Best Tera Term Alternatives in 2025
Looking for alternatives to Tera Term? In this comparison, we take a closer look at Tera Term alongside similar software solutions including Tera Term, WinSCP, FileZilla Server, TightVNC, AnyDesk and Xshell.
Our detailed comparison table highlights key features, pricing, and performance of these leading solutions, empowering you to make an informed decision. Whether you're seeking robust functionality, user-friendly design, or cost-effective alternatives, explore how Tera Term, WinSCP, FileZilla Server, TightVNC, AnyDesk and Xshell stack up to find the perfect software for your goals.
File Transfer Protocol Support
 Tera Term
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Supports built-in FTP and multiple communication protocols including SSH and Telnet. |
 WinSCP
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Supports multiple file transfer protocols including SCP, SFTP, FTP, and FTPS with advanced security features. |
 FileZilla Server
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Supports FTP, FTPS with user access rights and folder restrictions. |
 TightVNC
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Includes a file transfer feature over VNC/RFB protocols. |
 AnyDesk
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Provides file transfer along with remote desktop capabilities across multiple platforms. |
 Xshell
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Includes a built-in file transfer manager supporting SFTP, FTP through SSH. |
Security Features
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Tera Term
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Supports SSH with limited modern security practices and outdated interface. |
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WinSCP
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Offers advanced security features including SSH encryption, private key authentication, password encryption, and advanced cryptographic protocols. |
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FileZilla Server
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Supports SSL/TLS encryption, Active Directory and LDAP for user authentication. |
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TightVNC
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Provides encrypted connections for secure remote access but may suffer compatibility issues. |
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AnyDesk
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Uses strong encryption algorithms and two-factor authentication for secure connections. |
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Xshell
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Offers strong encryption algorithms including AES, 3DES, Blowfish with public key authentication support. |
Platform Support and Pricing
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Tera Term
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Free and open-source software primarily for Windows; limited support on Linux and macOS. |
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WinSCP
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Free and open-source software available for all Windows versions; no native macOS or Linux support. |
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FileZilla Server
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Free and open-source FTP server for various Windows versions including Windows 10, 8.1, 7, and server editions. |
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TightVNC
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Free and open-source remote control software available on Windows, Linux, macOS with support for personal and commercial use. |
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AnyDesk
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Proprietary remote desktop software available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS offering free personal use with paid plans for additional features. |
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Xshell
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Paid terminal emulator software for Windows with a free 30-day trial; supports Windows desktop operating systems only. |
Choosing the right software isn’t just about features. Size, license type, user ratings, and popularity also matter.
This quick comparison shows how Tera Term stacks up against Tera Term, WinSCP, FileZilla Server, TightVNC, AnyDesk and Xshell in these key areas—helping you find the best alternative for your needs.