker Management:

  • View all containers and their status
  • Start/stop/restart containers
  • Live log streaming
  • Container filesystem browser
  • Manage images, volumes, networks

Security:

  • Automated security scan (18 checks)
  • SSH hardening recommendations
  • Firewall status
  • Open port analysis
  • Pending security updates

Process Management (PM2):

  • Node.js application monitoring
  • Restart services with one click
  • Live application logs
  • CPU/memory per process

Cron Jobs:

  • Visual cron scheduler
  • No cron syntax needed
  • See all scheduled tasks

Terminal Access:

  • Full SSH terminal when needed
  • Multiple terminal tabs
  • Command history
  • Integrated with file browser (copy paths)

Advantages Over PuTTY and Command-Line SSH

✅ Visual file management – Edit files directly, no download/upload
✅ Server overview – See health at a glance
✅ Modern UI – Intuitive, not overwhelming
✅ Integrated tools – Docker, PM2, security, cron in one app
✅ Easier SSH key management – Built-in key generation
✅ Multi-server – Switch between servers quickly
✅ Beginner-friendly – Visual context helps learning
✅ Time-saving – Common tasks are point-and-click

When to Use Server Explorer

Server Explorer is ideal if you:

  • Manage Linux VPS servers from Windows regularly
  • Want visual file management (not just terminal)
  • Need to monitor server health
  • Work with Docker containers or Node.js (PM2)
  • Prefer modern GUI over pure command line
  • Want all server tools in one place

Related guides:

Method 3: Windows Terminal

Windows Terminal is Microsoft’s modern terminal application with tabs, themes, and better SSH experience than Command Prompt.

If you prefer command-line SSH but want a modern interface, Windows Terminal transforms the SSH experience on Windows.

What Is Windows Terminal?

Windows Terminal is a free, modern terminal emulator from Microsoft that supports:

  • Multiple tabs (CMD, PowerShell, WSL, SSH in one window)
  • Split panes (multiple terminals side-by-side)
  • GPU-accelerated rendering (smooth scrolling, emoji support)
  • Customizable themes and colors
  • Unicode and emoji support
  • Configurable keybindings
  • Multiple shell profiles

It makes command-line SSH much more pleasant on Windows.

Install Windows Terminal

Method 1: Microsoft Store (Easiest)

  1. Open Microsoft Store
  2. Search “Windows Terminal”
  3. Click Install (free)
  4. Launch from Start Menu

Method 2: winget (Command Line)


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winget install Microsoft.WindowsTerminal

Connect to Linux Server via Windows Terminal

Open Windows Terminal and type:


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ssh username@server-ip

Windows Terminal advantages over regular Command Prompt:

  • Tabs for multiple SSH connections
  • Better copy/paste (Ctrl+Shift+C/V)
  • Customizable themes
  • Split panes (multiple servers visible)
  • Modern font rendering

Create SSH Connection Profiles

Save SSH connections as Windows Terminal profiles for one-click access.

Edit settings:

  1. Open Windows Terminal
  2. Press Ctrl + , (opens settings)
  3. Click “Open JSON file” in bottom-left
  4. Add SSH profiles to profiles.list:

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{
    "guid": "{unique-guid-here}",
    "name": "Production Server",
    "commandline": "ssh deploy@prod.example.com",
    "icon": "🖥️"
},
{
    "guid": "{another-unique-guid}",
    "name": "Staging Server",
    "commandline": "ssh deploy@staging.example.com",
    "icon": "🔧"
}

Generate unique GUIDs at: guidgenerator.com

Now you can:

  • Click ▼ next to new tab button
  • Select “Production Server” or “Staging Server”
  • Instant SSH connection

Customize Windows Terminal for SSH

Change theme: Settings → Appearance → Theme (Light, Dark, or custom)

Change font: Settings → Profiles → Defaults → Appearance → Font face

Popular SSH fonts:

  • Cascadia Code (default, excellent)
  • Fira Code (programming ligatures)
  • JetBrains Mono (clean, readable)

Enable transparency: Settings → Profiles → Defaults → Appearance → Transparency

Advantages of Windows Terminal for SSH

✅ Modern interface (tabs, themes, customization)
✅ Multiple connections in one window
✅ Split panes (see multiple servers)
✅ Saved profiles (one-click connections)
✅ Better rendering (GPU-accelerated)
✅ Free from Microsoft

Limitations

❌ Still command-line – No visual file management
❌ No server monitoring – Terminal only
❌ No Docker/PM2 integration
❌ Requires command knowledge

Best for: Users comfortable with command line who want modern terminal experience.

Official guide: Windows Terminal documentation

Method 4: Other SSH GUI Tools for Windows

Beyond Server Explorer, several other visual SSH clients exist for Windows:

Termius (Cross-Platform)

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Price: Free (basic) / $10/month (Pro)
Best for: Mobile SSH access

Features:

  • Cloud sync across devices
  • SFTP client built-in
  • Port forwarding GUI
  • Modern interface

Pros: Mobile apps, cross-platform
Cons: Limited server management, subscription pricing

Website: termius.com

MobaXterm (Windows Power Tool)

Platform: Windows only
Price: Free (Home)
Best for: Power users, X11 forwarding

Features:

  • Tabbed interface
  • X11 server built-in
  • SFTP sidebar
  • Network tools included
  • Session recording

Pros: Feature-packed, free version available
Cons: Overwhelming for beginners, dated UI

Website: mobaxterm.mobatek.net

Bitvise SSH Client (Windows SFTP Focus)

Platform: Windows only
Price: Free (personal use)
Best for: SFTP + terminal combo

Features:

  • Terminal + SFTP in one app
  • Port forwarding GUI
  • SSH key management
  • Stable and professional

Pros: Free, reliable, SFTP integrated
Cons: UI dated, limited to file transfer + terminal

Website: bitvise.com

Related: Best SSH GUI Tools for MacOS and Windows (2026 Edition) (internal link)

PuTTY vs Modern Alternatives: Quick Comparison

Feature PuTTY Windows OpenSSH Windows Terminal Server Explorer
Visual file management ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ Advanced
File editing ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ Syntax highlighting
Modern UI ❌ 1990s ❌ CLI ✅ Modern CLI ✅ Modern GUI
Tabbed connections ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
Server dashboard ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ CPU/RAM/Disk
Docker management ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
Security scanning ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ 18 checks
SSH key management Manual (PuTTYgen) Manual Manual ✅ Built-in
Beginner-friendly ❌ ❌ ⚠️ CLI ✅
Installation Download Pre-installed Microsoft Store Download/Store
Price Free Free Free Paid
Best for Legacy systems Quick CLI SSH Modern CLI users Visual management

This is not about replacing SSH. It’s about using SSH more efficiently.

SSH Key Setup on Windows

SSH keys are more secure than passwords and work with all SSH methods.

Why Use SSH Keys?

✅ More secure – Can’t be brute-forced
✅ No password typing – Automatic authentication
✅ Revocable – Disable without changing passwords
✅ Required for many production servers

Generate SSH Key on Windows

Using Windows OpenSSH (Recommended):


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ssh-keygen -t ed25519 -C "your-email@example.com"

Follow prompts:


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Enter file in which to save the key: [Press Enter for default]
Enter passphrase: [Optional but recommended]
Enter same passphrase again: [Confirm]

Keys are saved to:

  • Private key: C:\Users\YourName\.ssh\id_ed25519
  • Public key: C:\Users\YourName\.ssh\id_ed25519.pub

Copy Public Key to Linux Server

Method 1: Manual Copy

Display your public key:


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type C:\Users\YourName\.ssh\id_ed25519.pub

SSH to your server (with password) and run:


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mkdir -p ~/.ssh
echo "paste-your-public-key-here" >> ~/.ssh/authorized_keys
chmod 700 ~/.ssh
chmod 600 ~/.ssh/authorized_keys

Method 2: Using ssh-copy-id (if available in Windows):


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ssh-copy-id username@server-ip

Test SSH Key Connection


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ssh -i C:\Users\YourName\.ssh\id_ed25519 username@server-ip

If successful, you connect without password.

Use SSH Key with Server Explorer

  1. Add server in Server Explorer
  2. Choose “SSH Key” authentication
  3. Browse to C:\Users\YourName\.ssh\id_ed25519
  4. Enter key passphrase (if set)
  5. Connect

Server Explorer remembers the key—no need to specify it again.

Comprehensive guide: DigitalOcean SSH Key Setup

Which Method Should You Choose?

Choose based on your needs and comfort level:

Choose Windows OpenSSH (Built-in CLI) If:

✅ You only need terminal access
✅ You’re comfortable with command line
✅ You want zero additional software
✅ You need scripting capabilities
✅ Quick one-off connections are your main use

Choose Windows Terminal If:

✅ You want modern CLI with tabs
✅ You manage multiple servers
✅ You like command line but want better UX
✅ You want customization (themes, fonts)
✅ You’re a PowerShell or WSL user

Choose Server Explorer (Visual GUI) If:

✅ You manage servers daily
✅ You want visual file management
✅ You need Docker or PM2 monitoring
✅ You prefer GUI over pure CLI
✅ You want server health dashboards
✅ You’re learning Linux administration
✅ You want security scanning

Choose PuTTY If:

✅ You’re on a very old Windows version
✅ You need absolute minimum installation
✅ You’re already familiar with it
✅ You don’t mind the dated interface

For most Windows users managing Linux servers in 2025, Server Explorer or Windows Terminal are the best options.

Do You Still Need PuTTY?

In some cases, PuTTY is fine:

✅ Very old Windows environments (pre-Windows 10 1809)
✅ One-off connections on locked-down machines
✅ You’re already comfortable with it and don’t manage servers often
✅ Absolute minimum software footprint required

But for modern Windows setups managing Linux servers regularly, there’s no strong reason to stay with PuTTY as your main tool.

Modern alternatives offer:

  • Better security (proper credential storage)
  • Visual context (see what you’re doing)
  • File management (no separate tools)
  • Server monitoring (CPU, RAM, disk)
  • Modern UI (easier to use)
  • Time savings (visual workflows)

PuTTY served Windows users well for 25 years. It’s time to move forward.

Conclusion

Connecting to a Linux server from Windows without PuTTY is not only possible—it’s often better.

Modern SSH tools for Windows provide:

✅ Cleaner workflow – Visual file management, integrated tools
✅ Better visibility – Server dashboards, resource monitoring
✅ Fewer mistakes – Visual confirmation, guided workflows
✅ Faster daily operations – Point-and-click for common tasks
✅ Modern experience – Tabs, themes, intuitive interfaces

You still use SSH. You just stop fighting outdated tools.

Quick Recommendations

For beginners: Start with Server Explorer (visual guidance)
For CLI users: Use Windows Terminal (modern terminal experience)
For quick connections: Use Windows OpenSSH (pre-installed)
For mobile access: Use Termius (cross-platform sync)

If you manage Linux servers from Windows regularly, it’s time to move beyond PuTTY.

Get Started with Modern SSH on Windows

Ready to connect to Linux servers the modern way?

Download Server Explorer

logo

Try Server Explorer Today

Manage your servers with just a few clicks. Replace complex command-line operations with an intuitive interface, while maintaining the performance and security of traditional SSH access.

Dowload on Apple Store
Get it from Microsoft Store

What you get: ✅ Visual file browser with syntax highlighting
✅ Integrated SSH terminal
✅ Server dashboard (CPU/RAM/disk)
✅ Docker container management
✅ PM2 process monitoring
✅ Security scanner (18 automated checks)
✅ Cron job scheduler
✅ Multi-server management

Available for Windows. Free trial included.

Connect to your Linux servers from Windows the modern way—without PuTTY’s limitations. Download Server Explorer at serverexplorer.ledocdev.com

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