rlogin - Remote Login

What is rlogin?

rlogin (remote login) is a legacy network protocol used to log into another Unix-based system over a network. It allows users to access remote systems and execute commands as if they were logged in locally.

Why is rlogin useful?

  • Enables remote shell access to Unix systems.

  • Useful for basic remote administration and file operations.

  • Simple and lightweight for trusted, internal networks.

  • One of the earliest remote terminal protocols before SSH became common.

How it works?

  • The client initiates a TCP connection to the remote rlogin server.

  • The user is authenticated, often using .rhosts or similar mechanisms.

  • Once authenticated, the user gets a terminal session to the remote host.

  • Data is transmitted in plaintext, including login credentials.

Where is rlogin used?

  • Historically used in Unix-based networks for remote administration.

  • Still found in legacy systems or educational environments.

  • Rare in modern environments due to security concerns.

Topics in this section,

  • In this section, you are going to learn

  • Terminology

  • Version Info

  • rfc details

  • setup

  • setup

  • packet details

  • usecases

  • features

  • Reference links