How to Install OpenSSH Client on Windows 11 for Secure Remote Connections

The `OpenSSH client` allows you to securely connect to remote servers running SSH. Before you begin the installation process, ensure you have the following prerequisites:

Prerequisites:

• Windows 11 Operating System: Ensure your system is running Windows 11. While `OpenSSH` can also be installed on older versions of Windows, this guide specifically covers Windows 11.

• Administrator Access: You need administrative privileges to install new features on your system.

• Stable Internet Connection: The installation process involves downloading files from Microsoft servers, so a stable internet connection is recommended.

I also recommend reviewing Microsoft's official guide for installing OpenSSH on Windows to check for any updates or additional information: Microsoft OpenSSH Installation Guide.

Installation Steps:

Step 1: Open Settings

Click on the `Start` menu (Windows icon) located at the bottom left corner of your screen.

Select the `Settings` icon (resembling a gear) to open the `Settings` app.

Step 2: Access Optional Features

In the `Settings` window, navigate to `System`.

Click on `Optional features` in the sidebar.

Step 3: Find and Install OpenSSH Client

Look for OpenSSH Client in the list under `Added features`.

If it's already installed, you can skip to `step 5`.

If not installed, click on `View features` at the top of the `Optional features` screen.

In the search box provided, type `OpenSSH Client`.

When `OpenSSH Client` appears in the search results, click on the checkbox next to it.

Click `Next` and then Install to begin the installation process.

Step 4: Wait for Installation

Windows will now download and install the OpenSSH client package. The duration of this process may vary depending on your internet connection speed and system performance. Please be patient during this step.

Step 5: Verification (Optional)

To verify that the `OpenSSH` client has been successfully installed, you can open either `Command Prompt` or `Windows Terminal`:

• To open Command Prompt, type `cmd` in the search bar located next to the `Start` menu. Then, click on `Command Prompt` in the search results.

• To open Windows Terminal, type `Windows Terminal` in the search bar and select it from the results.

Check `OpenSSH` Version:

In the `Command Prompt` or Windows Terminal` window, type the following command:

Windows (PowerShell)

ssh -V

Press `Enter`.

If the `OpenSSH` client is installed correctly, you should see version information such as `OpenSSH_8.6p1, LibreSSL 3.4.3 ...`. This confirms that the `OpenSSH client` is ready for use.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully installed the OpenSSH client on your Windows 11 machine. You can now securely connect to remote SSH servers through the command line using tools like Command Prompt or Windows Terminal.

By following these steps, you ensure that your Windows 11 system is equipped with the necessary tools to securely communicate with SSH-enabled servers, allowing for encrypted remote access and file transfer capabilities.

Published:  June 23, 2024

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