Top 10+ Alternatives for PuTTY in 2025
Top 10+ Alternatives for PuTTY in 2025
PuTTY has long been the go-to SSH and telnet client for Windows users. It’s lightweight, reliable, and gets the job done. But in recent years, a wide range of PuTTY alternatives have emerged, offering better user interfaces, more features, and cross-platform compatibility. If you’re hunting for the best PuTTY alternatives in 2025, you’re in the right place! Let’s explore the top options to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
1. MobaXterm
MobaXterm is an all-in-one network tool designed for professionals. It supports SSH, X11, RDP, VNC, FTP, and more. The integrated X server and handy session management make it one of the best PuTTY alternatives out there.
- Tabbed interface for managing multiple sessions easily
- Built-in X11 server for graphical applications
- Support for SSH, FTP, RDP, Telnet, and more
- Portable version available
2. Termius
Termius brings modern SSH to Windows, macOS, and mobile devices. Its clean interface and robust features make managing remote servers feel effortless.
- Sleek, cross-platform user interface
- Group hosts and organize them by tags
- SFTP support for file transfers
- End-to-end encrypted credentials
3. KiTTY
KiTTY is a fork of PuTTY with extra features and customization. It’s compatible with Windows only but extends PuTTY’s original functionalities.
- Session filtering and launcher
- Automated scripts and macros
- Portable edition
- Built-in chat and text editor
4. Bitvise SSH Client
Bitvise SSH Client is another powerful SSH client for Windows users. It offers a modern interface, excellent SFTP features, and customization for advanced users.
- Tabbed multiple terminal support
- Graphical SFTP client and terminal access
- Rich authentication options
- Integrated remote desktop forwarding
5. Solar-PuTTY
Solar-PuTTY is a free tool from SolarWinds, designed as a modern alternative to PuTTY. It gives you an easy way to manage sessions with a slick tabbed interface.
- Tabbed sessions for managing multiple connections
- Session search and auto-reconnect
- Credential management
- Supports SSH, SCP, SFTP and Telnet protocols
6. SecureCRT
SecureCRT is a commercial grade terminal emulator with robust security, scripting, and session management, making it a favorite among IT professionals.
- High-level encryption and protocol support
- Advanced scripting and automation
- Tabbed and tiled session windows
- Customizable UI themes
7. OpenSSH
OpenSSH is the backbone of secure remote administration on Linux and now on Windows too. While it lacks a GUI, it’s powerful, flexible, and trusted worldwide.
- Native to most UNIX systems and now available for Windows
- Comes with both client and server
- High-level security and flexibility
- Includes SCP and SFTP for file transfers
8. SmarTTY
SmarTTY is a pleasant SSH client for Windows, known for its multi-tabbed feature and built-in file management.
- Tabbed SSH sessions
- Graphical file manager over SSH
- Supports SCP and one-click remote editing
- Directly transfer entire directories
9. Xshell
Xshell brings a professional look and advanced features to your terminal management with support for multiple protocols and scripting.
- User-friendly tabbed environment
- Supports SSH, SFTP, RLOGIN, TELNET, and SERIAL
- Dynamic port forwarding
- Script recording and playback
10. mRemoteNG
mRemoteNG is an open-source, multi-protocol remote connections manager that wraps SSH, RDP, VNC, and more in one handy interface.
- Tabbed, hierarchical session management
- Supports SSH, RDP, VNC, ICA, and more
- Credential and configuration management
- Open-source and community-driven
11. ZOC Terminal
ZOC Terminal is a professional terminal emulator that offers versatility and a wide range of emulations for network administrators.
- Support for SSH, Telnet, serial and more
- Tabbed sessions and scripting capabilities
- Modern, customizable interface
- Rich logging and scripting for automation
Which PuTTY Alternative is Right for You?
Choosing the right product depends on your needs. If you love rich GUIs and managing multiple sessions, give MobaXterm or Xshell a try. Need something portable? KiTTY and MobaXterm are great. Want to save money? Consider the open-source options like OpenSSH, mRemoteNG, or SmarTTY.
With so many PuTTY alternatives available in 2025, there’s a tool to suit every style. Explore these options and take your terminal experience to the next level!
