Remote Desktop Protocol or VNC — Are They the Same Thing?
You can remotely control a computer using an RDP or a VNC. Remote Desktop Protocol and Virtual Network Computing solutions allow you to virtually and remotely access a desktop that is not in the exact location of your own computer. For example, you can connect to your office computer from your laptop at home.
RDP and VNC are so similar that sometimes the barrier between them is unclear. Are they the same thing? They can be. But, there are major differences in the RDP vs. VNC comparison that affect their use cases. You need to know how different and similar RDP and VNC are in order to choose the right one for your business.
Are RDP and VNC the Same Thing?
So, RDP and VNC both connect you to a remote desktop. They are both used for working remotely and transferring files between two computers. They both allow communication between the two clients. Do these similarities mean they are the same thing? If we consider the concept of remote connection, yes. But that’s where the similarities end. They are different in how they function and what they are used for.
What Are Remote Desktop Protocol and VNC?
Let me give you more details on the RDP vs. VNC comparison. A Remote Desktop Protocol is a remote connection solution developed by Microsoft in 2006. It is usually used on Windows operating systems. It’s actually a built-in feature of theWindows OS. But that doesn’t mean you can’t use it on other operating systems like Linux and MAC.
To use RDP, you need to install the client software on your computer and the server software on the computer you want to connect to remotely. After running the client software, you have to request access to the remote computer. After connection, you will have a graphical interface of the remote computer’s desktop. You can use RDP to connect to any computer or server.
A Virtual Network Computing solution is another type of remote connection software that allows you to see a graphic interface of a remote computer. When you connect to a computer via VNC, not only will you have access to the remote desktop, but also the person on the remote computer can see the changes you are making.
VNC solutions are great for IT support and troubleshooting. They can also be used for online meetings and file sharing between several users.
What Are the Differences Between RDP and VNC?
There are 5 key differences in the RDP vs. VNC comparison: Speed, functionality, accessibility, supported operating systems, and security. Considering these 5 factors will help you decide which solution is the right choice for your remote connection needs. To make it even more precise, I will walk you through RDP and VNC use cases.
- Functionality
VNC is a pixel-based screen-sharing solution. This means that a VNC will transfer the graphic interface of your remote computer pixel-by-pixel. On the other hand, RDP is an object-based sharing system. It works by transferring encrypted data in blocks and transmitting the server monitor.
To say simply, RDP works by directly logging you into the remote computer or server. VNC connects you to the remote computer itself. You will share your desktop, mouse, and keyboard with the remote computer owner and other users in the same session.
- Speed and Performance
VNC is a screen-sharing solution. RDP is a resource-sharing solution, meaning that the screen is not the only shared feature. This makes RDP a much faster remote desktop solution. RDP is also a much more suitable solution for remotely connecting to a VPS (virtual private server).
Due to the way RDP works, it uses less bandwidth and is more network-efficient than VNC. If you are looking for a remote desktop connection system that is fast and efficient in the RDP vs. VNC comparison, RDP is the right solution for you.
- Accessibility
Since VPS is a screen-sharing solution, multiple users can be on the same connection. Let’s say you need your boss and coworkers to remotely connect to your computer for a presentation. Everyone in the session will have access to your computer while also seeing everything you are doing on your desktop.
RDP does not allow concurrent logins. Think of it this way, when you log into your laptop, you are one user using the resources. No other user can log into the same OS user you are working with. However, RDP allows different users to use the same server and resources without bothering each other.
- Supported Operating Systems
RDP was initially produced by Microsoft for Windows users. But now, everyone can use RDP on operating systems like MAC, Linux, Windows, as well as iOS and Android. VNC has always been a platform-independent solution. Users have the same experience while using a VNC regardless of the operating system they are using.
- Security
RDP used to be prone to security breaches and man-in-the-middle attacks, but now, it supports SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security). RDP security also improves with each update. VNC, on the other hand, supports SSH (Secure Shell) but not all VNC companies implement it. You also have to consider the risk of multiple users’ activity in the same VNC session. It is fair to say that VNC is not as secure as RDP.
RDP vs. VNC — Use Cases
Now that you know the RDP vs. VNC differences and similarities, you have an overall idea of which solution is better for you. Check these use cases out to see which category you fit in and which remote desktop solution is best for your computing needs:
RDP Use Cases:
- If you need to connect to a VPS.
- If you need to remotely share server/computer resources with one or multiple users.
- If you need to access a computer without having to share the screen.
- If you need multi-screen support.
VNC Use Cases:
- If the remote computer’s user still needs access to the computer.
- If you need to share the screen for troubleshooting or educational matters.
- If you need cross-platform access.
Why Choose RDP over VNC for Your Remote Access Needs
Okay, let me give you a straightforward list of facts why you need to choose RDP in the RDP vs. VNC comparison:
- RDP is faster and more efficient than VNC.
- RDP is more secure than VNC, especially if you handle sensitive data on your remote access connection.
- You can use RDP to access any computer or server, like virtual private servers.
- With RDP, not only will you have a graphic interface of your remote server, but you can also use its resources.
- RDP has been a trusted and popular remote access solution over the years.
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RDP — The Porsche of Remote Access Solutions
Sure, VNC is a great screen-sharing solution. But honestly, that’s all that it is. You can use RDP for working remotely and transferring sensitive files without worrying that some other user might take advantage of your remote connection. RDP is, indeed, the Porsche of remote access solutions.