ConnectBot

What ConnectBot is

ConnectBot is a free, open-source Android client for connecting to remote machines and using their shell from a phone. It supports SSH and Telnet, can maintain simultaneous SSH sessions in tabs, and can transfer files to and from the device. Users can save connection details in a Host List and reopen a server later. The app can create secure tunnels and supports port forwarding. Its terminal guide describes on-screen access to Ctrl, Esc, arrow, and other keys, while reusable profiles let users set terminal colors and font size. GitHub releases offer a Google Play Services build and an OSS build that includes the cryptography provider in the APK. The project says network data travels directly between the phone and selected server rather than through ConnectBot’s developer infrastructure. Server usernames and passwords are stored on the device, where the developers cannot access them. Private keys are left out of Android system backups by default, with an app setting to opt in. The privacy policy says OSS builds have no telemetry or tracking; Google Play builds may involve Google processing technical data. ConnectBot was founded in 2007, and its project directs questions to the #connectbot channel on Libera.Chat.

Who it suits

ConnectBot suits Android users who need to access remote machines over SSH or Telnet from a phone, including users who want multiple sessions and terminal controls on screen. Its public source code may also suit people who want to audit an SSH client.

Getting started

1. Visit the ConnectBot website or find its release builds on GitHub.
2. Choose the Google Play Services build or the OSS build.
3. Install ConnectBot on an Android device.
4. Save SSH connection details in the Host List, then open the server.

Verdict

Choose ConnectBot if you need a free Android client for remote shell access, SSH sessions, and file transfers. Its open-source code and locally stored credentials may appeal to users who value control over their connection data; those needing a platform other than Android should look elsewhere.