Telnet

1
Telnet

• Traditional Terminal-Host Communication
• Log into host computer
• You can run programs there, such as E-mail
• Processing is done on the host
• Expensive if long-distance connection

Host
Terminal or PC Emulating a Terminal
Phone Line
2
Telnet

• Uses Internet to Connect to Host
• Can access host from anywhere on the Internet
• Telnet Software on Client Host
• Manages login, use, and disconnections

Telnet
Telnet
3
Telnet

• Poor User Interface
• Based on dumb VT100 terminal (Module H)
• Text-only display
• Monochrome (One color for text, one for
  background)
• Have to type command-line commands
• Often have complex syntax

4
Why Not POP and IMAP?

• Not all mail hosts support POP and IMAP
• With most mail readers, you have to store contact
  information within some preferences file
• Inconvenient in school labs or Internet cafes
• Telnet is not limited to e-mail
• Can be used with other applications