No HyperTerminal to Configure Cisco Routers Connected Via a Local COM Port in Vista & Server 2008

Recently I had to connect routers / vpn devices via a local com port to upgrade BIOS and other configurations. They have Windows vista on all desktops and my Laptop has no serial port. So I decided to use old good HyperTerminal. I thought HyperTerminal is still under the Programs > Accessories > Communications menu. I failed to locate hypertrm.exe. From Microsoft support website:

HyperTerminal is no longer part of Windows. There are several options you can use to replace its functionality. If you previously used HyperTerminal to control serial devices, you can usually find a downloadable version of HyperTerminal on the Internet that is free for personal use.

Get Putty to replace vista hyperterminal

Download and use open source putty terminal software. You can grab putty here.

Start Putty

Double click on putty > Select Serial > Type COM1 and speed rate such as 19200:

(Fig. 01: Putty as replacement for HyperTerinal under Windows Vista)

Configure putty

You also need to setup other serial connection parameters by visiting category > serial menu on left side:

(Fig. 02: Configure putty serial communication options)
Finally, just hit open button:

(Fig. 03: Windows putty serial communication in action)

There you have it. 

 Or You will find a downloadable version of HyperTerminal on the Internet that is free for personal use.