Are you looking for the Best Android SSH Client to connect to your server securely? 🤔
Don’t Worry!
We got you covered in this app list.
Without any further ado, let’s get started. 📗
SSH is also known as a secure shell. It uses data to access computers that you want to connect remotely. Since it is designed using a secure tunnel, third-party users cannot access it. The authentication of data occurs through 2 main processes.
The first one uses keys that are generated automatically for encryption. The second method makes use of the manual generation of keys.
What can you do with SSH?
As we read, you can manage your servers successfully and securely. It is mainly helpful to perform other tasks like managing home servers, network admin, and remote clients. The SSH client app uses the command-line interface to provide an encrypted channel.
Not to mention, you can process a GUI application on the server. You also manage, edit, and arrange your flies through the SFTP and SCP programs. You can also check the status of IoT devices and servers.
Why should you use SSH on your android smartphones?
So, why use SSH client apps on your android smartphone when it makes more sense to use them on your computer system? These days, smartphones are being used popularly when compared to PC.
Not to mention tablets also are commonly used frequently. They are the perfect alternative to computer systems. This brings us to PuTTY. This is a form of SSH client, communication software, and terminal client through which connections are made remotely.
With the help of PuTTY, much iteration is supported by a remote terminal safely. Though it is one of the oldest terminal clients, it is still commonly used. However, it does not support features like a tabbed interface.
Not to mention, it does not work on android smartphones, the most commonly used device in today’s market.
Best Android SSH Client Apps – Our Top Pick👌👌
There are tons of SSH client apps in the market. Our list of the top 10 best SSH client apps for android devices can fit most of the requirements. We have covered both paid and free apps.
1. JuiceSSH – SSH Client
This is one of the best SSH client apps in the market today that is available for free. The app is also an all-in-one terminal client because it supports Mosh, Local Shell, and Telnet. Some users have complimented it only for its powerful performance.
Most of the features come unlocked. Few features remain locked, and you need to make in-app purchases to open them. These include team collaboration, dynamic port forwarding, synchronization, and post-login script.
Yes, it does not come with those annoying advertisements that can ruin peace of mind. As a user, you can assign the identities depending on your convenience. There is a popup keyboard that comes with shell characters.
You can also get connected through a keyboard externally. Features like volume keys can be used to alter the font size and connection. There are also some exciting inbuilt themes that you can choose from.
There is support for the android terminal, key forwarding, third-party plugins; you can perform copy and paste when you are in the middle of a session, and RSA key generator.
The connection can be secured through the Google authenticator or even other authenticators.
Pros:-
- This is the most modern app.
- There is a colorful terminal.
- External keyboard support for the app is there.
- There is ample support for third-party plugins.
- Most of the settings can be configured.
- This comes with an all-in-one terminal.
Cons:-
- Some features can be unlocked only if you make in-app purchases.
2. Termius – SSH/SFTP and Telnet client
This is a very sophisticated command-line terminal through which you can make remote access hassle-free. You can access and operate devices through the terminus. A few of the devices include IoT and Linux with Termius.
Telnet, Mosh, and SSH can be accessed through Terminus. Not to mention, you can easily download the application from the Play Store free of cost. Using the user interface is quite easy.
New users can easily control and manage SSH. Once you log in with the SSH command, you can perform operations using the android smartphone with the local terminal. Apart from remote access, one can also transfer files quickly.
It does that with the help of a built-in file transfer protocol. It is also called the SSH File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), with which you can manage and access files on the server.
Several visual themes are also supported, which has been noticed by many users.
You will also like the smooth connections management through the interface that helps you work effortlessly. You can benefit from the tab support and organize your connections with labels.
Auto operating system recognition for Ubuntu and Raspberry Pi OSes is also supported. The app also supports forwarding for remote, local, and dynamic clients. Users can also work on cryptographic algorithms, including ed25519, ECDSA, and chahca20-poly1305.
The app is available in both free and paid versions. The free version does not contain any advertisements, thankfully.
However, exciting features like terminal tabs, fingerprint protection, SFTP support, and AWS EC2 integration comes in the paid version.
Pros:-
- The app comes with a friendly user interface.
- You can outline themes with the help of a group.
- Users will love to use the dark mode option.
- The themes and fonts are colorful and built-in.
- You have the option to tag to ensure that you receive better connections.
- The app is free from advertisements.
- The paid version comes with two-factor authentication.
Cons:-
- It is not an open-source app.
3. Royal TSD
It is a popular option for a secure shell client. You are provided with safe and easy access to documents. The main highlight of the multi-platform app is that you can easily switch operating systems.
You can work on documents from OneDrive, Google Drive, or any other provider. Not to mention, you can transfer data through email or USB. However, there is no need to connect to a remote desktop.
The best part about the SSH client app is that it is updated frequently. A third-party application makes SSH connections with remote machines. This is beneficial because third-party apps are transferred through login automatically with the help of a remote host.
It is ideal for those who require access to the remote system using different protocols. Commonly software developers and system engineers do the task. There is a lite and full edition.
Using the full edition, you can access all the features. You can run the scripts on several remote machines simultaneously. On the other hand, the lite version comes with only a remote connection.
As it supports several terminal connections, you save time and effort. You can also work on simultaneous commands using many systems. With the app, you can support different terminal connections.
Pros:-
- The app comes with a tabbed UI.
- It is updated frequently.
- The app has secure management of credentials.
- With the full edition, you can use in-depth customization options.
- This is a multi-platform app.
Cons:-
- For new users, working on the app can be quite stressful.
4. GSW ConnectBot
The GSW ConnectBot is the most robust and powerful SSH client app compared to the others. The UI is easy to use because it is designed based on ConnectBot, a secure shell client application.
They provide users with professional customer support 24/7, which answers queries and solves problems quickly. Research has also shown that it offers the best security feature.
You can use the app to work on several hosts. The administrator can configure the shortcuts to the hosts. You can then initiate the work based on the required environment. The best part is that you do not require the internet to work on the features.
For example, your details are not shared or even communicated with other devices through third-party applications. Since they update the app frequently, the chances of viruses and leaks are reduced.
The app is suitable for administrative and industrial work needs.
Pros:-
- It can work on multiple sessions at a single time.
- You can alter and configure the size of the screen.
- The configuration options are in-depth.
- Suitable for administrative and industrial work requirements.
- It is one of the safest secure shell client apps in the market.
- The app comes with a free 30-day trial.
- The login feature enables you to log in automatically.
- They offer users a professional customer care support team 24/7.
Cons:-
- Unfortunately, it is quite expensive for individual use. Hence, it is ideal for firms or organizations.
5. ConnectBot
This is an open-source SSH client app that is free to use. Interested users can find the source code on GitHub.
There are no hidden programs in the app. You get what you want. In a sense, there are no advertisements or in-app purchases.
The features are customizable and transform your work into a simple process to connect to the server. It is ideal for working professionals and new users.
The good news is that a new edition of the app comes with several exciting features.
The bugs and IPv6 support have been drastically worked on. You can now create the SSH host with flexibility. You can customize the keyboard button, font size; SSH auth agent.
Apart from that, you can also access arrow keys, control keys, and function keys using individual keys. It is used to manage public keys. However, the SSH client app has not been updated for quite some time.
There is a new revised version that comes with several new additions. Though it may not be powerful enough, it is free to use.
Pros:-
- It is completely free to use as it is open-source.
- Despite being free, it comes with a few bugs.
- The in-depth customization present in it provides you with plenty of applications.
- The true program is updated often.
Cons:-
- However, it is a young app that does not come with powerful features.
6. Far Commander
Far Commander is one of the best PuTTY alternatives for your android smartphone. It comes free of advertisements even though it is free to use. That is because you can design your commands and then group them.
The app can be used for remote connection and relies on donations to work. It does come with in-app purchases and is updated often. You need an internet connection to be able to access the server.
This is a one-click application that helps you to do your work easily. Not to mention, you can also use commands that are pre-configured with a single tap. You can also label the servers according to the categories you want.
Using a home automation system, you can access Linux Server, Raspberry Pie, and other devices. The main benefit of using the app is that you can back up all custom commands, the categories of SSH servers, configurations, and server details.
However, you sometimes feel that the features could have been improved drastically.
Below are some of the Pros and Cons of The Far Commander app that earned it a spot in our list of ssh android client To Download.
Pros:-
- New users would find it easy to operate and work on.
- It comes with a backup feature that allows you to store data.
- With one touch, you can access machines remotely.
- You can personalize the commands by assigning labels, depending on your convenience.
- For connections that are used frequently, instant access is provided.
- The text size of the terminal can be altered.
- It is updated regularly and comes free of bugs.
Cons:-
- Unfortunately, the app does not come with the latest features, which can be slightly frustrating for users.
7. Mobile SSH (Secure Shell)
It is simple to use an SSH client with an active UI. Though it may not offer you with excellent user experience, it is derived from PuTTY.
Not to mention, it supports several SSH sessions simultaneously, which is a blessing for users.
You need to enter the secure shell contacts and tap the connect button to connect to the remote server. The first public-key cryptosystem is also supported actively. This is known as the Rivest–Shamir–Adleman (RSA) key authentication.
There are two editions, free and paid. Both come with their benefits. The free version comes with advertisements.
However, a few features, like multiple SSH sessions, are locked. You will also be glad to know that the interface of the paid version is much friendlier and comes with many configuration options.
The app is updated frequently. A wide range of terminal emulators, including IBM 3270, VT100, and 5250, are supported.
Below are some of the Pros and Cons of The Mobile SSH (Secure Shell) app that earned it a spot in our list of best ssh client for android To Download.
Pros:-
- This is a very straightforward app.
- It is the best alternative to PuTTY.
- New users will find it easy to use.
- It can support several SSH sessions simultaneously.
Cons:-
- However, it comes with fewer features.
- No configuration options are present.
8. Termux
The SSH client app comes with a wide range of options to connect. You can work on it with the root, as it is a Linux environment application and android terminal emulator. The Termux has to be installed and then ‘apt install inetutils’, command is typed.
This allows for the working of Telnet, Rlogin, and SSH. It is free of advertisements and comes for free. Users would be glad to know that it comes with no in-app purchases.
However, when you need some features, you can do so with the help of the APT package manager.
The Linux package is completely supported by this app. You feel as if you are operating with a PC. The commands in Linux can be easily executed on the android shell. Files can be edited with the help of Vim and Nano.
Below are some of the Pros and Cons of The Termux app that earned it a spot in our list of Best Android SSH Client Apps To Download.
Pros:-
- This is one of the most advanced featured apps.
- If you are experienced with Linux, you will find it very easy to use.
- The configuration options are immense.
- It is safe, as you can access the remote servers.
- The latest versions of programming languages come with it, including Perl, Ruby, and Python.
- Keyboard and mouse function shortcuts can be used.
Cons:-
- Few users can find the command-line interface slightly on the difficult side.
- Basic knowledge of Linux is a must to operate this app.
9. SerialBot
This is a very easy and straightforward terminal application that can be worked on an android smartphone.
It facilitates connecting RLogin, SSH, Serial & Bluetooth terminal sessions, Telnet, and Serial Connections.
It offers integrated support for RS232 serial connections and supports VT100 terminal emulation. It is mainly used to work on router console ports and industrial equipment. The cloud store has designed and developed this SSH client app.
They are a global communications company specializing in cloud-based solutions. They developed a serial port application, Console, for the iOS platform.
Below are some of the Pros and Cons of The SerialBot app that earned it a spot in our list of Best Android SSH Client Apps To Download.
Pros:-
- It comes optimized to work on the Airconsole adaptor.
- The switches can be consoled wirelessly, which is convenient.
- The app can be connected through Bluetooth.
- The routers can be consoled without the need for a wire.
Cons:-
- The app contains bugs that can slow down the work.
- Unfortunately, it is not updated often.
10. SSHDroid unlocker
The SSHDroid is ranked 10th on our list. However, do not get fooled by that. It is a fantastic app and a PuTTY alternative. You can work on various terminal connections, like Cyberduck, WinSCP, and Secure File Transfer Protocol.
The app comes with both free and paid editions. If you plan on using the free version, you may be unable to use essential features such as the home screen, Wi-Fi autostarts whitelist, ad removal, shared key authentication, and lock screen widgets.
However, it comes with a secure SSH connection. Since it supports SFTP, you can perform file transfers. You do not have to root the phone when using it. A significant drawback of the app is that the application is not actively updated.
Below are some of the Pros and Cons of The SSHDroid app that earned it a spot in our list of Best Android SSH Client Apps To Download.
Pros:-
- It works on Android 5, not the root, which is good.
- The UI is updated and simple to work on.
- New users will find it convenient to use.
- The authentication is shared.
- It also comes with a Wi-Fi auto-start whitelist.
Cons:-
- The advanced features come using the pro version.
- The app does not get updated often.
📗FAQs on Best Android SSH Client Apps To Download
Can you SSH from an Android phone?
It is possible to use SSH from an Android phone by using a terminal emulator app and an SSH client app.
To SSH from an Android phone, follow these steps:-
Step 1:– Download a terminal emulator app: Various terminal emulator apps are available on the Google Play Store, such as Termux, JuiceSSH, and ConnectBot. Install one of these apps on your Android phone.
Step 2:- Download an SSH client app: Once you have a terminal emulator app installed, you need to download an SSH client app. Some popular options include OpenSSH for Android, Dropbear SSH Client, and ConnectBot.
Step 3:– Launch the terminal emulator app: Open the terminal emulator app on your Android phone.
Step 4:– Connect to the SSH server: Use the SSH client app to connect to an SSH server. You need to know the IP address of the SSH server, as well as your username and password.
Step 5:- Enter the SSH command: After connecting to the SSH server, you can use the terminal emulator app to enter commands, as on a desktop or laptop computer.
Note that SSH from an Android phone may not be as usable or performant as SSH from a desktop or laptop computer due to the reduced screen size and processing power of most mobile devices.
Does PuTTY work on Android?
PuTTY is a well-known application used for SSH clients on Windows. However, it is not officially available for Android devices.
Fortunately, some alternatives can be used for Android phones or tablets SSH connections.
One of the best alternatives is Termius, a feature-rich and free SSH client for Android devices. Termius supports features like SSH, Telnet, and serial connections like PuTTY. The app also has an intuitive interface and allows key-based authentication for better security.
Another great option is JuiceSSH, a modern and user-friendly SSH client for Android.
JuiceSSH supports SSH, Telnet, and Mosh connections and provides various advanced features like support for multiple SSH sessions, key-based authentication, and port forwarding.
In summary, PuTTY is not available for Android, but Termius and JuiceSSH are two excellent alternatives to establish SSH connections from an Android device.
Can you SSH from Android to Linux?
SSH can connect an Android device to a Linux server or computer. You need an SSH client app on your Android device and an SSH server on your Linux computer.
Here are the general steps to SSH from an Android device to a Linux computer:
Step 1:– Install an SSH client app: Various SSH client apps are available on the Google Play Store, like Termius, JuiceSSH, and ConnectBot. Download and install one of these apps on your Android device.
Step 2:- Install and configure an SSH server: Most Linux distributions have pre-installed SSH servers. If not, you can install it using your distribution package manager. After installation, configure the server to allow remote SSH connections.
Step 3:- Connect to the Linux computer: Open the SSH client app on your Android device, and enter the IP address or hostname of the Linux computer to connect to. You may need to provide a username, password, or private key for authentication.
Step 4:- Run commands on the Linux computer: Once connected, use the SSH client app to run commands on the Linux computer as you would on a desktop or laptop computer.
Note that SSH from an Android device may be less convenient because of the smaller screen size and touch-based input. However, it can be useful when accessing a Linux computer or server from a mobile device.
What is the best SSH server for Android?
Several SSH server apps are available for Android, each with unique features and benefits.
Here are a few of the best SSH server apps for Android:
SimpleSSHD: SimpleSSHD is an open-source and easy-to-use SSH server for Android. It supports SCP, SFTP, and port forwarding and enables you to configure your SSH keys for authentication.
DropBear SSH Server: DropBear is a lightweight and efficient SSH server for Android that supports SCP, SFTP, and X11 forwarding. It is open-source and can be configured to support password or public key authentication.
SSHDroid: SSHDroid is a popular SSH server app for Android that provides support for SCP, SFTP, and port forwarding. It supports password and public key authentication and allows for custom SSH key configuration.
Termius SSH Server: Termius is a feature-rich SSH client app for Android that also includes an SSH server. The server supports SCP, SFTP, and port forwarding and allows you to configure your SSH keys. It also offers advanced features like connection sharing and session recording.
Choosing the best SSH server app for Android depends on your specific needs and preferences.
SimpleSSHD or DropBear SSH Server may be the best choice if you prefer a simple and easy-to-use SSH server.
If you require more advanced features, SSHDroid or Termius SSH Server may be more suitable.
Is Termux only for Android?
Termux is exclusively an Android application, not available on other operating systems.
How to SSH from Android to PC?
To SSH from an Android device to a PC, you need to have an SSH client app installed on the Android device and an SSH server installed on the PC.
Here are the general steps to SSH from an Android device to a PC:
Step 1:– Install an SSH client app: Various SSH client apps are available on the Google Play Store, like Termux, JuiceSSH, and ConnectBot. Download and install one of these apps on your Android device.
Step 2:- Install an SSH server on the PC: Windows does not have an SSH server built-in, so you need to install one on your PC. A popular option is OpenSSH for Windows. You may also need to configure it to enable remote SSH connections.
Step 3:- Connect to the PC: Open the SSH client app on the Android device and enter the IP address or hostname of the PC. You may need to enter a username and password to authenticate.
Step 4:– Run commands on the PC: Once connected, you can use the SSH client app to run commands on your PC as you would on a desktop or laptop computer.
Some SSH client apps, like Termux, also include a full Linux environment, which can offer a complete SSH experience on an Android device. This can help you perform advanced tasks on your PC.
Overall, SSH from an Android device to a PC can be a convenient option for remotely accessing and managing your PC from a mobile device.
How to install SSH into your android device?
Installing SSH in your android device is a natural process. You need to open the Google Play Store and then search for the telnet SSH client. Then you must locate and tap on the install on the SSH simple client.
You can do that by Advanced Planning Corp. However, you will want to read about the permission status. You can use the accept button if the permission status is excellent and good for you.
The installation begins.
What is the primary use of SSH?
The SSH enables the data that is encrypted to be transferred from two devices, through software. Using it, you can perform a wide range of applications like log in securely, transfer files safely, and be able to connect.
However, you must know that the ITS servers need mandatory SSH-based connections.
Is SSH a UDP or TCP?
Since it is based on the OSI model, TCP/IP protocols are utilized. You can find that out when you use the SSH client to the SSH server. It is done with the help of the fixed port 22, which is a TCP Port.
Are there any differences between SSL and SSH?
The main noticeable difference between SSL and SSH is that they use X.509 digital certificates. This is mainly used for client authentication and server access. This is not seen in the SSH.
That is because you can execute commands once logged into the server remotely.
Is SSH secure to install in the smartphone?
It is safe to install it on your smartphone. Of course, you must ensure your device is safe from unwanted malware and virus. Users often tend to install the SSH client apps and then complain about viruses.
Apart from that, nobody can access or log into the server without the private key. As you can see, it is safer than the traditional password authentication method. This is a state of an art procedure, and so far, there have been no break-ins.
Final thoughts on best android SSH client apps
Apart from the said above apps, you could find other note-worthy apps like AndFTP, OrangeSSH Client, and others. They come with an easy-to-work UI. Some of the SSH client apps are free and paid.
If you search for the best android SSH client apps, the number of results you can find will stun you. You must choose the SSH client app that meets your requirements. It may be paid or free.
You will want to know that not all of them are free and comes with optimum features. Not to mention, the solutions through which you can access the SSH on your smartphone, provide you with paid options.
They work and operate through a premium model. Using this kind of configuration, you can access the secure shell client. This enables you to remove limitations and add updates, with a one-time payment.
The free android SSH clients avail you with decent apps free. But, you can use features like ad removal, group collaboration, and SFTP, through a paid medium.
Your search for advanced server management tools is likely over since you have gone through our list of best android SSH client apps. Most apps are reliable, durable, and efficient; more importantly, they work just fine.
