While telnetting you have a constant, direct connection to the server, and because you are going over the internet you can connect to any server in the world. Remote logins are efficient because they allow several people to simultaneously use one server from any computer connected to the Internet. Most people at Brandeis use Teraterm Pro to check their e-mail and to run programs on the mainframe. SSH stands for secure shell. It is a way of encrypting information that is passing between computers.
Encryption is a method of disguising data so that no outsiders can read it.
When using SSH, Teraterm Pro contacts the server and agrees on a method of encryption, after which all data sent is encrypted. In many ways the internet is like a large party-line. This is especially critical when you are logging in and providing your password. It is suggested that you use SSH even when telnetting completely within Brandeis. However, the installer program that ships with TeraTerm from its maker does not correctly install the appropriate shortcut in your Start menu.