SSH Tunneling

Connect through firewalls using an encrypted tunnel

SSH tunneling can help you connect to 3Kingdoms if you're behind a corporate firewall that blocks normal telnet access. By creating an encrypted tunnel through an SSH connection, you can often bypass these restrictions.

This guide walks you through setting up PuTTY (a small, powerful, and popular connection program) to create an SSH tunnel that routes your MUD connection through an intermediate server.

What You'll Need

SSH Server Access

You'll need access to an SSH server to use as a "leap pad." This could be a personal server, a friend's server, or a shell account. Ask around on the MUD, someone may be able to help.

PuTTY

Download PuTTY (version 0.59 or greater) from putty.org. It's a tiny, portable program with no installation required, just run the executable.

MUD Client

Your preferred MUD client (or even basic telnet). Once the tunnel is set up, you'll connect through it using your normal client.

Setting Up PuTTY

1

Configure the Session

Open PuTTY and configure the following settings in the Session category:

  • Host Name: The address of your SSH "leap pad" server
  • Port: 22
  • Connection type: SSH
2

Configure the Tunnel

Navigate to Connection → SSH → Tunnels in the left panel. This is where you set up the port forwarding that routes your connection through the tunnel.

  • Source port: 23
  • Destination: 3k.org:3000
  • Make sure Local is selected
  • Click Add - you should see "L23 3k.org:3000" appear in the list
3

Save Your Session

Go back to Session, enter a name in "Saved Sessions" (like "3K Tunnel"), and click Save. This way you won't have to reconfigure everything each time.

4

Connect Through the Tunnel

Click Open in PuTTY to connect to your SSH server. Log in with your credentials. Keep this window open - it maintains your tunnel.

Now, in your MUD client, instead of connecting to 3k.org:3000, connect to:

localhost:23

Your connection will be routed through the SSH tunnel to 3Kingdoms!

Important Notes

Keep PuTTY Running

You must keep PuTTY connected to maintain the tunnel. If you close it, your MUD client will lose its connection path.

SSH Encryption

Your data is encrypted through the tunnel, so network administrators cannot see the content of your connection - only that encrypted traffic is flowing.

Low Bandwidth

Text-based MUDs like 3Kingdoms use very little bandwidth, making them ideal for tunneled connections that might otherwise attract attention.

Workplace Considerations

If you're using this at work, keep these points in mind:

  • IT staff can see the SSH server you're connected to
  • They can see data streaming across the tunnel if they're monitoring
  • They cannot examine the content due to SSH encryption
  • Be prepared to explain it as a technical resource or discussion forum if asked
  • Don't abuse it - moderate usage is less likely to raise questions

Disclaimer: Always follow your workplace's acceptable use policies. This guide is provided for educational purposes.

Ready to Connect?

Once your tunnel is set up, you're ready to adventure in the realms!

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