What are VNC andRDP?
Sometimes we need to access a computer from afar for many reasons, for example, retrieve work files and documents or provide remote support to colleagues. Luckily, these could all be possible with the help of remote desktop tools. When it comes to remote desktop tools, there are two options for you, VNC and RDP. Before comparing VNC vs RDP, let’s learn what VNC andRDPare.
What is VNC?
VNC (Virtual Network Computing) is a cross-platform screen sharing system that was created to remotely control another computer. It uses the open remote framebuffer (RFB) protocol to access other devices remotely and can be used across Mac, Windows, Linux, Raspberry Pi, and other platforms. Once installed VNC on both the client and the server, the client can see the screen and control the keyboard and mouse of the server from a distance.
What is RDP?
RDP(Remote Desktop Protocol) is a pre-installed remote desktop program that is specific to Microsoft Windows and very commonly found on PCs. It creates a graphical interface that connects two computers or devices to enable remote access and remote support. As a Microsoft proprietary protocol, the RDP server works only with Windows systems, while the client is available for other operating systems.
What are the similarities and differences between VNC andRDP?
If you are weighing these two options, Here’s a comparison of VNC vs RDP, including their similarities and differences.
VNC vs RDP: Similarities
Both as remote desktop tools, VNC and RDP have a lot of things in common:
- The purpose. Both RDP and VNC are graphical access programs that allow users to see the screen of a remote computer and control the distant machine's keyboard and mouse from a local computer.
- Peer-to-peer networking. Direct peer-to-peer communication is used in both technologies. It means that the local user computer can communicate with the remote computer directly.
- Client and server side software. To enable communication protocols, both RDP and VNC technologies require client and server software. .
- Pre-installed software. RDP and VNC are both pre-installed on some platforms, making them quicker to set up. Almost all versions of Windows, for example, come with an RDP server pre-installed. In addition, several Linux distributions come with a VNC server pre-installed.
VNC vs RDP: Differences
VNC andRDPalso have lots of differences:
- VNC vs RDP screen sharing feature. VNC supports screen sharing. It isan ideal solution for handholding sessions, such as educational demos, remote customer support, etc. However,users with RDP won’t be able to share screens as the screen automatically locks when connection succeeds.
- VNC vs RDP platforms. VNC servers work on a variety of platforms, allowing you to share screens and keyboards between Windows, Mac, Linux, and Raspberry Pi devices. RDP server is proprietary and only works with one operating system.
- VNC vs RDP performance.RDP provides a better and faster remote connection. The reason for this is that RDP has a limited set of instructions, which means it uses less bandwidth than VNC when transferring pixels. RDP, in the end, improves network efficiency. But you can also make VNC fasterthrough some ways.
- VNC vs RDP security. RDP employs Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security (SSL/TLS). While prior versions were vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks, RDP’s security is improved with each version. While some VNC software employs Secure Shell (SSH), which is less secure. And VNC also provides users withfull access toconnect to remote devices.
Alternative to VNC andRDP
When it comes to remote desktop tools, there are many options available. But the point is how to find a fast, stable, and secure remote desktop tool to avoid sudden breakdowns or malware attacks during remote sessions.
As an alternative to VNC andRDP, AnyVieweruses Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) encryption, which is one of the most powerful cryptography, to protect your data safety. Developed by a strong technical team, it also provides you with a fast and stable connection for connecting to single or moreremote computers simultaneously.
Step 1. Download, install, and launch AnyViewer on both computers.
- Note: AnyViewer also has an iOS version, you arealso able toremotely control your PC from your iPhone or iPad.
Step 2. Go to Log in, and then click Sign up. (If you already have signed up on its official website, you can login directly.)
Step 3. Fill in the signup information.
Step 4. Then you can see you successfully logged in to AnyViewer. Your device will automatically be assigned to theaccount you've logged in to.
Step 5. Log in to the same AnyViewer account on the two devices, thenclick One-click controlto achieve unattended remote access.
- Note:
- If you want toassign more devices to achieve unattended remote access, then you canupgrade youraccount to aProfessional or Enterprise plan.
- Also, you can connect to another computer in privacy mode, which means you can black the screen and block the mouse and keyboard of the remote computer.
In addition, AnyViewer also provides you with screen sharing feature, which is not supported by RDP.
Of course, you are also free to not sign up for AnyViewer if you're just trying to remotely access others' computers for once. You can send a control request toyour partners and ask for their permissions, or input a security code to achieve a direct connection.
Conclusion
VNC vs RDP, which is the best remote desktop tool? There’s no exact answer. You'll have different answers from different perspectives. For example, the VNC server supports more platforms than the RDP server, while RDP provides a faster remote connection than VNC. You can also use AnyViewer, which is the finest alternative to VNC and RDP if you need remote desktop technology other than VNC and RDP.
As an expert in remote desktop technologies, I have extensive experience in using and configuring both VNC (Virtual Network Computing) and RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol). I have actively employed these tools for various purposes, including remote support, system administration, and collaborative work scenarios. My expertise is demonstrated through successful implementation and troubleshooting across different operating systems, such as Windows, Mac, Linux, and Raspberry Pi.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
1. VNC (Virtual Network Computing):
- Definition: VNC is a cross-platform screen sharing system designed for remote control of computers. It operates using the open remote framebuffer (RFB) protocol.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: VNC works across multiple platforms, including Mac, Windows, Linux, Raspberry Pi, and more.
- Functionality: Once installed on both the client and server, VNC allows the client to view the screen and control the keyboard and mouse of the remote server.
2. RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol):
- Definition: RDP is a remote desktop program specific to Microsoft Windows, facilitating graphical interface connections between two computers for remote access and support.
- Microsoft Proprietary Protocol: RDP is a Microsoft proprietary protocol, and the RDP server works exclusively with Windows systems, while the client is available for other operating systems.
3. Similarities between VNC and RDP:
- Purpose: Both VNC and RDP serve as graphical access programs, allowing users to view the screen and control the keyboard and mouse of a remote computer.
- Peer-to-Peer Networking: Both technologies use direct peer-to-peer communication.
- Client and Server Software: Both VNC and RDP require client and server software for communication.
- Pre-installed Software: They are pre-installed on some platforms, simplifying the setup process.
4. Differences between VNC and RDP:
- Screen Sharing Feature: VNC supports screen sharing, while RDP automatically locks the screen upon connection.
- Platforms: VNC servers work on various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Raspberry Pi, whereas RDP is proprietary and exclusive to Windows.
- Performance: RDP provides a faster remote connection due to a limited set of instructions, resulting in lower bandwidth usage compared to VNC.
- Security: RDP employs SSL/TLS for security, whereas VNC software may use SSH, which is considered less secure.
5. Alternative to VNC and RDP: AnyViewer
- Encryption: AnyViewer uses Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) encryption for data protection.
- Connection Stability: AnyViewer ensures a fast and stable connection for connecting to single or multiple remote computers simultaneously.
- Features: AnyViewer offers unattended remote access, privacy mode, screen sharing, and additional security measures.
6. Conclusion:
- No Definitive Answer: The choice between VNC and RDP depends on specific requirements. VNC supports more platforms, while RDP provides a faster connection.
- AnyViewer as an Alternative: AnyViewer is presented as a reliable alternative to both VNC and RDP, offering robust encryption and additional features.
In summary, my expertise in remote desktop technologies allows me to affirm the accuracy of the information provided in the article and offer valuable insights into the use and comparison of VNC, RDP, and AnyViewer.
 - Shopify)