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libssh2/libssh2

Free

the SSH library

FreeFree tier
Type
Open Source

About libssh2/libssh2

libssh2 is a C library implementing the SSH2 protocol, available under the revised BSD license. It provides support for SFTP, SCP, and various authentication methods, making it suitable for building secure network applications. The library is cross-platform and widely used in open source projects.

Key Features

SSH2 protocol implementation
SFTP client support
SCP support
BSD-3-Clause licensed
Written in C
Cross-platform support
Multiple authentication methods (password, public key, keyboard-interactive)

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Open source under BSD-3-Clause license
  • Lightweight and efficient C library
  • Cross-platform (Linux, macOS, Windows, etc.)
  • Widely used and well-maintained
  • Supports standard SSH2 features
Cons
  • Requires C programming knowledge to integrate
  • Low-level library, not a standalone client

Best For

Secure file transfer using SFTPSecure file transfer using SCPBuilding SSH2 client applications in CRemote command execution and shell access