Xshell 4

Key Features

User defined key map support

User requests for a key mapping feature has been implemented in Xshell 4. Terminal keys and file menus can be mapped to users' preferred keys, and you can even map a key to start an application or to start scripting.

Task automation with scripting (VB Script)

With the new Scripting feature, you can automate the repeated tasks. Various features in Xshell can be accessed through scripting including file menu items, toolbar features and terminal.

All new Links bar

You can add a favorite session to the Link bar by clicking on the Add button on the Link bar. The Favorite bar can also reuse the information in the active terminal and eliminate the need to create a user session manually.

Supporting multiple languages for global users

Xshell now supports UTF8 encoding. With UTF8 support, Xshell can now display multiple languages in a single terminal screen. This feature is particularly useful if your database has entries in different languages. You can switch to UTF8 encoding by selecting Unicode (UTF8) in the Encoding list on the Standard toolbar.

Switching layout by pressing short key

Layout switch is a unique Xshell feature that lets you define customized Xshell layouts and switch between them with a simple key combination. Press ALT + L simultaneously to switch between layouts anytime while using Xshell.

Using Session tab to open multiple sessions in a single window

Session tab lets you open multiple sessions in a single Xshell window. A session is added to the Session tab when it starts and users can freely switch the displayed name, close the session, and rearrange the order. For system and network administrators who need to access multiple servers occasionally, the session tab feature can reduce the desktop clutter and provide a more flexible work environment.

Using local shell interface to control Xshell

Local shell interface is a unique Xshell feature that lets you control Xshell without having to take your hands off the keyboard. Some of the actions you can perform in local shell include establishing SSH/TELNET/RLOGIN/SFTP connection, creating new sessions, opening existing sessions, etc. Local shell also provides network utilities such as ping, iptrace, and netstat those of which you normally had to use separate programs are now incorporated into local shell.

Using Compose bar to send a string to multiple servers at once.

Compose bar lets you write a query before it is sent to the server. Users can decide to send it to all connected servers at once or just one time. The Compose bar can be especially usefuil to server administrators who need to send the same commands to multiple servers to check the status of servers. The Compose bar also has history feature built in, so you do not need to type the same command twice.

Using tunneling bar for real time channel monitoring (SSH)

Tunneling bar provides real time monitoring of all incoming and outgoing SSH traffic. If you have an X application that freezes frequently, you can specifically target the channel the application uses and terminate it without effecting other running applications. This ensures tighter integration and reliability of your servers and Windows machines.

Using Dynamic Port Forwarding with Tunneling bar (SSH)

Tunneling bar shows the status of active and suspended SSH tunnels and offers dynamic port forwarding capability. Dynamic port forwarding is a unique Xshell feature that lets users set their port forwarding rules on the fly. The tunneling bar lets you add and terminate or even suspend and resume port forwarding rules without having to restart Xshell.

Sending response automatically with Wait & Response

Wait & response feature sends predefined set responses when a user specified message is received from servers. This feature is especially useful when the destination server can only be reached by going through an intermediate server. Define a set of responses, and Xshell can carry you through the intermediate server as well as the destination server. Without altering the server side, the wait & response feature can be set to run scripts or system utilities upon login.

Using full screen view to use your entire monitor as a terminal

Full screen view turns your entire monitor into a terminal screen. You may feel as if you are sitting right in front of the server. Since the full screen view can fit much more information in a single screen, you can spend less time scrolling and spend more time getting your work done. Full screen view can also be used with Session tab (link) to quickly switch between open sessions.

Sending terminal contents to Notepad with click of a button

Xshell can send the terminal contents to Notepad with a click of a button. There are 3 options you can choose from. First option is 'Send All' and it sends the entire session history from the start to end. The second option is 'Screen' and it sends what is displayed on the screen. Lastly, the 'Selected Area' option sends just the highlighted area.

Interoperability: Xftp for file transfer

Xshell interoperates with all other NetSarang products. For example, Xshell starts Xftp when a user clicks on the Xftp button on the Xshell toolbar. Xshell then passes the session information to Xftp allowing Xftp to log transparently to the server. With its interoperability features, there is less hassle in opening a file transfer client.

Launching X applications through SSH tunnel (X11 forwarding)

Xshell can interoperate with Xmanager to launch X11 applications through SSH tunnel. This is secure and reliable way to use applications in the remote servers and it is preferred over TELNET and other protocols. If your PC is located in NAT network, SSH can launch X applications without having to reconfigure your network.

Making a quick SSH/Telnet connection using the Address bar

The Xshell address bar is the quickest and the easiest way to access your hosts. Type in the domain name or the IP address of the host in the Address bar, and click Go. It is as simple as surfing websites.

Using Quick Command to send frequently used commands and strings

Quick Command lets you assign frequently used commands or strings into buttons. Oftentimes, users have to retype the same string repeatedly, and Quick command saves time by Quick command buttons lets you send these repetitive strings with just click of a button. Also, you can group these Quick buttons.

Securing your communication with the server using the SSH protocol

SSH protocol is one of the most secure remote communication protocols available in the market today and it is included in Xshell by default. With SSH, all of your network communications between your PC and the remote hosts are encrypted with highly reliable encryption algorithms. There is more to SSH than security. X11Forwarding feature of SSH lets you run any remote X application through a secure SSH tunnel regardless of the complexity of your network environment.

Generating the user/public key with SSH Key Generation Wizard

On top of password authentication, public key authentication can provide the extra security for your server. But adopting the public key system can be very tricky at first. To ease this process, User Key Generation Wizard guides you through each step by selecting the key type (DSA/RSA) to passphrase in simple point and click format. By creating the user key in your PC, you can prevent unnecessary transfer of the key and from getting it in the wrong hands.

Xactivator for convenient and quick access to your servers

Xactivator is a handy tool that stays in the tray icon area. You can activate Xshell sessions right from the tray icon area. With just a few clicks, Xactivator can launch a new Xshell window, or switch between active sessions. If you have to frequently open and close sessions, Xactivator can help you untangle your desktop space.