What is PuTTY?
PuTTY is a open-source SSH client it is highly configurable.
PuTTY makes it easier to connect to a remote server. One you’re connected to the remote server, you can transfer files over the network. PuTTY helps you create a very secure connection when you want to connect to a remote server and transfer files.
Although PuTTY is considered an SSH client, it is used for many other protocols such as SCP, Raw Socket Connection, Telnet, Serial port etc. It is also used for user control over SSH encryption key and protocol versions.
PuTTY on Mac: Prerequisites
You need to install these 3 applications before installing PuTTY on Mac:
- Command Line Tools
- Xcode
- MacPorts
This post can help you install Command Line Tools:
Install Xcode Command Line Tools
Run this command on terminal:
xcode-select --install
You’ll see a few system prompts regarding the xcode installation. After that, it’ll installed.
Install MacPorts
Use this MacPorts download page to download and install it.
PuTTY Installation Steps
Licence Agreement
Before using the xcode, you need to accept the licence agreement.
Run this command on terminal:
sudo xcodebuild –license
The licence will be displayed on the terminal afterwards.
To view the licence page by page you might need to press space key a few times. When you’re at the end of the licence agreement, you need to write “agree” and press enter/return.
Update MacPorts
Just to make sure your MacPorts are up to date, run this command:
sudo port –v self-update
Install PuTTY
Run this command to install PuTTY:
sudo port install putty
You’ll be shown the packages that’ll be installed. Type Y to confirm.
You might need to enter your password multiple times in this process.
Optional: Python Change
To make this the default Python or Python 3 (i.e., the version run by the ‘python’ or ‘python3’ commands), run one or both of:
sudo port select --set python python39
sudo port select --set python3 python39
Run PuTTY
Run this command to run PuTTY:
putty
Create a desktop shortcut for PuTTY
Run this command to create a desktop shortcut so that you don’t need to run the putty command each time:
cp /opt/local/bin/putty ~/Desktop/PuTTY
Add Windowing System using XQuartz
The XQuartz is an open-source software that provides Window System for bitmap displays that runs on Unix-like OS such as macOS.
Download it from their website here: xquartz.org and install it.
Now, when you run PuTTY, it’ll open it in a window!
install putty server
