What are VNC Alternatives?|5 best remote access solutions 2022

If you work from home, you probably heard the terms Remote Desktop Protocol and Virtual Network Computing. A VNC is software that allows you to connect to another computer remotely. You can communicate with the remote device owner, and they can see your actions on their desktop. There are dozens of companies providing VNC solutions. In this blog post, I want to talk to you about your options and VNC alternatives out there. 

Before getting to our list, I want to tell you a little bit about what VNC is and why you should use it. I will also include a comparison between VNC and RDP so you have a better understanding of how these remote desktop connection solutions work. Without further ado, let’s get to business!

What is VNC?

VNC, short for Virtual Network Computing, is a cross-platform screen-sharing software that allows a user to remotely access and control another user’s computer. With a VNC, you can access someone’s screen, mouse, and keyboard from a distance, and they will be able to see every action you make on their system. Like RDP, VNC works as a client/server system. The server software is installed on the device that will be controlled, while the client (or viewer) software will be installed on the device in control. VNC is a great solution for businesses like software customer support. It can even be used to show a friend how to install something on their device when you are far away. As I mentioned earlier, VNC is a cross-platform solution. You can run it on Windows, Linux, Mac, and other popular operating systems.

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How are VNC and RDP Compared to Each Other?

Virtual Network Computing is a lot similar in concept to Remote Desktop Protocol but very different in performance. A VNC is the graphical display of a desktop. It is pixel-based, showing the desktop of a device to another user like a screen-recording. But in terms of control and access, RDP is a more useful tool. It depends a lot on what you need a remote desktop connection solution for. If you need to connect to a customer’s device to troubleshoot a software, go with VNC. If you need to connect to your work computer from your laptop at home, go for RDP.

With all that being said, I made a bullet point list of VNC vs. RDP similarities and differences:

✳️VNC and RDP Similarities

• They both provide access to remote devices.
• They both have a server/client system.
• They both use a peer-to-peer connection. 
• They both use software to manage users and secure access.

🚫VNC and RDP Differences

• RDP is far more secure than VNC.
• RDP has limited platform accessibility, but VNC works cross-platform.
• RDP can be faster than VNC
• RDP connects to a shared server, but VNC connects directly to a computer.
• RDP cannot be used if you need a remote desktop solution across multiple devices.

5 Best VNC Alternatives 

VNC was created in the late 90s by the same team that established RealVNC later in 2005. First, let’s learn a bit more about RealVNC. This VNC software has a control panel (RealVNC server), a client (Virtual Network viewer), and a remote connection software (Remote Access Manager). RealVNC has the capability that allows you to see your screen live from an internet browser on your desktop. The software is also very effective in transferring data between the server and client. 

We can say that RealVNC is the best VNC solution in the market. But, the solution is not affordable. There are many free VNC alternatives to consider working with when you need a VNC. So, I made a list of some free and effective VNC alternatives for you to choose from.

TeamViewer

TeamViewer is a great example of the RealVNC alternative. The software is a free solution that establishes a connection within seconds and works so smoothly that you don’t actually feel like there is a distance between your device and your remotely accessed device. TeamViewer is always up-to-date. New features like webcam access, VoIP, and application selection give you and your partner user a great experience over the connection. Remote support, remote access, and online meetings are some reasons for using TeamViewer.

Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop is fast, free, and simple. Well, it’s a Google product. You can access your screen on your PC, phone, or tablet. You can access your screen yourself or give permission to access it to someone else. This means that any user can be both the client and the server. Setting up Chrome Remote Desktop is very easy, and you can get the app from the Google Store. In spite of all these magnificent features, you should also consider security risks of chrome remote desktop. If security is not your first priority, then there is nothing to be concerned about.

DWService

DWService is an excellent VNC alternative for Linux users. The solution runs on any internet browser. If you need to access your computer, all you have to do is install the DWAgent on your computer and then run the web browser on any device connected to the DWService website. This gives you instant access to your computer. You can securely share data on your devices through applications with any unregistered devices as well. For example, if you want to share photos on your computer with your friends, you can use DWService without needing to upload the photos to any cloud-based application.

AnyDesk

AnyDesk is known in the market as the most user-friendly VNC alternative. Its smooth and comfortable design and flow make it a competitive alternative in the VNC market. With AnyDesk, you can access and transfer data between devices without having to entrust your data to any cloud service. One thing that makes AnyDesk efficient is that both the client and server users run the same software. You can customize toolbars and change screen resolutions and many more options with AnyDesk.

TigerVNC

If you are a remote graphic artist, TigerVNC is right up your alley. TigerVNC is a cross-platform, client/server software designed to work with highly graphical applications. It has the performance required to run video and 3D applications. TigerVNC is a suitable VNC alternative for advanced authentication methods and TLS encryption.

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To Recap

VNC is a great screen-sharing solution for basic remote access needs. It can help you with your personal needs, like sharing a file with your friend or installing an app on your mom’s laptop, all without leaving your desk. It can also help your customers with their confusion or questions about your software. This blog will help you better understand what VNC is and how it differs from RDP. I also introduced RealVNC and some of the greatest free RealVNC alternatives. 

If your remote desktop needs are further than troubleshooting and file sharing, you can go for an RDP. with a Remote Desktop Protocol, you can connect to your devices and work with them on an administrative level. You can also access shared, dedicated, and virtual private servers. At Cloudzy, we offer the best RDP solutions. We offer four affordable plans with 14 server locations. Get the most reliable performance with the minimum hardware requirements and a 24/7 support system, all with Cloudzy RDP plans!

FAQ

What are the top RealVNC alternatives?

TeamViewer and AnyDesk are the common RealVNC alternatives.

What kind of people use RealVNC?

Mostly, IT support systems and mid-sized companies.

Can I access a VPS with a VNC?

You can but your connection will not be secure. It is recommended to use an RDP to connect to a VPS.

Are VNC softwares hard to use?

VNC softwares are user-friendly since they are targeted at anyone with remote connection needs. You do not need professional technical knowledge to use them.