Telnet

Understanding Telnet

Telnet offers a way to log into another computer. By logging into another system, users can access Internet services that they might not have on their own computers. Other computer systems may offer newsgroups, latest versions of popular software, group games (also known as MUDs or multi-user dungeons), or live chat rooms. In order for this to work, both computers must be using the telnet protocol. The computer that you are connecting to will most likely ask you for a username and password. You can login anonymously on most public accounts. However, if you are trying to connect to a private account, you will need to have your own account set up before you login.

The computer that you are using is known as the local computer. The computer you are logging in to is known as the remote computer. The telnet application acts as a terminal emulator. This means that whatever commands you type in on your local machine are executed by the remote computer.

You need telnet software. Within the software, select "open connection" (or similar command), and enter a telnet address. You should always read the documentation that came with the particular application which you are using. Microsoft's Internet Explorer allows you to telnet directly from the browser window. Go to the address area of IE and type in telnet://some.net.address.com (instead of using http:// ).

Pay close attention to the messages about your connection. You will see the IP address of the remote computer as well as its domain name. Make sure you note what the telnet application tells you about the escape character. You will need to use the escape character if you wish to interrupt your remote session.

BACK
TOP