The best SSH Clients for Windows
We installed each app on a clean Windows PC and checked install size, interface, file compatibility and support status. The order follows GramFile editor and user ratings.
-
PuTTY
A free Windows tool (SSH Client) that opens a secure digital doorway to other linux computers.
PuTTY isn’t for everyone. While it’s a free, secure, and incredibly versatile tool for remote access on Windows, its command-line interface presents a learning curve. If you’re comfortable with text-based interaction and value customization, PuTTY empowers you with advanced featur… Read full review
Download PuTTY- Free
- Secure
- Portable
- Tweak interface
- Automate tasks
- Advanced features for power users
- Command-line
- Limited graphics
- DIY support
-
Tera Term
A free, lightweight terminal emulator that lets you type and read stuff from other computers, directly.
Tera Term stands out as a reliable, lightweight, and versatile terminal emulator for Windows, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced users. Its simplicity, combined with powerful features like support for multiple protocols (SSH, Telnet, Serial), scripting capabilities, and a… Read full review
Download Tera Term- Free. Costs nothing.
- Works for many things. Connects to servers, devices.
- Simple to use. Basic, but effective.
- Old, but still updated. Reliable, keeps going.
- Macros. Automate tasks easily.
- Logging. Keeps track of your work.
- Old look.
- Setup needed.
- Telnet risk.
- Tech needed.
- Plugins for more.
- Initial config.
-
MobaXterm
Free Windows terminal combining SSH, X11 server, and Unix tools.
MobaXterm earns its download numbers honestly. It replaces three or four separate remote-access tools with one that doesn’t get in your way, and the free tier covers real work, not just a crippled demo. The session cap is the only real limitation, and it only becomes a problem once you’… Read full review
Download MobaXterm- Free Home Edition, no time limit
- SSH, X11, and file transfer combined
- Portable edition needs no install
- Unix commands work without WSL
- Session manager keeps connections organized
- Free version caps sessions at 12
- Professional license costs extra per seat
- Windows only, no native Mac version
All listed SSH Clients
Every app we list has a verified download.
-
Tera Term 5.7.1
A free, lightweight terminal emulator that lets you type and read stuff from other computers, directly.
-
MobaXterm 26.5.0.5542
Free Windows terminal combining SSH, X11 server, and Unix tools.
-
PuTTY 0.85.0.0
A free Windows tool (SSH Client) that opens a secure digital doorway to other linux computers.
How we test SSH Clients
Every app goes through the same four steps, and we re-check it whenever a new version ships or Microsoft changes its support dates.
Source the installer
Taken from the official developer or a GramFile-verified mirror, never third-party uploads.
Scan for threats
Checked with multiple engines, including VirusTotal, for malware, adware and bundleware.
Test the install
Installed on Windows 11 and 10.
Publishing
Listed with accurate version info, system requirements, file size, and technical info.