Add machines from your SSH config
- Open PortPane and press ⌘N (or use the Add machine button) and choose From SSH config.
- Pick the hosts you want from the list PortPane reads out of
~/.ssh/config. - Connect by alias — PortPane launches Terminal and runs
ssh <alias>, so your configured keys,ProxyJump,LocalForwardand other options all apply.
Drop in connection files too
You can also drag .rdp, .vnc and .vncloc files onto the PortPane window to add those machines. Remote Desktop files open in the RDP app you have installed; VNC files open in macOS Screen Sharing.
What keeps working
- Aliases — connect with the short name you already use.
- Keys — your SSH keys stay in place; PortPane never stores a password or a private key.
- ProxyJump and port forwards — everything in your config applies when Terminal runs
ssh. - Behind a VPN? Add the machine by IP or hostname instead of relying on discovery.
First time? Turn on Remote Login on the machines you want to reach first. The Setup section walks through Screen Sharing and Remote Login on a Mac, Remote Desktop on Windows, and SSH on Linux and Raspberry Pi.
Common questions
Does importing my SSH config move my keys?
No. PortPane never copies or stores your private keys. It launches Terminal with your ~/.ssh/config, so your keys, aliases, ProxyJump and port forwards work exactly as they do in a normal ssh session.
What connection files can I import besides SSH?
You can drop .rdp, .vnc and .vncloc files onto the PortPane window. RDP files open in the Remote Desktop app you have installed; VNC files open in macOS Screen Sharing.
How do I add a machine that is not on my local network?
Add it by IP address or hostname, or join the same VPN first (for example Tailscale or WireGuard). Prefer a VPN over opening ports to the internet.