If you work from home, you’ve 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.
Introducing 10 Top 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. So, are there any more secure solutions than VNC out there?
There are many free secure alternatives to VNC 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.
1. TeamViewer Remote – Fast, Secure Remote Access for Everyone
TeamViewer is a great example of the secure VNC 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.
2. Chrome Remote Desktop – Easy, Secure Control via Chrome
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 the security risks of Chrome Remote Desktop. If security is not your first priority, then there is nothing to be concerned about.
3. DWService – Free, Open-source Remote Access, Anywhere
DWService is an excellent VNC replacement 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.
4. AnyDesk – Fast, Low-latency Access, Anywhere
AnyDesk is known in the market as the most user-friendly alternative to VNC. 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.
5. TigerVNC – Open-source VNC with Secure Connections
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.
6. Zoho Assist – Simple Remote Support with Powerful Tools
Zoho Assist is a cloud-based VNC type software that lets you connect to and control devices like PCs, laptops, servers, and mobile devices over the internet. It runs through a web browser or a lightweight client, so you do not need complex installation like with traditional remote access tools. It’s designed to facilitate a business to provide better remote support and access by generating secure, on-demand connections. In addition to remote control, there are features for file transfer, recording sessions, screen sharing, and unattended access. User security relies on encryption and two-factor authentication to keep your sessions secure. If you are an organization looking to enhance online customer support and simplify remote management, Zoho Assist is one of the best you will find.
7. LogMeIn Resolve – Easy IT Support And Troubleshooting
LogMeIn Resolve, one of the best VNC alternatives in the market, is entirely cloud-based, so IT support teams can jump in without any complicated setup processes or on-site visits. LogMeIn Resolve has several features that help teams diagnose issues, transfer files, and guide users through step-by-step instructions in real time, thereby minimizing downtime and helping work to continue without major interruption. With strong encryption and authentication, protecting sensitive data happens in a timely manner. In short, if organizations are planning to modernize and keep users working better, LogMeIn plays to your strengths.
8. Splashtop – High-speed, Secure Remote Access
Splashtop is a VNC alternative optimized for speed. Streaming video, running applications, or sharing sound remotely feels natural, almost as if you are actually at the desk. Security remains high with encryption and authentication protecting every session. Splashtop is a combination of speed and protection for both business and personal use.
9. RemotePC – Secure Remote Access for Work and Play
RemotePC is an alternative to VNC for both work and personal use. You can log in to your office computer to complete a project, then jump to your personal setup at home. It comes with features like always-on access, file transfer, collaboration tools, easy set up, and encryption.
10. Dameware Remote Support – Quick Remote Support for IT Pros
Dameware Remote Support is a VNC alternative built for professionals. It is not simply a remote access tool but an admin-level tool to manage accounts, monitor systems, and troubleshoot issues directly. Speed is of the highest importance or priority regardless of a remote or local session. For teams that need to reduce downtime and deliver fast support, Dameware is a powerful delivery channel.
Linux VNC Alternatives
| Tool | Notes |
| TigerVNC | A VNC server that works well on Linux |
| DWService | Can work across multiple platforms, but commonly used on Linux |
| AnyDesk | Supports Linux and other platforms, but often used in Linux environments |
| SolarWinds DameWare Remote Support | Primarily used for Windows, but supports Linux remotely |
VNC Alternatives for Windows
| Tool | Notes |
| TeamViewer Remote | A cross-platform solution, popular for remote access on Windows |
| Chrome Remote Desktop | Works across multiple platforms, often used for Windows remote access |
| Zoho Assist | A cloud-based tool that works on Windows (and Linux) for remote support |
| LogMeIn Resolve | Remote access primarily used for Windows environments |
| Splashtop | Supports Windows, Mac, and Linux environments for remote access |
| RemotePC | Primarily for Windows users, but also supports Linux and other platforms |
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 RDP vs VNC 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
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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.
