How to Enable OpenSSH Server in Windows 11

Windows 11 comes with OpenSSH Server built right in. This is a tool that lets you connect to your computer securely from another computer. Think of it as a secure remote access tool. Best of all? You probably already have it on your system.

Why would you want OpenSSH Server? It lets you control your Windows computer from far away using a secure connection. It’s safer than other methods because it encrypts everything. What happens when you set it up? Other people can connect to your computer remotely and work on it, just like they were sitting at your desk.

How to Install OpenSSH Server in Windows 11

Installing OpenSSH Server is straightforward. Follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Open Windows Settings

First, open your Windows Settings. You can do this two ways:

• Press Windows key + I
• Or click Start ==> Settings

You can also use the search box on your taskbar. Type “Settings” and click to open it.

Step 2: Go to Optional Features

In Windows Settings, click Apps. Then select Optional Features on the right side of your screen.

On some computers, you’ll find this at Settings ==> System ==> Optional Features.

Step 3: Add an Optional Feature

On the Optional Features page, click Add an optional feature or View features.

Step 4: Search for OpenSSH Server

In the search box, type OpenSSH Server. Select it from the list and click Next.

Step 5: Install OpenSSH Server

Click Install to begin. Your computer will download and install OpenSSH Server. This takes a few moments.

How to Start OpenSSH Server in Windows 11

Why start the service? Installing OpenSSH Server doesn’t automatically turn it on. You need to start it manually so other computers can connect to yours. What happens when you start it? Your Windows computer will begin listening for incoming SSH connections.

Admin privileges required for this step.

Step 1: Open the Services Console

Search for Services on your computer. Click to open the Services console.

Step 2: Start OpenSSH SSH Server

Look through the list for OpenSSH SSH Server. Right-click on it and select Start.

Once it starts, the status will change from Manual to Running. This means it’s active and ready to accept connections.

How to Connect to Your Windows OpenSSH Server

Why connect to it? Now that your server is running, you can connect to your Windows computer from another computer. What happens when you connect? You gain remote access to your Windows computer through a secure, encrypted connection.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt

Open the Windows Command Prompt on the computer you want to use to connect.

Step 2: Run the SSH Command

Type the following command. Replace the username and IP address with your actual Windows computer’s details:

ssh user@192.168.1.100

For example:

ssh admin@192.168.1.100

Press Enter. Your computer will ask you to accept the server key. Type yes and press Enter to continue.

Step 3: Enter Your Password

Type in the password for your Windows account and press Enter.

Once you enter the correct password, you’re connected! You now have secure remote access to your Windows computer.

Summary

Windows 11 includes a built-in OpenSSH Server for secure remote connections. Here’s what you learned:

• Installation: Go to Settings ==> Apps ==> Optional Features, search for OpenSSH Server, and click Install.
• Starting the service: Open the Services console, find OpenSSH SSH Server, right-click it, and select Start. You need admin privileges for this.
• Connecting: Use any SSH client and run the command ssh username@computer-ip-address. Enter your password when prompted.
• The benefit: You now have a secure way to access and control your Windows computer from anywhere.

OpenSSH Server is simple to set up and works right out of the box once it’s running. No special configuration needed for basic use.