What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Windows 11 provides OpenSSH Server as an optional Feature on Demand; it is not installed by default. OpenSSH Server is separate from OpenSSH Client, so installing the client alone does not let other computers connect to this PC.
To set up the server, install OpenSSH Server, start the sshd service, set it to start automatically, and verify the Windows Defender Firewall rule for TCP port 22. You need an account in the local Administrators group and access to Windows Update, unless your organization supplies the required Feature on Demand files through another source.
Check the prerequisites
Open an elevated PowerShell window for the command-line steps. To open one, right-click Start and select Terminal (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin). PowerShell 5.1 or later is required for the command-line installation method.
Check the Windows version, PowerShell version, and administrator status with:
#1 Best Overall
- Effortlessly chic. Always efficient. Finish your to-do list in no time with the Dell 15, built for everyday computing with Intel Core 3 processor.
- Designed for easy learning: Energy-efficient batteries and Express Charge support extend your focus and productivity.
- Stay connected to what you love: Spend more screen time on the things you enjoy with Dell ComfortView software that helps reduce harmful blue light emissions to keep your eyes comfortable over extended viewing times.
- Type with ease: Write and calculate quickly with roomy keypads, separate numeric keypad and calculator hotkey.
- Ergonomic support: Keep your wrists comfortable with lifted hinges that provide an ergonomic typing angle.
winver.exe
$PSVersionTable.PSVersion
(New-Object Security.Principal.WindowsPrincipal([Security.Principal.WindowsIdentity]::GetCurrent())).IsInRole([Security.Principal.WindowsBuiltInRole]::Administrator)
The last command should return True. If it returns False, close the window and reopen PowerShell with administrator privileges. OpenSSH support is included for Windows 11 and Windows 10 version 1809 and later.
Method 1: Install OpenSSH Server from Settings
On current Windows 11 builds with the latest cumulative update installed:
- Right-click Start and select Settings.
- Open System and select Optional features.
- Under Add an optional feature, select View features.
- Search for OpenSSH Server.
- Select its checkbox, then select Next.
- Select Add and wait for installation to finish.
After installation, OpenSSH Server should appear in the installed-features list.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →On some Windows 11 versions or installations that are not fully updated, Optional features may appear under Settings > Apps. Open the page directly by pressing Win+R, entering ms-settings:optionalfeatures, and pressing Enter.
Method 2: Install OpenSSH Server with PowerShell
PowerShell is useful when setting up several computers or troubleshooting a failed graphical installation. In elevated PowerShell, list the OpenSSH capabilities:
Get-WindowsCapability -Online | Where-Object Name -like 'OpenSSH*'
A computer without either component normally shows both capabilities as NotPresent:
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesName : OpenSSH.Client~~~~0.0.1.0
State : NotPresent
Name : OpenSSH.Server~~~~0.0.1.0
State : NotPresent
Install only the server:
Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name OpenSSH.Server~~~~0.0.1.0
A successful operation normally returns an object similar to:
Path :
Online : True
RestartNeeded : False
OpenSSH Client is not required for incoming connections. Install it separately only if this PC must also initiate SSH connections:
Rank #2
- Efficient 2-Core, 4-Thread Performance for Everyday Use This traditional laptop computer delivers reliable performance with a 1.6GHz base frequency processor—ideal for web browsing, document editing, and multitasking. A solid choice among cheap laptops that don’t compromise on core functionality.
- Crisp 15.6-Inch Full HD IPS Display – Perfect for Work & Study Enjoy sharp visuals on a 15.6 inch laptop screen with FHD resolution (1920x1080), wide viewing angles, and vibrant colors. Whether you're taking notes or presenting online, this laptop for school or laptop for business keeps content clear and comfortable to view.
- 128GB M.2 SATA SSD & Expandable DDR3L Memory (Up to 16GB) Features a fast 128GB M.2 SATA SSD for quick boot-up and responsive operation. Pre-installed with 4GB DDR3L RAM and supports up to 16GB total memory (dual SO-DIMM slots, 8GB max per slot)—ideal for users planning to upgrade for smoother multitasking or light productivity.
- Long-Lasting 38.5Wh Battery – Up to 4 Hours Local Video Playback Equipped with a 7.7V 5000mAh (38.5Wh) battery that supports up to 4 hours of continuous local video playback on a full charge—perfect for watching movies, online classes, or working without frequent charging. Ideal for students, travelers, and remote users who need all-day power in a lightweight student laptop or office laptop.
- Modern Ports & Ready-to-Use Win System Stay connected with USB 3.0, USB-C (USB 2.0 function), HDMI (supports up to 4K@24Hz), microSD card slot (up to 1TB), Bluetooth 5.0, and dual-band WiFi. Preinstalled with a Win operating system and weighing just 3.8 lbs, it’s one of the most practical 15 inch laptops for home, school, or business use. A great-value lap top or computadora for everyday tasks.
Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name OpenSSH.Client~~~~0.0.1.0
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchStart the SSH service
Installing the capability does not guarantee that the SSH server is running or configured to start after a reboot. In elevated PowerShell, run:
Start-Service sshd
Set-Service -Name sshd -StartupType 'Automatic'
Confirm its state with Get-Service -Name sshd. The Status column should show Running. The service’s internal name is sshd; its display name in Windows is OpenSSH SSH Server.
You can also use the Services console:
- Press Win+R.
- Enter
services.mscand select OK. - Double-click OpenSSH SSH Server.
- Set Startup type to Automatic.
- Select Start, then select OK.
Check the Windows Firewall rule
Installing OpenSSH Server normally creates and enables an inbound rule named OpenSSH-Server-In-TCP. The standard rule allows inbound TCP traffic on port 22. Check whether it exists with:
Get-NetFirewallRule -Name "OpenSSH-Server-In-TCP" -ErrorAction SilentlyContinue
If the command produces no output, create the rule in elevated PowerShell:
New-NetFirewallRule `
-Name 'OpenSSH-Server-In-TCP' `
-DisplayName 'OpenSSH Server (sshd)' `
-Enabled True `
-Direction Inbound `
-Protocol TCP `
-Action Allow `
-LocalPort 22
This changes Windows Defender Firewall only. It does not open port 22 on a router, VPN appliance, cloud security group, corporate firewall, or other network device. Microsoft recommends restricting the rule to trusted source IP addresses where practical rather than allowing SSH from every address.
Verify that OpenSSH is listening
Check whether a process is listening on TCP port 22:
netstat -an | findstr :22
A normal result includes one or both of these entries:
Rank #3
- Efficient Intel Processor N150 delivers reliable performance for everyday computing tasks including web browsing, document editing, video streaming, and multitasking. 4GB DDR4 RAM ensures smooth operation when running multiple applications simultaneously. Perfect for students, home users, and professionals who need dependable performance for productivity work, online learning, video conferencing, and entertainment without lag or slowdowns.
- 128GB UFS storage provides fast boot times and quick application loading while offering ample space for documents, photos, videos, and essential software. Includes one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365 Personal with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and 1TB OneDrive cloud storage—everything you need to create professional documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and manage email right out of the box.
- 14" HD (1366 x 768) anti-glare display delivers clear, comfortable viewing for extended work sessions with reduced eye strain. Narrow bezels maximize screen real estate for immersive content consumption. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics handles everyday visual tasks, HD video playback, and light photo editing. Ideal screen size balances portability with productivity—large enough for comfortable multitasking yet compact enough to carry anywhere.
- Comprehensive connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for faster wireless speeds and improved network efficiency, Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless peripherals, USB-C port for modern accessories and fast data transfer, USB 3.2 ports, HDMI output for external displays or projectors, and 3.5mm audio jack. HD webcam with integrated microphone enables crystal-clear video calls for remote work, online classes, and staying connected with family and friends.
- Windows 11 Home operating system provides intuitive interface with enhanced productivity features, improved security, and seamless integration with Microsoft services. Full-size keyboard with numeric keypad for efficient data entry. Lightweight and portable design makes it easy to work from anywhere—home, office, classroom, or coffee shop. Long battery life supports all-day productivity. Backed by HP’s quality and reliability with customer support available.
TCP 0.0.0.0:22 0.0.0.0:0 LISTENING
TCP [::]:22 [::]:0 LISTENING
Test the server locally with ssh localhost. On the first connection, SSH may display a host-key warning and ask whether you trust the key. Enter yes to continue, then provide the password for a permitted Windows account. Use exit to close the test session.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →From another computer on the same network, connect using the Windows account name and the computer name:
ssh username@hostname
You can use the server’s IP address instead, for example ssh username@192.0.2.10. The account must be a valid local or Active Directory account permitted to sign in. Microsoft Entra ID accounts are not currently supported for OpenSSH authentication.
Change the default SSH shell to PowerShell
Windows OpenSSH starts cmd.exe by default. To open Windows PowerShell 5.1 in SSH sessions, create the DefaultShell registry value from elevated PowerShell:
$NewItemPropertyParams = @{
Path = "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\OpenSSH"
Name = "DefaultShell"
Value = "C:\Windows\System32\WindowsPowerShell\v1.0\powershell.exe"
PropertyType = "String"
Force = $true
}
New-ItemProperty @NewItemPropertyParams
Restart-Service sshd
This changes the shell started by the server. It does not change which ssh.exe program the local SSH client uses.
Configure the OpenSSH server
The default server configuration file is C:\ProgramData\ssh\sshd_config. If the file does not exist, sshd generates one with default settings when the service starts. Configuration changes take effect after restarting the service.
Validate the file before restarting:
sshd -t
If this command reports an error, correct the configuration before running Restart-Service sshd. A syntax error in sshd_config can prevent the service from restarting, so validating first helps avoid taking down a working SSH connection.
Recommended Free Tools
Set up public-key authentication
For a standard, non-administrator Windows account, place the client’s public key in C:\Users\<username>\.ssh\authorized_keys.
Rank #4
- 14” Diagonal HD BrightView WLED-Backlit (1366 x 768), Intel Graphics,
- Intel Celeron Dual-Core Processor Up to 2.60GHz, 4GB RAM, 64GB SSD
- 3x USB Type A,1x SD Card Reader, 1x Headphone/Microphone
- 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, HP Webcam with Integrated Digital Microphone
- Windows 11 OS, Dale Blue
For an account in the local Administrators group, Windows OpenSSH instead uses C:\ProgramData\ssh\administrators_authorized_keys. This administrator key file should be accessible only by SYSTEM and the built-in Administrators group. Run this in elevated PowerShell:
icacls.exe "C:\ProgramData\ssh\administrators_authorized_keys" `
/inheritance:r `
/grant "Administrators:F" `
/grant "SYSTEM:F"
On a non-English Windows installation, the group may not be named Administrators. Use its built-in group SID instead:
icacls.exe "C:\ProgramData\ssh\administrators_authorized_keys" `
/inheritance:r `
/grant "*S-1-5-32-544:F" `
/grant "SYSTEM:F"
Keep the private key on the client computer. Only the corresponding public key belongs on the Windows 11 server. If SSH reports Permission denied (publickey), check that the key is in the correct account-specific location and that the file’s ACLs are acceptable.
Troubleshoot common installation and connection errors
Add-WindowsCapability fails with 0x800F0954
This error commonly appears when Windows cannot obtain the Feature on Demand payload. Typical causes include lack of internet access, WSUS configuration, or Group Policy that prevents Windows Update from supplying optional components.
On Windows 11 version 24H2 and later, review the policy at:
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System
The relevant policy is Specify settings for optional component installation and component repair. On managed computers, an administrator may need to provide a matching Feature on Demand source or adjust the update policy. Installing the separate Win32-OpenSSH package is not normally necessary for a standard Windows 11 installation.
The service is installed but will not start
Check the service, configuration, and listener:
Get-Service -Name sshd
sshd -t
netstat -an | findstr :22
Then inspect Event Viewer > Applications and Services Logs > OpenSSH > Operational. Missing or incorrectly permissioned host keys can also prevent startup. Host keys are stored in C:\ProgramData\ssh.
Best Value
- Edge-to-edge clarity: Enjoy crisp, expansive visuals on a 16-inch 2K display and a 16:10 aspect ratio—delivering a wide, immersive viewing experience.
- All-day comfort: Dell ComfortView Plus helps reduce harmful blue light emissions while preserving true-to-life color, keeping your eyes comfortable even during prolonged screen time.
- Ready for business: Flip between effortless productivity and captivating entertainment on a large, immersive screen powered by Intel Core processors and graphics.
- Built for virtual connection: Bring your connections to life with an up-to FHD camera, designed with wide dynamic range and temporal noise reduction to deliver crisp, sharp images, no matter the lighting conditions.
- Adaptive thermals: Built-in technology allows your PC to sense when it's on a stable surface and adjusts its power and thermals to run more efficiently.
Port 22 is not reachable remotely
Check the service, listener, and firewall rule as separate layers:
Get-Service -Name sshd
netstat -an | findstr :22
Get-NetFirewallRule -DisplayName "*SSH*" |
Get-NetFirewallPortFilter |
Where-Object {$_.LocalPort -eq 22}
If sshd is running and Windows is listening but remote connections still fail, investigate the network between the computers. A router, VPN, cloud firewall, or corporate security device may be blocking traffic.
The wrong SSH installation is being used
If multiple OpenSSH packages are installed, identify the client selected through PATH:
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Get-Command ssh.exe | Select-Object Source
The inbox client normally resides in C:\Windows\System32\OpenSSH. A manually installed Win32-OpenSSH package normally resides in C:\Program Files\OpenSSH. Multiple copies can cause unexpected versions, configuration files, or PATH conflicts.
FAQ
Does installing OpenSSH Client enable incoming SSH connections?
No. OpenSSH Client initiates connections. Incoming connections require the separate OpenSSH Server capability and the running sshd service.
Is OpenSSH Server already installed on Windows 11?
Normally, no. It is an optional Feature on Demand. Check with Get-WindowsCapability -Online | Where-Object Name -like 'OpenSSH*'.
What port does Windows OpenSSH use?
The default is TCP port 22. The OpenSSH-Server-In-TCP Windows Firewall rule normally allows that port, but verify the rule rather than assuming it is enabled.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Why does SSH open Command Prompt instead of PowerShell?
cmd.exe is the default Windows OpenSSH shell. Set the DefaultShell value under HKLM:\SOFTWARE\OpenSSH to the PowerShell executable and restart sshd.
Where do I put an authorized key for a Windows administrator?
Use C:\ProgramData\ssh\administrators_authorized_keys. Standard users normally use C:\Users\<username>\.ssh\authorized_keys.
Do Microsoft Entra ID accounts work with Windows OpenSSH?
Microsoft’s documented Windows OpenSSH authentication does not currently support Microsoft Entra ID accounts. Use a supported local or Active Directory account.
The Bottom Line
For a normal Windows 11 setup, install OpenSSH Server as a Windows optional feature, then run Start-Service sshd and set the service startup type to Automatic. Confirm that sshd is listening on port 22 and that OpenSSH-Server-In-TCP permits the required traffic. If installation fails with 0x800F0954, the problem is commonly Windows Update, WSUS, or Feature on Demand policy rather than OpenSSH itself.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
