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Varkuna Connect user guide

A step-by-step guide to managing terminal sessions, file transfers and saved connections in one Windows and Linux desktop workspace.

Windows / Linux SSH / Telnet FTP / FTPS SFTP
Useful links

Open the product page or get the current version before following the guide.

Before you start

Choose the correct connection type

Selecting a protocol supported by your server prevents many connection and security problems.

SSH

For encrypted remote terminal sessions and the recommended terminal choice on most servers.

Telnet

Provides terminal access but does not encrypt traffic. Use only on trusted networks and required legacy systems.

FTP / FTPS

For file transfer. FTPS protects the FTP connection with TLS.

SFTP

Secure file transfer over SSH; it is not the same protocol as FTP or FTPS.

Telnet is not encrypted

Use SSH whenever the server supports it to protect usernames, passwords and session data.

Setup

Create a saved profile or Quick Connect session

  1. Step 1
    Select a connection type

    Open SSH, Telnet, FTP/FTPS or SFTP on the New Connection screen.

  2. Step 2
    Enter the server details

    Fill in a profile name, address, port and user; then choose a password or key when the protocol requires it.

  3. Step 3
    Save or connect once

    Save regular connections. Use Quick Connect on the home screen for a one-time session.

  4. Step 4
    Verify the first connection

    Review the SSH host key or FTPS certificate before opening the session.

Varkuna Connect new connection screen
Example screenThe New Connection screen shows the fields required by the selected protocol.
Terminal

Manage SSH and Telnet sessions in tabs

Keep multiple terminal sessions open in separate tabs and switch quickly between saved profiles.

Tab organization

Use a separate tab for each server and verify the active server before sending a command.

Appearance settings

Adjust terminal theme, font size and behavior in Settings.

Close safely

Exit the remote shell cleanly and close its tab when your work is complete.

Varkuna Connect terminal tabs
Example screenThe tabbed workspace keeps terminal sessions for different servers separate.
File management

Transfer files with FTP, FTPS or SFTP

  1. Step 1
    Open the file connection

    Select FTP/FTPS or SFTP according to the server.

  2. Step 2
    Check source and destination

    Confirm the correct local and remote folders.

  3. Step 3
    Start the operation

    Upload, download, rename or manage folders as needed.

  4. Step 4
    Verify the transfer

    Check the name, size and destination, then test important server-side changes.

Choosing SFTP

Use an SFTP profile for secure file transfer when the server provides SSH access and an SFTP subsystem.

Security

Manage saved data securely

Windows protection

On Windows, saved passwords and key passphrases are protected with the operating system’s DPAPI.

Key files

An SSH key file is not copied into the app; its path is referenced. Re-select it if the file is moved or deleted.

Server verification

Review SSH fingerprints and FTPS certificate warnings on first use and after unexpected changes.

Shared computers

Avoid saving passwords on shared systems and lock or close the app after use.

Varkuna Connect settings screen
Example screenConfigure language, terminal appearance and application behavior in Settings.
Checklist

Troubleshoot by protocol

SSH or Telnet does not open

Check the host, port and protocol. Confirm the service is running and the firewall permits the connection.

FTP connects but cannot list folders

Check passive mode and server data ports. For FTPS, also review the certificate and TLS settings.

SFTP authentication failed

Check the SSH username, password or key path. Re-select a key file that was moved.

A profile behaves unexpectedly

Edit it and recheck protocol and port. If the issue continues, send the exact error and app version through Support.

Still having trouble?

Use the support form for bug reports, suggestions or usage questions.

Get support