PuTTY is a popular terminal emulator that helps users connect to remote systems, typically using protocols like SSH (secure shell), Telnet, and SCP (secure copy). It’s especially well-known among Windows users because it provides a simple and efficient way to manage remote servers or devices.

However, macOS users don’t have a native version of PuTTY available. This has led many to seek out alternative tools that work well on Mac and provide similar or even improved features.

Thankfully, macOS offers its own Terminal app, which can be used for SSH connections, but users sometimes prefer alternatives that have more advanced features or a user-friendly interface.

This makes finding the right PuTTY Alternatives for Mac important for those who want the same functionality as Windows users get with PuTTY.

PuTTY Basics: How It Works and Why You Need It

PuTTY is a free, open-source software designed to make connecting to remote computers easy and secure. It allows users to control other machines from a distance using various protocols, including SSH (Secure Shell), Telnet, and Rlogin.

These protocols ensure that communication between your computer and the remote machine stays safe.

While PuTTY is very effective at what it does, it was originally built for Windows users. This means that when Mac users try to use PuTTY, they might not get the smooth experience they’re used to with native macOS applications.

As a result, some macOS users prefer to look for other options that fit better with their system’s interface and usability.

Why are replacements needed?

While PuTTY can be installed on macOS using tools like Homebrew, it doesn’t offer the seamless user experience that many Mac users expect. It lacks some of the modern features and conveniences found in other terminal emulators.

For instance, PuTTY doesn’t support things like multiple tabbed sessions, enhanced user interfaces, or better integration with file management, all of which can be useful when working on remote systems.

Many Mac users turn to alternatives that provide these advanced features, especially for tasks like automating workflows, managing multiple servers, or handling complex scripts.

These alternatives are often more robust, offering tools specifically designed to make life easier for developers and system administrators by streamlining their work and improving productivity.

Top 5 PuTTY Alternatives for Mac

Attune

Attune is designed to automate and manage entire IT environments. This means that tasks like deployments, system upgrades, and backups, which are time-consuming when done manually, can be automated across multiple servers.

By handling these repetitive tasks automatically, Attune helps boost operational efficiency, making it easier for IT teams to focus on more important issues.

One of the key benefits of Attune is its support for multiple scripting languages, giving system administrators flexibility in how they automate processes.

Additionally, with real-time debugging features, administrators can catch and fix issues as they arise, further enhancing productivity. For those looking for an advanced alternative to traditional terminal emulators, Attune provides powerful tools for managing complex IT environments.

Why Attune is a Supercharged PuTTY

Attune takes things to the next level compared to traditional SSH clients like PuTTY. While PuTTY is great for providing basic access to remote servers, Attune goes far beyond that by introducing IT automation and orchestration.

Instead of simply connecting to a system, it allows users to automate routine tasks like deployments, scaling, and backups, saving time and effort.

With this software, you don’t need to install additional software on the devices you manage. This simplifies the process and reduces the chance of errors. By automating repetitive tasks, Attune helps streamline operations, reduce human error, and improve efficiency.

It’s an ideal tool for system administrators and IT teams who want more than basic connectivity—they want a full platform for managing complex IT environments.

For teams looking to boost productivity while managing multiple servers, Attune is a powerful alternative to PuTTY, offering not only connectivity but also automation and comprehensive system management.

Key Features

• IT Automation: Automate routine tasks like deployments, scaling, and backups, freeing up time and reducing manual work.
• Multi-Language Support: Use a variety of scripting languages, including Bash, PowerShell, and Python, for flexible and powerful management.
• Real-Time Debugging: Quickly troubleshoot and resolve issues as they arise, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
• Agentless Automation: Manage and control systems without needing to install additional software on target devices, simplifying your setup.
• Comprehensive Logging: Access detailed logs of all activities for easy tracking and review of changes and issues.

Termius

It can synchronise data across devices, which means you can start a session on your laptop and continue on your phone or tablet seamlessly.

Additionally, the client enables you to group servers, keeping your connections organised and easy to manage. Overall, Termius combines functionality with user-friendliness, making remote system management straightforward and efficient.

Key Features

• User-Friendly Interface: Termius boasts a clean and intuitive design, making it easy to use for both beginners and experienced users.
• Cross-Device Synchronisation: Your settings and connections are automatically synchronised across all your devices, ensuring a seamless experience whether you’re using a laptop, tablet, or phone.
• Secure Connections: With built-in encryption, Terminus ensures that your remote connections are safe and your data is protected.
• SFTP Support: Termius allows for secure file transfers between your local machine and remote servers using SFTP, simplifying file management.
• Server Grouping: organise your servers into groups for better management and quick access, making it easier to handle multiple systems efficiently.

Zoc

Zoc is a top-notch terminal emulator designed for professionals who need to manage various types of connections. Whether you’re working with SSH, Telnet, or serial connections, Zoc has you covered. It’s not just about connecting; it’s about making your work easier and more efficient.

You can tweak the settings to suit your preferences, which helps you work in a way that’s most comfortable for you. It also includes scripting capabilities, allowing you to automate repetitive tasks and streamline your workflow.

File transfers are a breeze with Zoc, making it simple to move files between your local machine and remote systems. Plus, the tabbed interface is a game-changer for managing multiple sessions.

Key Features

• Support for Multiple Protocols: Zoc handles SSH, Telnet, and serial connections, making it versatile for various types of remote access.
• High Customisability: Tailor the settings and interface to fit your preferences, allowing you to work in the way that’s most comfortable for you.
• Scripting Capabilities: Automate repetitive tasks with built-in scripting features, streamlining your workflow and boosting productivity.
• File Transfer Support: Easily transfer files between your local machine and remote systems, simplifying file management.
• Tabbed Interface: Manage multiple sessions simultaneously with a tabbed interface, allowing for quick switching and efficient multitasking.

Hyper

Hyper is an open-source terminal emulator that’s quite different from the typical ones. It’s built using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, which gives it a unique, modern look and feel. The sleek user interface makes it visually appealing, and it’s designed with simplicity in mind.

What sets Hyper apart is its customisability. Since it’s built on web technologies, users can easily tweak and modify it to suit their needs. One of its coolest features is the ability to install plugins, which lets you add extra functionality based on your specific workflow. Whether you want to change how the terminal looks or add new features to streamline your tasks, Hyper makes it easy.

If you’re looking for a terminal that combines modern design with flexibility, Hyper is a great option to explore.

Key Features

• Modern User Interface: Hyper has a sleek and polished design, offering a visually appealing experience compared to traditional terminals.
• Open-Source: Being open-source means Hyper is constantly evolving, with contributions from developers around the world to improve its features and functionality.
• Built with Web Technologies: Since it’s built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, Hyper is highly flexible and easy to customise for those familiar with web development.
• Cross-Platform: Hyper works on multiple operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux, giving you a consistent experience no matter which platform you’re using.

iTerm2

iTerm2 is a widely used and powerful terminal emulator designed specifically for macOS users. It’s packed with features that make managing tasks and working with remote systems easier and more efficient.

One of its standout capabilities is the split panes feature, which allows you to divide your terminal window into multiple sections. This is great for multitasking since you can run different commands or sessions side by side.

What’s nice about iTerm2 is the personalisation options. You can fully personalise the interface, colour schemes, and shortcuts to suit your preferences. It’s especially useful for developers and system administrators who need a flexible and robust terminal for handling complex workflows.

Key Features

• Split Panes: You can divide your terminal into multiple panes, allowing you to run several sessions at once in the same window, perfect for multitasking.
• Advanced Search: Easily search through your terminal history to find specific commands or text, saving time when looking for past information.
• Session Management: Save and restore terminal sessions, making it easier to jump back into your work without setting everything up again.
• macOS Integration: Designed specifically for macOS, iTerm2 blends seamlessly with the operating system, providing a smooth and optimised experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PuTTy available for Mac?

PuTTY was originally designed for Windows, but you can use it on macOS by installing it through third-party tools like Homebrew. However, it’s not natively supported, and the macOS version lacks the seamless integration you’d expect from a native Mac application.

What is the equivalent of PuTTy for Mac?

There are several excellent alternatives to PuTTY for macOS, with Attune, being the best alternative for PuTTY. Other popular equivalents include iTerm2, which offers more advanced features like split panes and session management, and Termius, which supports cross-device synchronisation and a user-friendly interface.

Which tool is better than putty?

If you’re looking for more than just basic terminal access, tools like Attune, Termius, and Zoc are often considered better than PuTTY. They offer advanced features such as split panes, tabbed sessions, custom scripting, and automation, making them more powerful and efficient for managing remote systems.

Final Thoughts

While PuTTY is a reliable choice, macOS users have some great alternatives that offer better integration and more features.

If you’re looking for something with advanced terminal options, smoother session management, or even automation tools, there are some excellent PuTTY alternatives. iTerm2, Termius, Zoc, Hyper, and Attune can all take your workflow to the next level, making it easier and faster to manage remote systems and get things done more efficiently.