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Compare PuTTY vs. Remote Desktop - Choose the Right Remote Access Tool

Compare PuTTY vs. Remote Desktop and explore the key differences between them. Understand their functionalities, use cases, and security features to find the best remote access solution for your needs.

By @Ellie Last Updated December 13, 2024

PuTTY vs. Remote Desktop

Remote access tools are essential for managing and maintaining systems from a distance. Two popular tools in this category are Putty and Remote Desktop. This article compares PuTTY vs. Remote Desktop, exploring their functionalities, use cases, and key differences.

PuTTY: A terminal emulator

Putty is a terminal emulator that allows users to log in to a web server remotely. It's particularly useful for gaining ROOT access and performing Linux commands as if you were directly connected to the server. Putty supports multiple protocols, including SSH, Telnet, and rlogin.

Key features of Putty

  • Protocol support: SSH, Telnet, rlogin, and raw TCP.
  • Encryption control: Control over SSH encryption key and protocol version.
  • File transfer: Command-line SCP and SFTP clients (pscp and psftp).
  • Port forwarding: Supports local, remote, or dynamic port forwarding with SSH.
  • Terminal emulation: Emulates xterm, VT102 control sequences, and ECMA-48 terminal emulation.
  • IPv6 support: Fully supports IPv6.
  • Authentication: Public-key authentication support.
  • Local connections: Support for local serial port connections.
  • Self-contained: Executable requires no installation.

Remote Desktop: Microsoft's remote access solution

Remote Desktop (RDP), a proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft, allows users to access another Windows machine remotely with a graphical interface. This tool is commonly used for support and administrative purposes, enabling control over the remote machine's desktop as if you were sitting in front of it.

Key features of Remote Desktop

  • Color support: Supports up to 32-bit color.
  • Encryption: 128-bit encryption using RC4 algorithm.
  • Audio redirection: Redirects audio from the remote desktop to the local computer.
  • File system redirection: Access local files on the remote desktop.
  • Printer and port redirection: Use local printers and ports within the remote session.
  • Clipboard sharing: Share clipboards between remote and local computers.
  • Multiple monitors: Support for spreading sessions across two monitors.
  • Transport layer security: TLS support for secure connections.

Comparison: PuTTY vs. Remote Desktop

PuTTY and Remote Desktop serve different purposes and provide unique features. In this comparison, we'll examine the key differences between RDP and PuTTY in terms of use cases, security, and functionality to help you decide which one is best suited to your needs.

Use cases

PuTTY is ideal for users seeking terminal access to a Linux server, PuTTY is a go-to tool for system administrators and developers. It excels in server management, allowing users to run commands and execute scripts efficiently. Whether you need to configure server settings, monitor system performance, or troubleshoot issues, PuTTY provides a reliable and versatile terminal interface for all your Linux server needs.

Remote Desktop is designed for those who require a full graphical interface to interact with a remote Windows machine, Remote Desktop is a powerful solution for various tasks. It is frequently used for providing remote support, enabling users to run applications and perform administrative tasks on a Windows server with ease. From managing system updates to configuring user settings, Remote Desktop offers a seamless experience for controlling and maintaining Windows environments remotely.

Security

PuTTY ensures robust security through the implementation of various encryption protocols and public-key authentication methods. These features safeguard your data transmission, protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access. With its strong emphasis on security, PuTTY remains a trusted choice for secure terminal access to Linux servers.

Remote Desktop offers 128-bit encryption and TLS support, providing a secure connection for remote access to Windows machines. However, it is important to note that older versions have had vulnerabilities that could potentially allow traffic decryption. Despite these past issues, the latest versions have enhanced security measures to ensure a safer remote access experience.

Functionality

PuTTY focuses on command-line access, offering a highly flexible solution for various tasks such as file transfers and port forwarding. Its versatility makes it an essential tool for system administrators and developers who need to manage servers, execute commands, and automate processes through a reliable terminal interface.

Remote Desktop provides a complete desktop experience, including features like audio and file redirection. This makes it more suitable for tasks that require a graphical interface, such as running applications, managing user settings, and providing remote support. With Remote Desktop, users can seamlessly interact with a remote Windows machine as if they were sitting right in front of it.

Alternative option for remote desktop access and control

In the above comparison of PuTTY vs RDP, we see that while PuTTY and Remote Desktop have their strengths, they also have notable limitations. The remote desktop software AnyViewer overcomes these weaknesses by offering a user-friendly interface, robust security, and a comprehensive feature set. Whether you need to manage a server, provide instant remote support, or access your desktop remotely, AnyViewer provides a reliable and versatile solution surpassing PuTTY and Remote Desktop.

  • User-friendly interface: Unlike PuTTY's command-line interface, AnyViewer offers an intuitive and easy-to-use GUI, making it accessible for users of all skill levels.
  • Robust security measures: AnyViewer employs advanced encryption protocols and two-factor authentication, ensuring secure remote connections and protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access.
  • Comprehensive features: AnyViewer offers a range of functionalities, including file transfers, unattended remote access, and unlimited remote sessions. Additionally, it provides text chat and screen sharing, features not found in Remote Desktop. This makes AnyViewer a flexible solution suitable for both personal and professional remote work or IT support needs.

Here’s how to access and control a remote desktop with AnyViewer in three steps:

Step 1. Begin by downloading and installing AnyViewer on both computers.

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Step 2. On the remote computer, create an AnyViewer account, log in, and ensure that the computer remains powered on with AnyViewer running in the background.

Step 3. Using the same account details, log in on your local device. This can be a Windows computer, an iPhone/iPad, or an Android phone/tablet. Locate the remote computer within AnyViewer and start the session by selecting "One-click control."

The bottom line

In conclusion, comparing PuTTY vs. Remote Desktop helps you make the right choice. While PuTTY and Remote Desktop both serve valuable roles in remote access, they cater to different needs. PuTTY excels in secure, command-line access for managing Linux servers, making it ideal for system administrators and developers. In contrast, Remote Desktop provides a comprehensive graphical interface for accessing Windows machines, suitable for administrative tasks and remote support.

For a versatile solution that combines user-friendly design, robust security, and a wide range of features, AnyViewer stands out, offering a superior alternative to both PuTTY and Remote Desktop for remote access and control.