What would you do if you needed to access a computer that wasn’t nearby? Technology then enters the picture. A computer or server can be accessed remotely using a variety of methods, including software and protocols. You can use RDP and VNC as two of these remote access methods. What distinguishes VNC from RDP is the important query. To help you better understand Remote Desktop Protocol and Virtual Network Computing and to make it simple for you to choose the one that best meets your remote access needs, we’ll compare VNC and RDP in this post.
Describe RDP.
The well-known Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) was created by Microsoft and allows for remote graphical control of another computer or server. RDP is a Windows feature, although it also functions with Linux and Mac, two other popular operating systems. You can read our other articles to learn more about RDP and topics related to it as well as to learn everything there is to know about this remote desktop protocol. But in this article, we’ll compare VNC and RDP to make it easier for you to decide which is ideal for your needs.
Describe VNC.
RFB is a protocol that is used by the desktop sharing system known as Virtual Network Computing (VNC). When you utilise VNC, you can remotely control a computer while the main user can observe and participate. VNC is a flexible but less effective option because it is pixel-based, which means it scarcely interacts with the underlying graphic layout. Technical support and instructional objectives are the two main uses of VNC. You can connect to a client’s computer via VNC, for instance, if you work as a technical customer service representative and you want to assist them in installing software. As you install the software yourself, you will have access to their desktop and can walk them through the process step-by-step.As you instal the software yourself, you will have access to their desktop and can walk them through the process step-by-step. VNC works across all platforms. Additionally, you can share your desktop between many computers by using a variety of cross-platform applications, such as TightVNC and RealVNC. In light of this introduction, let’s discuss the VNC vs. RDP contrast.
What Differs RDP and VNC, Specifically?
Some people may get the conclusion that RDP is superior to VNC or vice versa while analysing the VNC vs. RDP comparison. This is untrue, though, as these solutions have a variety of applications, making them a useful substitute depending on the situation. Here, we’ll discuss a few key aspects of the RDP vs. VNC comparison to help you better understand their key distinctions.
Functionality of RDP vs. VNC
VNC is slower than RDP because it uses a pixel-based protocol, as was mentioned before. As a result, data is conveyed across the network via what is basically an image exchange. Regarding the VNC vs. RDP contrast, it is important to note that this also makes cross-platform sharing easier. However, RDP is much more effective because it is involved in the underlying graphic layout and the data is more tightly compressed. You can use RDP to share the resources of a single computer among distant users through multiple profiles since it logs into the computer and establishes an actual desktop session.
Using RDP vs. VNC
When comparing the use cases of VNC and RDP, it becomes clear that VNC is more frequently utilised as a screen-sharing platform that enables remote computers to take over. Because everyone uses the same screen, VNC is a great choice for remote customer assistance and educational demonstrations. Students can be shown the processes by the mentor, or the client can demonstrate the support technician their issue.
RDP, on the other hand, is a resource-sharing platform rather than a screen-sharing one. A single user connects from one device, such as a computer or server, to another. The fact that they have different purposes should be taken into consideration while contrasting VNC with RDP.
Performance of VNC vs. RDP
With the aid of RDP, you may virtually connect to and use any Windows machine, regardless of where it is in the real world. RDP is used to connect to VPS servers so that several users can access the same physical server and use it separately. It is quick and simple to use. In contrast, VNC effectively allows two or more users to share a single desktop. Comparing VNC vs RDP in terms of speed reveals that VNC can perform with a lot more errors or higher latency, especially when there are more than two accounts involved.
Platforms Supported for RDP vs. VNC
Windows machines ship with RDP pre-installed because it is a Windows original. It only functions on Windows-based machines on the server-side as well. However, you can employ client-side programmes that enable RDP on operating systems including Linux, Mac, iOS, and Android.
VNC is cross-platform compatible and independent of platform. There are VNC apps available for several operating systems, and there are no restrictions on connecting to various computers on various platforms running various operating systems utilising them.
RDP vs. VNC: Security Concerns
It is crucial to contrast VNC and RDP from the standpoint of security because it plays a big role in our daily lives. RDP uses an encrypted channel for communication, and the encryption techniques get better with each upgrade. Be aware that previous versions of RDP are susceptible to a “man-in-the-middle” attack, which allows the attacker to view your session without your knowledge. On Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows Server 2003/2008/2012/2016/2019/2022, RDP can be used safely through SSL/TLS.
An SSH tunnel can be used with VNC, but not all VNC software supports this functionality. Additionally, it grants the remote user full access, which might be problematic if you have sensitive data on your computer or if the remote user is not someone you completely know and trust.
This section compares and contrasts VNC and RDP, highlighting five key differences that you should be aware of before choosing one over the other. When should I use VNC and when should I use RDP, you might be asking.
When ought I to use VNC and when ought I to use RDP?
Whenever to Use RDP:
- sharing the resources of a single computer with other users (like a real server).
- remote computer access without having to share a screen.
- when you need support for several monitors.
Whenever to Use VNC:
- Support services that require both the user and the technician to have access to the computer.
- When a teacher wants to demonstrate the procedures to a pupil, it is for educational purposes.
- whenever the server runs on a platform other than Windows.
We now have a better understanding of how VNC and RDP compare and when to use each. If you want to recall the differences between VNC and RDP fast, you can also utilise our short comparison table.
Quick comparison between RDP and VNC
| SPEED | Main Use Case | Can run on different OS | Security channel | |
| RDP | Fast | platform for exchanging resources | Android, Linux, Windows, and macOS | SSL/TLS |
| VNC | Slow | platform for sharing screens | Windows, Linux, and macOS | SSH tunnel |
In addition to contrasting RDP and VNC, take note that these two are the best options for their needs. However, we will also present several additional well-liked and current options for you to consider.
What Alternatives Exist to RDP and VNC?
Instead of using VNC and RDP, you might wish to think about the following alternatives:
TeamViewer
A well-known remote access programme is called TeamViewer; as the name suggests, it offers a complete team communication solution, including computer connection and desktop sharing. It is also free and compatible with all widely used systems.
NoMachine
You might also wish to think about NoMachine, a different free option that connects via NX technology. It is available on all widely used platforms.
AnyDesk
Another well-known and widely available solution for cross-platform remote computer access is AnyDesk. It is a good idea to read our post on comparing AnyDesk vs. RDP and AnyDesk vs. TeamViewer from many angles so that it can assist you in selecting the best option depending on your needs.
Recap:Comparison between VNC and RDP in 2022
RDP and VNC are both well-known and exceptional systems that you can utilise for a variety of use cases. This post compared VNC vs RDP mostly in an effort to point you in the correct path when selecting the best remote access method. It all depends on why you require remote access. You can also utilise our RDP Server solutions to deliver dependable, quick, and consistent remote connections with less latency. My article on the top RDP providers contains comprehensive information that you may find there. Obtain the most amazing materials for as little as $7.95 by going ahead.
FAQ
What distinguishes RDP from VNC in particular?
RDP and VNC diverge on a number of fronts. The primary distinction between RDP and VNC is that the former establishes virtual desktop sessions, whereas the latter just shows the physical display of what the remote user sees.
XRDP: Is it quicker than VNC?
When comparing the speed of XRDP with VNC, it is important to keep in mind that the major objective of XRDP is resource sharing, not screen sharing, and as a result, it gives you a much faster and more effective means to access a remote computer.
Which one of XRDP and VNC should I use?
Users may find XRDP and VNC to be quite beneficial. However, VNC has some benefits over XRDP, including its usability and the constancy of VNC sessions, which increases demand for it (especially between newbie users).
Describe XRDP.
XRDP is an alternative to Microsoft Windows’ Remote Desktop Protocol that is open-source and cost-free (like Linux and its distributions). You can connect remotely to your Linux server from a Windows computer using XRDP.
Can Linux users utilise RDP?
Yes. RDP was initially created for Windows by Microsoft. However, because to its long-term popularity, it is now accessible on Linux, Mac, iOS, and even Android.
Which is superior between VNC and Remote Desktop?
VNC is generally recognised to be slower and less functional than Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). However, depending on the user and the intended usage, RDP or VNC may both be the best choice. See the part on the aforementioned article titled “When Should I Use RDP and When Should I Use VNC?” for further details on the specific applications of RDP and VNC.
Which is safer between VNC and Remote Desktop?
Even while both of these services offer customers a level of security that is acceptable, RDP is more potent and resistant to outside threats than VNC. This is as a result of RDP sessions’ mysterious encryption.
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