I hate being trapped on a network, especially since we all know that bits like to roam free.

I mean no network disrespect, and, of course, I mean no malice. I have my various servers to tend, resources to query, and just hate being defeated.

The network I'm on during my day job is protected from the Internet by a rather restrictive proxy server. Generally no network activity is available through the firewall other than through the proxy server, and that allows only HTTP and HTTPS. I've come to find this in a lot of places, and have made concessions on my own server, putting bits and tools that allow me to work through HTTPS for the most part. However, the network in question is even more restrictive than most, even blocking widely accepted helpful technology sites (one of my e-mails couldn't get images from apple.com...how crazy is that?).

I'm quite comfortable with SSH. Using tunnels and SSH file systems is no problem, usually. Of course, this requires that you can get through the network using an SSH client.

I was certain that once upon a time I'd encountered an article describing some techniques for using SSH through a proxy server. This seems almost contrary to how a proxy server might work, especially given the stateless manner of the web, for which most proxy servers are configured. Most of the articles related to SSH and proxy servers were how to configure the proxy server. One led me down the right path. A path, unfortunately, that I didn't think I'd be able to utilize as I couldn't get to the required source.

Fortunately, after a second or two, I thought to check Cygwin and see if the software was in the repository. Low and behold, it was there! Seconds later, I had the software added to the installation, and after a few missteps, I was able to SSH through the proxy server to my Solaris server at home! I reconnected and found that, sure enough, I could even tunnel to my server's proxy server, and therein get to the friendly and helpful sites.

For those with whom I work who may stumble upon this, rest assured, the proxy server will protect me and the client network from evil sites, as I used to use the site to protect the kids (when they were still here) from malicious sites by keeping the black list fairly up to date.

After a few more moments checking, I found that the best SSH client for Windows, PuTTY, has proxy settings conveniently inside the configuration for a connection. I configured a link to my server so I can just double-click and connect. I still need to sign-in, so Monday I'll set up a key pair for the work machine.

SSH hits the spot!