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How to Log in to a Windows Server Using PuTTY

by | Jun 14, 2023 | RDP | 0 comments

How to log in to a Windows Server using PuTTY

How to Log in to a Windows Server Using PuTTY

PuTTY is a popular and versatile SSH (Secure Shell) client that allows you to connect to remote servers securely. If you’re managing a Windows Server and need to access it remotely, PuTTY can be a handy tool. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of logging in to a Windows Server using PuTTY.

Prerequisites: Before we begin, make sure you have the following prerequisites in place:

  1. A Windows Server with SSH enabled.
  2. PuTTY installed on your local machine. You can download it from the official PuTTY website (https://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/latest.html).

Step-by-Step Guide:

 

Step 1:

Launch PuTTY Open PuTTY on your local machine. You should see the PuTTY Configuration window.

Step 2:

Configure the Connection 2.1. In the “Host Name (or IP address)” field, enter the IP address or hostname of your Windows Server. 2.2. Make sure the “Port” field is set to the default SSH port, which is 22. 2.3. Select the “SSH” option under the “Connection Type” section.

Step 3:

Save the Session (Optional) If you plan to connect to this server frequently, you can save the session for future use. Give it a name in the “Saved Sessions” field and click the “Save” button.

Step 4:

Configure SSH Authentication 4.1. Expand the “SSH” category in the left pane. 4.2. Click on “Auth” under the “SSH” category. 4.3. In the “Private key file for authentication” field, click the “Browse” button and select the private key file if you’re using key-based authentication. Skip this step if you’re using password-based authentication.

Step 5:

Establish the Connection Click the “Open” button at the bottom of the PuTTY Configuration window. PuTTY will attempt to establish a connection to the Windows Server.

Step 6:

Enter Credentials 6.1. If you’re using key-based authentication, PuTTY will automatically use the private key for authentication. You may be prompted to enter a passphrase if one was set during the key generation process. 6.2. If you’re using password-based authentication, PuTTY will prompt you to enter the username and password for the Windows Server.

Step 7:

Explore and Manage Windows Server Once the authentication is successful, you’ll be logged in to the Windows Server using PuTTY. You can now execute commands, manage files, and perform various administrative tasks on the server.

PuTTY is a reliable and widely used SSH client that simplifies remote server management. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily log in to your Windows Server using PuTTY. Whether you’re a system administrator or a developer, having PuTTY in your toolbox can greatly enhance your remote server management capabilities.

 
 

Log in to a Windows Server (F.A.Q)

 
Can PuTTY be used to log in to a Windows Server remotely?

Yes, PuTTY can be used to log in to a Windows Server remotely. PuTTY is an SSH client that provides a secure connection to remote servers, including Windows Servers. By entering the server’s IP address or hostname in PuTTY and establishing an SSH connection, you can log in to the Windows Server remotely.

What are the advantages of using PuTTY to log in to a Windows Server?

There are several advantages of using PuTTY for logging in to a Windows Server:

  • PuTTY supports SSH, providing a secure and encrypted connection between your local machine and the server.
  • It allows remote access to the server’s command-line interface, enabling you to execute commands and perform administrative tasks.
  • PuTTY supports key-based authentication, making it more secure than password-based authentication.
  • PuTTY is lightweight and easy to use, with a simple user interface that facilitates quick and efficient server access.
How do I enable SSH on a Windows Server?

To enable SSH on a Windows Server, follow these steps:

  • Open the “Server Manager” on the Windows Server.
  • Select “Add roles and features” from the “Manage” menu.
  • In the “Add Roles and Features Wizard,” select the server where you want to enable SSH.
  • Proceed to the “Features” section and check the “OpenSSH Server” option.
  • Complete the installation process by following the on-screen instructions.
  • Once installed, start the SSH service on the Windows Server.
Can I use PuTTY to log in to a Windows Server without a password?

Yes, it is possible to log in to a Windows Server using PuTTY without entering a password. PuTTY supports key-based authentication, where you generate a public-private key pair. The public key is copied to the server, and the private key is stored securely on your local machine. During the PuTTY configuration, you can specify the private key file for authentication. When connecting to the Windows Server, PuTTY will automatically use the private key for authentication, eliminating the need for a password. This method offers enhanced security and convenience.

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