Bitvise SSH Client is not natively available for Ubuntu; it is a Windows-only application. While some users attempt to run it on Ubuntu using compatibility layers like Wine, results are often buggy or non-functional.

For the best experience on Ubuntu, it is highly recommended to use native Linux SSH clients that offer similar or superior features. Option 1: Native Alternatives (Recommended)

Since Bitvise is used for its graphical interface (SFTP/GUI) and terminal management, these Linux-native tools are direct replacements: 12 Best Bitvise Alternatives & Competitors in (Apr 2026)

Bitvise SSH Client is not natively available for Linux, as it is specifically built for Windows environments. While some Windows applications can be run on Ubuntu using compatibility layers like Wine, it is generally recommended to use native Linux clients that offer the same features—such as terminal access and graphical SFTP—more reliably. Why Bitvise is Different on Ubuntu Bitvise SSH Client

Important Clarification: Bitvise SSH Client (Tunnelier) is native software designed exclusively for Microsoft Windows. It relies on the Windows API and does not have a version compiled for Linux/Ubuntu.

However, you can still run it on Ubuntu by using Wine (a compatibility layer that runs Windows apps on Linux) or by using a Virtual Machine.

Below is an informative guide on how to achieve this using Wine, along with native Linux alternatives that are generally recommended over running Bitvise on Ubuntu.

2. Prerequisites & Compatibility Check

| Requirement | Details | |-------------|---------| | Ubuntu version | 20.04 LTS or newer (22.04, 24.04 recommended) | | Architecture | 64-bit (Wine supports 32/64-bit) | | Wine version | 6.0 or higher (Wine 9.0+ ideal) | | Disk space | ~500 MB for Wine + Bitvise | | Internet | Required for downloading Wine & Bitvise |

Tested working: Bitvise SSH Client 8.x, 9.x on Ubuntu 22.04/24.04 with Wine 9.0.

7. Step 5: Basic Configuration & First Connection

Once Bitvise GUI appears:

  1. In the Login tab, enter:

    • Hostname: your SSH server IP or domain
    • Port: 22 (default)
    • Username: your SSH username
    • Initial method: password or public key

  2. Click Login.

  3. If connecting for the first time, accept the host key.

  4. Success: You’ll see a terminal window (shell) and an SFTP window appears (if enabled).

To save a profile:
Click Save Profile As... and store it anywhere (e.g., in ~/Documents/). Bitvise saves profiles as .bscp files.

Installing Bitvise SSH Client on Ubuntu

Bitvise SSH Client is a free and popular SSH client for Windows, but it can also be installed on Ubuntu using Wine, a compatibility layer that allows running Windows applications on Linux. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to install Bitvise SSH Client on Ubuntu: