Networking & Internet
Telnet
Definition
Telnet is an application protocol used on the Internet or local area networks to provide a bidirectional interactive text-oriented communication facility using a virtual terminal connection. User data is interspersed in-band with Telnet control information in an 8-bit byte oriented data connection over the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP).
Why It Matters
Telnet was one of the earliest protocols for remotely accessing and managing network devices and servers. It is important for historical context, but it should not be used today.
Contextual Example
In the past, a network administrator would use a Telnet client to log into a remote server and run commands.
Common Misunderstandings
- Telnet is completely insecure. It transmits all data, including usernames and passwords, in plain text, making it easy to intercept.
- It has been completely replaced by the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol for remote management.