List of the Top 3 SSH Clients for OpenBSD in 2025

Dropbear is a lightweight SSH server and client that functions on a range of Unix-like operating systems. Released under an MIT-style open-source license, it is readily available for developers to utilize and modify. Its architecture is especially beneficial for "embedded" Linux systems, such as those commonly utilized in wireless routers. For users wishing to keep abreast of updates or participate in discussions, there is a low-traffic mailing list open for subscriptions. Notably, Dropbear boasts a minimal memory footprint, allowing it to be compiled into a statically linked binary of only 110kB on x86 systems when using uClibc and selecting only necessary options. The server also provides support for X11 forwarding and authentication-agent forwarding for clients that utilize OpenSSH. Furthermore, users have the option to compile the server, client, key generator, and key converter into a single executable, akin to busybox, with the ability to exclude certain features during the compilation process to save space. To enhance its functionality, the software includes a multi-hop mode, which facilitates SSH TCP forwarding, allowing users to tunnel through several SSH hosts with ease in a single command. This array of features underscores Dropbear's adaptability in diverse networking contexts, contributing to its reputation as a preferred solution for projects that demand an efficient and lightweight SSH implementation. Additionally, its compatibility with various environments ensures that it remains a relevant tool for developers seeking reliable connectivity options.

OpenSSH is recognized as the premier tool for implementing remote logins via the SSH protocol. It safeguards all communications through encryption, thereby preventing eavesdropping, connection hijacking, and a range of cyber threats. In addition, OpenSSH offers a robust suite of secure tunneling capabilities, diverse authentication methods, and extensive configuration options. Commands such as ssh, scp, and sftp enable seamless execution of remote tasks, while key management is efficiently conducted through tools like ssh-add, ssh-keysign, ssh-keyscan, and ssh-keygen. On the server side, essential components include sshd, sftp-server, and ssh-agent, all of which contribute to its functionality. This versatile software is developed by a dedicated team from the OpenBSD project and is released under a BSD-like license. Despite its integration into many commercial applications, only a handful of companies provide financial backing for its ongoing development. Users seeking support for OpenSSH can reach out to the OpenBSD Foundation. Given the known vulnerabilities associated with protocols such as telnet and rlogin, it is crucial for all operating systems to have built-in support for the SSH protocol. The SSH protocol comprises two separate and incompatible versions, SSH 1 and SSH 2, which can sometimes result in compatibility challenges. As the demand for secure communications rises, the implementation of OpenSSH is becoming increasingly prevalent across a wide array of industries. Its growth reflects a broader recognition of the importance of robust security measures in today's digital landscape.

Muon provides an intuitive and enjoyable way to oversee remote servers using SSH. This graphical SSH client features a sophisticated SFTP file browser, an SSH terminal emulator, a remote resource and process manager, a server disk space analyzer, a remote text editor, a comprehensive remote log viewer, and many other utilities that aid in remote server management. Operating like web-based control panels, Muon connects directly over SSH from a local machine, thus removing the necessity for any installations on the server side. It is compatible with both Linux and Windows operating systems and has been tested with a range of Linux and UNIX servers, including Ubuntu server, CentOS, RHEL, OpenSUSE, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, NetBSD, and HP-UX. This tool primarily caters to web and backend developers who frequently deploy and troubleshoot their applications on remote servers, while also appealing to system administrators who handle multiple remote servers. Muon's user-friendly design and powerful capabilities significantly enhance productivity by streamlining server management tasks, making it an essential tool in the toolkit of anyone who needs efficient server oversight. As remote work continues to grow, tools like Muon are becoming increasingly vital for effective server management in various environments.