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What Exactly Is Telnet and What Does It Do?

Connect to other computer systems using a fast, simple protocol

By Paul Gil Paul Gil Writer Paul Gil, a former Lifewire writer who is also known for his dynamic internet and database courses and has been active in technology fields for over two decades. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on March 27, 2022 Reviewed by Ryan Perian Reviewed by Ryan Perian Western Governors University Ryan Perian is a certified IT specialist who holds numerous IT certifications and has 12+ years' experience working in the IT industry support and management positions. lifewire's editorial guidelines Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email

In This Article

Expand Jump to a Section The Beginning of Telnet Telnet Gives Way to SSH No Graphics Here Telnet is a computer protocol that provides two-way interactive communication compatibility for computers on the internet and local area networks. Telnet has a command-line interface and is famous for being the original protocol from when the internet first launched in 1969. In time, Telnet's use declined in favor of SSH (Secure Shell or Secure Socket Shell) due to security concerns when it was used over an open network. Telnet lacks authentication policies and data encryption.

The Beginning of Telnet

Telnet refers to a network virtual terminal protocol. The acronym comes from teletype network, terminal network, or telecommunications network, depending on which source you believe. It was built as a form of remote control to manage mainframe computers from distant terminals. Funtap / Getty Images Telnet enabled research students and professors to log in to a university mainframe from any terminal in the building in the days of large mainframe computers. This remote login saved researchers hours of walking each semester. While Telnet pales in comparison to modern networking technology, it was revolutionary in 1969, and Telnet helped pave the way for the World Wide Web in 1989.

Telnet Gives Way to SSH

In time, insecure Telnet evolved into the newer SSH network protocol, which modern network administrators use to manage Linux and Unix computers from a distance. SSH provides strong authentication and secures encrypted data communications between computers over an insecure network.

No Graphics Here

Unlike Firefox or Google Chrome screens, Telnet screens are unremarkable to view. Telnet is all about typing on a keyboard. It has none of the graphic elements we expect from web pages today. Telnet commands can be cryptic, with example commands including z and prompt% fg. Most modern users would find Telnet screens to be archaic and slow. Telnet is rarely used to connect computers anymore because of its lack of security. However, it is still functional; there's a Telnet client in Windows (10, 8, 7, and Vista), although you may have to enable Telnet first. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Use the Telnet Client in Windows What Is Antivirus and What Does It Do? What's Conhost.exe in Windows? What Does it Do? What Does Lockdown Mode Mean on Apple Devices? How to Use the Netstat Command on Mac What Is the wmiprvse.exe Process and What Does It Do? The Most Popular TCP and UDP Port Numbers What Is Network Encryption? What Is an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)? What Is TDMA and What Does It Do? What Is the sppextcomobjpatcher.exe Process and What Does It Do? What Is the Rundll32.exe Process and What Does It Do? What Is a Sound Card & What Does It Do? What Does It Mean to Archive a Post on Instagram? What Does SNMP Mean? What Is USB OTG and What Does It Do? Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies