PuTTY

A free, open-source and very configurable PC tool, Putty — often stylized as PuTTY — is a remote shell client that permits you to use a client for Telnet, SSH and raw TCP protocols at your convenience. In some instances, it also does wonders with helping you connect to a PC game that only can be played online -- primarily MUDs.

PuTTY actually has become more of use in recent times since Microsoft no longer ships its Windows operating system with HyperTerminal. When it comes to cost comparison, PuTTY also comes with the great advantage of not costing a dime in order to use. Why pay for a commercial product when PuTTY is totally free and open-source, meaning it is customizable and fully configurable?

The only minor disadvantage with PuTTY is that it is not technically finished yet. As of December 2011, the program version 0.62 was released, and it has remained there since then. Additionally, it can be a little overwhelming to see all of the different ways that you can configure your options with the program. While it is not strictly for advanced and experienced users, it may not be the best choice for those who are brand new to SSH and Telnet clients in this manner.

As previously stated, playing MUDs is another great use for PuTTY. To provide a popular example, Multi-Users in Middle Earth, more commonly referred to as MUME, offers a connection through PuTTY for those interested in playing the online game but who do not want to use Java through the website. This method also allows users to customize the screen color and set up shortcut phrases to perform complex or unique tricks, such as condensing multiple actions into a single action word.

All in all, with high customization and no cost, PuTTY is difficult to beat.