How to Install OpenSSH Client in Windows 11

This text teaches students and new users how to install and use the built-in OpenSSH Client in Windows 11. Instead of relying on third-party SSH clients, Windows 11 users can now leverage the in-built OpenSSH client, traditionally a feature of Linux systems. The text provides detailed steps on installing the software, followed by instructions on…

This post shows students and new users how to install and enable Windows built-in OpenSSH Client in Windows 11.

Windows 11 also adds support for OpenSSH, and it works. You can ditch your standalone SSH client and use the built-in SSH client with Windows 11.

The OpenSSH client is a command-line tool that enables secure and encrypted communication between two computers over an insecure network. It’s a popular tool administrators, developers, and other IT professionals use to remotely connect to servers and other network devices.

Windows 11 now has native support for OpenSSH, meaning you can use the built-in SSH client instead of a third-party client like Putty. This is a significant change for Windows users, eliminating the need to download and install a standalone SSH client.

By installing and enabling the OpenSSH client in Windows 11, you can securely connect to remote servers, transfer files, and execute commands using the command-line interface. It’s a valuable tool for anyone who works with remote servers or network devices and needs to access them securely from a Windows 11 device.

Install OpenSSH Client in Windows 11

To install and enable Windows built-in SSH client, follow the steps below.

Windows 11 has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. Everything can be done, from system configurations to creating new users and updating Windows from its System Settings pane.

To get to System Settings, you can use the Windows key + I shortcut or click on Start ==> Settings, as shown in the image below:

Alternatively, you can use the search box on the taskbar to search for Settings. Then select to open it.

In Windows Settings, click Apps and select Optional features on the right pane of your screen, as shown in the image below.

It can be accessed on some systems at Settins -> System -> Optional Features.

On the Optional Features settings pane, under Installed features, search for OpenSSH Client. If it’s not installed, click the Add an optional feature above.

On the Add, an optional feature pane, search for and select OpenSSH Client as highlighted below, then install.

It would be best to have the OpenSSH client installed in Windows 11.

Use Windows 11 built-in OpenSSH client

Once the client is installed, you must open Windows Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell. Either program should work for you. The client works just like the ones on Linux and other operating systems.

Type the ssh command followed by the username @ hostname or IP address. You may specify the SSH port if not the standard port. If the server is configured right, access should be granted.

ex. ssh richard@server.name.com

That’s it!

Conclusion:

  • Windows 11 now includes native support for OpenSSH, eliminating the need for third-party clients like Putty.
  • The built-in OpenSSH client allows users to securely connect to remote servers, transfer files, and execute commands using the command-line interface.
  • Users can install and enable the OpenSSH client in Windows 11 by following simple steps in the System Settings.
  • Once installed, users can utilize the Windows Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell to access servers using the SSH command, reaping the benefits of secure and encrypted communication.

Comments

  1. Steve Kelem Avatar
    Steve Kelem

    There is no Settings->Apps->Optional Features on my Win11.

    1. Hi, seems like it has been moved to Settings -> System -> Optional Features

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