What would you do if you needed to access a computer that is not physically accessible? That’s where technology comes in. A computer or server can be accessed remotely through various software and protocols. You may use RDP and VNC as two of these remote access methods. What differentiates VNC from RDP is the important query. In this post, we will mainly compare RDP vs VNC so that you can better understand Remote Desktop Protocol and Virtual Network Computing and choose the one best suited for your remote access needs.
Table of Contents
What is RDP?
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a well-known Microsoft protocol that allows you to have remote graphical control over another computer or server. RDP is a Windows feature, although it works with other major operating systems such as Linux and Mac. In this article, we’ll compare VNC and RDP to make it easier for you to decide which is ideal for your needs.
What is VNC?
Virtual Network Computing (VNC) is a desktop-sharing solution that uses the RFB protocol. When you use VNC, you may remotely operate a computer while the main user can observe and participate. VNC is a flexible but less effective option since it is pixel-based, so it hardly interacts with the underlying graphic layout. VNC is mainly used for technical help and teaching. You can connect to a client’s computer using VNC, for example, if you work as a technical customer service representative and want to assist them in installing software. As you install the program, you will have access to their desktop and can walk them through the process step-by-step. VNC works across all platforms.
Explain The Differences Between RDP and VNC
When comparing VNC vs RDP, some individuals may decide that RDP is better than VNC or vice versa. However, this is not the case because various solutions have diverse use cases, making them useful options in specific instances. Here, we’ll discuss a few key aspects of the RDP vs. VNC comparison to help you better understand their key distinctions.
Functionality: RDP vs VNC
Because VNC is a pixel-based protocol, data is sent over the network in an image exchange, making VNC slower than RDP. Regarding the VNC vs. RDP contrast, it is important to note that this also makes cross-platform sharing easier. However, RDP is considerably more effective since it is engaged in the basic graphic layout and the data is more tightly compressed. You may use RDP to distribute the resources of a single computer among remote users through multiple profiles since it logs into the machine and establishes a real desktop session.
Use Cases: RDP vs VNC
When comparing VNC vs RDP in terms of use cases, VNC is a screen-sharing platform that allows the remote computer to assume control. Because everyone uses the same screen, VNC is a great choice for remote customer support and instructional demonstrations. The mentor can show students the processes, or the client can demonstrate to the support specialist their issue.
RDP, on the other hand, is a resource-sharing platform rather than a screen-sharing one. A single user connects to another device, such as a computer or server. The fact that they have different purposes should be considered while contrasting VNC with RDP.
Performance: RDP vs VNC
With the help of RDP, you may remotely connect to and use any Windows machine, regardless of where it is in the real world. RDP connects to VPS servers so that several users may access the same physical server and utilize it individually. 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 performance reveals that VNC may perform with many more errors or higher latency, especially when more than two accounts are involved.
Supported Platforms: RDP vs VNC
RPD is a Windows original that comes pre-installed on all Windows machines. It only works on Windows-based devices on the server side as well. However, you may use client-side programs that enable RDP on operating systems, including Linux, Mac, iOS, and Android.
VNC is cross-platform compatible and independent of the platform. There are VNC apps available for several operating systems, and there are no restrictions on connecting to various computers on various platforms running multiple operating systems utilizing them.
When Should I Use RDP, and When Should I Use VNC?
When to Use RDP:
- When sharing a computer’s resources with other users (such as a physical server).
- Remote computer access without having to share a screen.
- When you require support for several monitors.
When to Use VNC:
- When a teacher wishes to demonstrate the processes to a pupil for educational objectives.
- Whenever the server runs on a platform other than Windows.
Conclusion: RDP vs VNC
RDP and VNC are well-known and outstanding systems that you may use for various use cases. This article mainly focused on the VNC versus RDP comparisons, hoping to guide you correctly in selecting the best remote access technique. It all depends on why you require remote access. You may also use our RDP Server solutions to deliver dependable, quick, and consistent remote connections with less latency.
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