When it comes to secure remote connection OpenSSH and PuTTY are preferred. Both tools serve the same function to enable remote access, but there is a huge difference between their features, and use. So, let’s compare OpenSSH and PuTTY:
Overview of OpenSSH and PuTTY
OpenSSH is an open source that provide secure remote connection. It was developed by the team members of OpenBSD. It supports SSH, SCP, and SFTP connections. Openssh has the ability to encrypt the connection between computers.
PuTTY is a terminal emulator SSH client used for secure connection between the local PC and remote system. It supports SSH, SFTP, SCP, Telnet, rlogin, and serial connection. It is a free and lightweight tool which makes it a preferred choice for users.
User-Interface
OpenSSH is used through the command line interface. It allows usesr multiple sessions in the single window.
PuTTY offers more graphical user-friendly interface. It has built-in multi session management. You can configure and save the sessions. This allows you to connect to remote server fast.
Suitable for Multiple Platform
OpenSSH and PuTTY both available operating system like Windows, Linux, and Mac.
Price
OpenSSH and PuTTY both are free and open-source.
File Transfer
OpenSSH has file transfer services like ‘scp’ and ‘sftp’ that allows user to safely transfer data between local and remote system.
PuTTY uses the separate tools ‘pscp’ and ‘psftp’ for file transfer. These tools are part of the PuTTY suite and used in separate terminal Windows. PuTTY itself does not support file transfer.
SSH Key Management
OpenSSH provides command line interface for generating and managing keys like ssh keygen.
PuTTY has a ‘PuTTYgen’ component for generating and managing keys. It also converts the key from one format to another format.
Summary
OpenSSH is a widely used powerful tool that offers a wide range of features built-in file transfer capabilities, and SSH key generation. It has very large community and integrates with various tools. While PuTTY is a lightweight tool, provides the graphical interface for secure connection between two remote servers. Choosing one of them depends upon the specific needs of the user.