Port Forward is a java-based software that facilitates the creation of communication pathways between your local computer and an SSH server, enabling users to forward ports.
One example of how Port Forward can be used is to open a local tunnel to access a remote mysql database. If you need to connect to a remote database server (like mysql) but find that the server is not configured to expose mysql to the internet directly, this software can help. By opening a local port (for example, port 3306), Port Forward can redirect the connections to the remote server's ssh server, which in turn will connect to its local mysql server.
Another common use case for Port Forward is to create a local tunnel to use a remote VNC desktop. For instance, when you want to connect to your home computer that has a VNC server while at work, but find that the firewall at the office blocks VNC connections (including port 5901). If you have a ssh server at home, you can use it as a bridge to connect to a client in your home. By giving 127.0.0.1:0 as the address, you can connect using a VNC client.
Finally, Port Forward can be used to create a remote tunnel to pilot a remote Linux server that is not reachable through the internet. This is an ideal solution when you want to pilot a remote PC, but find that the PC has no static IP or is behind a firewall. By activating Port Forward on the PC to be piloted and connecting it to a server that you can access, the remote man can connect and reach you.
With the latest version of Port Forward, you will also find a button that lets you select a command to execute upon connection with the server. Additionally, a small issue with removing items has been fixed. Overall, Port Forward is a comprehensive and reliable software solution that can help you open tunnels between your local computer and a remote ssh server with ease.
Version 1.4: N/A