Exploring Network Protocols: Telnet,
SSH, FTP, and RDP
1. Introduction
Network protocols allow communication between devices over a network. This document
explains Telnet, SSH, FTP, and RDP.
2. Telnet
Telnet is a protocol used for remote command-line access over port 23. It is not secure
because it does not encrypt data.
Uses:
- Remote access to devices
- Network testing
Configuration:
Install telnet server (Linux): sudo apt install telnetd
Enable client (Windows): Turn on Telnet Client in features
Usage:
telnet <IP_address> <port>
Example:
telnet [Link] 23
Tools:
- telnet
- netcat (nc)
3. SSH (Secure Shell)
SSH is a secure protocol for remote access using encryption over port 22.
Uses:
- Secure remote login
- File transfer (SCP, SFTP)
Configuration:
sudo apt install openssh-server
sudo systemctl start ssh
Usage:
ssh username@IP_address
Key commands:
ssh-keygen
scp [Link] user@host:/path
Tools:
- ssh
- scp
- sftp
- PuTTY
4. FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
FTP is used to transfer files between systems over port 21. It is not secure by default.
Uses:
- Upload/download files
- Website file management
Configuration:
sudo apt install vsftpd
Edit /etc/[Link]
Usage:
ftp <IP_address>
Commands:
ls, cd, get, put, bye
Tools:
- ftp
- FileZilla
- WinSCP
5. RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol)
RDP allows remote graphical access to a computer over port 3389.
Uses:
- Remote desktop control
- IT support
Configuration:
Enable Remote Desktop in Windows settings
Linux: install xrdp
Usage:
Windows: mstsc
Linux: rdesktop <IP> or xfreerdp
6. Comparison
Telnet - Port 23 - Not secure - Command line
SSH - Port 22 - Secure - Command line
FTP - Port 21 - Not secure - File transfer
RDP - Port 3389 - Secure - Graphical interface
7. Conclusion
SSH and RDP are secure and commonly used today. Telnet and FTP are outdated and should
be replaced with secure alternatives.