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Software that lets a user interact with a computer from any other computer

Software that lets a user interact with a computer from any other computer

Vote: (39 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Realvnc

Version: 5.0.0

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(39 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Realvnc

5.0.0

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • Very fast connections and low latency
  • Program is secured through several means
  • Great resource for IT admins and freelancers

Cons

  • Security flaws are regularly found (but patched fast)
  • Must install application on both machines to use

VNC is a utility that enables remote desktop viewing and access.

VNC is free and open-source and is supported across all major operating systems. The idea behind it is simple: allow remote desktop viewing and access. Because of its low latency (or "lag"), it's used in many popular products.

Although the user interface is dated, its security is not. As access to the program means full access to your computer, the software authors regularly release patches to ensure that attackers cannot gain access to your computer.

The program is quite simple to use. First, both the computer that wishes to view another computer (the "client") and the computer that needs to be viewed (the "server") must have VNC installed on them. After that, you'll need the password and IP address of the computer you wish to access. Once you have that information, it's as easy as copying and pasting it into the VNC window and then letting VNC work out a connection.

Once you connect your computer with the server, you'll be able to see its entire desktop and access any files or programs on the machine. Once connected, VNC provides a large suite of functionality. That means that you can use either your own keyboard or a virtual keyboard on the remote computer. You can also chat between the two computers, making it great for providing IT help. Remote printing from the server computer is also now supported! In addition to using standard cryptography and passwords, VNC also now has a feature that shows a small phrase that is decrypted by a "signature" that is unique to a machine. This means that someone who somehow manages to connect without authorization will be caught by VNC, and the owner of the computer will be warned that their VNC credentials may have been compromised.

Another common use of VNC is for freelancers on the go. You can install it on your desktop at home and then access it from anywhere with an Internet connection! That means you can be productive at a hotel, library, or from almost any device, as long as you have Internet access.

In short, VNC is an excellent tool for anyone requiring remote access. It's been around a long time and is open source, so it's one of the most secure options out there. It also uses caching and other optimization methods that allow for super fast connections and minimal lag.

Pros

  • Very fast connections and low latency
  • Program is secured through several means
  • Great resource for IT admins and freelancers

Cons

  • Security flaws are regularly found (but patched fast)
  • Must install application on both machines to use