Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-19

How to Fix: "Network error: Software caused connection abort" with Windows OpenSSH server

Windows OpenSSH server error fix

Quick Answer: Check the SSH server logs for errors, and ensure that the firewall exception is correctly configured.

📋 Table of Contents

  1. 🛑 Root Causes of the Error
  2. ✅ Best Solutions to Fix It
  3. ✨ Wrapping Up

The 'Network error: Software caused connection abort' error message is often encountered by users when attempting to establish an SSH or SFTP connection using PuTTY or WinSCP. This issue affects individuals who have installed an OpenSSH server on Windows and are trying to connect to it remotely.

This problem can be particularly frustrating because the user has taken steps to ensure that the server is running and firewall exceptions are in place, yet they still encounter connectivity issues. In this troubleshooting guide, we will explore possible root causes and provide solutions to resolve this issue.

🛑 Root Causes of the Error

  • The primary reason for this error is a misconfiguration of the OpenSSH server or a conflicting application that interferes with the connection. This can occur when the server is not properly configured, or there are issues with the firewall rules or network settings.
  • Another possible cause is a problem with the PuTTY or WinSCP client software, which may be causing conflicts with the OpenSSH server or the network connection.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Check and adjust OpenSSH server configuration

  1. Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator and navigate to the directory where the OpenSSH server is installed (usually C:\Program Files\OpenSSH\server).
  2. Step 2: Run the command 'sshd -T' to check the server's configuration. This will display a list of configured options, including any potential issues.
  3. Step 3: Adjust the configuration as needed to resolve any conflicts or issues. For example, you may need to modify the firewall rules or disable certain features that are interfering with the connection.

Disable and re-enable PuTTY or WinSCP client software

  1. Step 1: Close all instances of PuTTY or WinSCP.
  2. Step 2: Delete any existing configuration files or profiles that may be causing conflicts.
  3. Step 3: Reinstall or reconfigure the client software to ensure it is properly set up for SSH/SFTP connections.

✨ Wrapping Up

To resolve the 'Network error: Software caused connection abort' issue, first check and adjust the OpenSSH server configuration to ensure there are no conflicts or issues. If that doesn't work, try disabling and re-enabling the PuTTY or WinSCP client software. Additionally, consider testing FileZilla as a reliable alternative for SFTP connections, and investigate any potential firewall or network settings issues.

Did this fix your problem?

If not, try searching for specific error codes.

🔍 Search Error Database

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🛠️ Related Fixes

How to Fix: Pc crashes shortly after launching game (rainbow

Fix Pc crashes shortly after launching game (rainbow six siege). Compl

How to Fix: Installing an APK on a locked down phone

Installing an APK on a locked down phone: Try using a rooted device, e

How to Fix: New PC build- no signal and no clue

Fix New PC build- no signal and no clue. Complete troubleshooting guid