RSH/PSEXEC Secure Alternative

[dblaze1]

Is anyone using a program similar to RSH/PSEXEC that provides a secure connection between machines?  We currently use both but need a secure version I can execute using RunShell or similar.  OpenSSH, Cygwin appear to be possibilities but I'd like feedback.

Our particular use is that we use Pervasive Data Integrator as an ETL engine that is licensed on one machine.  The Winbatch programs execute the Pervasive engine using RunShell("rsh","commandline") or RunShell("psexec","command") but I need a secure alternative.

Thanks,
Doug