Knowledge base
SSH & PuTTY frequently asked questions
Concise answers to common questions about clients, connections, keys, and errors.
PuTTY and software sources
Is PutyTa an official PuTTY website?
No. PutyTa is an independent educational resource and is not affiliated with the developers of PuTTY.
Where should I download PuTTY?
Use the official PuTTY download page. PutyTa does not host installers or provide a download button.
Do I need PuTTY to use SSH on Windows?
No. Current Windows versions can also provide the OpenSSH command-line client. PuTTY remains useful for graphical saved sessions and PPK-based workflows. See SSH on Windows.
Connections and identity
What information is required to connect?
You normally need the hostname or IP address, SSH port, username, and an accepted authentication method. Obtain these from the system administrator.
Is SSH always on port 22?
Port 22 is the default, but a server administrator can configure another port. A custom port must be entered explicitly and is not, by itself, a substitute for authentication and updates.
Should I accept a first-use host key prompt?
Only after comparing its fingerprint with a value obtained from the administrator through a trusted channel. The prompt is your opportunity to verify server identity.
What should I do when a host key changes?
Stop and verify the new fingerprint. Rebuilds and planned rotation can be legitimate, but a changed key can also mean the destination is wrong or the connection is being intercepted.
Keys and authentication
Can I share my public key?
A public key is designed to be installed on authorized servers. Confirm where it is being added. The matching private key must never be shared.
Can PutyTa inspect my private key?
No. Do not submit a private key, password, passphrase, or recovery code. A useful question names the program you used, the safe settings, and the exact error.
Why does my password show no characters?
Many terminals intentionally display no characters—not even dots—while a password is typed. Enter it carefully and press Enter once.
Errors
What is the difference between refused and timed out?
Refused usually means the destination responded but did not accept a connection on that port. Timed out means no usable response arrived. The causes and next checks differ; use the SSH troubleshooting guide.
Should I turn off my firewall to test SSH?
Not as a general solution. Test DNS and the exact TCP port, review applicable logs, and have an administrator define a narrow rule if a rule is truly required.