Introduction
PuTTY, a widely used open-source terminal emulator, facilitates secure communication between a client and a server over various network protocols. While it is primarily known for its compatibility with Windows, users can also leverage PuTTY on Ubuntu to establish secure and reliable connections. With this guide, you will acquire insights into the comprehensive steps on how to install PuTTY on Ubuntu.
How PuTTY Works as SSH Client
PuTTY, a versatile and widely-used terminal emulator, excels as an SSH (Secure Shell) client on Ubuntu, offering a seamless way to connect to remote servers securely. Understanding the intricacies of how PuTTY operates as an SSH client can enhance your experience in managing remote systems.
PuTTY and Secure Shell (SSH)
1. Secure Communication:
PuTTY employs the SSH protocol, a cryptographic network protocol that ensures secure communication over unsecured networks. SSH encrypts data during transmission, providing confidentiality & integrity, making it an apt option for remote access.
2. Authentication Mechanism:
PuTTY supports numerous authentication methodologies, incorporating password-based & key-based authentication. Users can pick the most preferable process according to their security preferences and server configurations.
Install PuTTY on Ubuntu Using Terminal
PuTTY, a renowned terminal emulator, offers a seamless way to connect to remote servers on Ubuntu. The following step-by-step guide will take you through the process of how to install PuTTY on Ubuntu using the terminal.
Step 1: Enable Universe Repository
Before proceeding with PuTTY installation, it’s imperative to activate the Universe repository, a collection of community-maintained packages that expands your software options. This step opens the gate to a varied array of applications and tools. In the terminal, execute the following command:
sudo add-apt-repository universe
This command not only enables the Universe repository but also ensures that your Ubuntu system is ready to access and install PuTTY from this repository.
Step 2: Update Package Repository
Maintaining an updated package repository is crucial for acquiring the latest software versions and maintaining system compatibility. Execute the following command to synchronize your system with the latest information from the Ubuntu repositories:
sudo apt update
This command initiates a refresh of the package lists, ensuring that you have the most recent information about available packages, dependencies, and updates
Step 3: Install PuTTY
With the Universe repository enabled and the package lists updated, proceed to install PuTTY using the following command:
sudo apt install putty
This command triggers the download and installation process for PuTTY along with its necessary dependencies. The installation is typically swift, providing you with a fully functional PuTTY application on your Ubuntu system.
Step 4: Verify Installation
To confirm the successful installation of PuTTY, check its version using the following command:
putty --version
This command displays the installed PuTTY version, offering assurance that the installation process is completed without any issues. It’s a crucial step to ensure PuTTY is ready for use in managing remote servers.
Also Read: 50+ Linux Commands with Screenshots
Run PuTTY
Now that you’ve successfully installed PuTTY on your Ubuntu system, let’s delve into the practical steps of running PuTTY and initiating secure connections to remote servers. PuTTY, renowned for its simplicity and versatility, offers a human-friendly interface to drive hassle-free communication.
Launching PuTTY:
1. Terminal Command:
To open PuTTY from the terminal, directly type the given command:
puttyThis command launches the PuTTY application and opens the configuration window, providing a convenient way to enter connection details.
2. Application Launcher:
Alternatively, if you prefer a graphical approach, you can use the application launcher. Search for “PuTTY” in the launcher, and click on the PuTTY icon to open the application.
Configuring PuTTY Sessions:
1. Hostname or IP Address:
In the PuTTY configuration window, enter the hostname or target server’s IP address. This is the address you wish to connect to.
2. Port and Connection Type:
Specify the port no., generally 22 for SSH. Choose the appropriate connection type – usually SSH for secure connections.
Host Name (or IP address): [Enter your server address]
Port: [Specify the port, typically 22 for SSH]
Connection Type: [Select SSH]
3. Save Sessions (Optional):
To save time on future connections, you get the possibility to save your session configurations. Click on the ‘Session’ category, enter a name under ‘Saved Sessions,’ and click ‘Save.’
Establishing a Connection:
1. Click ‘Open’:
With the session configured, click the ‘Open’ button to initiate the connection.
2. Authentication:
PuTTY will prompt you for authentication. Depending on your server setup, enter your password or, if using key-based authentication, select your private key.
Exploring Advanced Features:
PuTTY offers advanced features such as tunneling and port forwarding, enhancing its utility for various use cases. These features enable secure data transfer and access to services on remote servers.
Also Read: Installing PuTTY on Mac – Complete Guide
Conclusion
In concluding our guide on how to install PuTTY on Ubuntu, we’ve demystified the process, enabling users to seamlessly integrate this robust terminal emulator into their Ubuntu systems. PuTTY’s versatility shines as it effortlessly establishes secure connections through SSH, catering to system administrators, developers, and enthusiasts alike. The simplicity of commands like sudo apt install putty ensures a user-friendly installation experience, while PuTTY’s commitment to intuitive session configuration and optional features like tunneling elevates it beyond a mere terminal emulator.
Our guide, tailored for Ubuntu 20.04, underscores PuTTY’s future-ready compatibility with the latest Ubuntu releases. By adding PuTTY to your Ubuntu toolkit, you’ve equipped yourself with a reliable, secure, and feature-rich tool for efficient remote server management. Let PuTTY be your trusted companion in the terminal landscape, navigating the complexities with simplicity and confidence. Embrace the power of PuTTY on Ubuntu and redefine your approach to remote connectivity.
