Use VNC Virtual Network Computing to Control a Computer Remotely

VNC, or Virtual Network Computing, is a remote control software package that allows you to see the desktop of a remote machine and control it with your local mouse and keyboard as if you were sitting in front of it. VNC is highly useful in administration, tech support, education, and many other purposes, and can be used by any machine, even cross-platform, allowing you to access a Windows computer from, for example, an iPad. It's fast, easy to install, and best of all, free.

Steps

  1. Download a VNC client. There are a number of variants available that offer things like other built in capabilities, taking up less memory space, or better encryption. Choose one that is right for you and your computer system.
  2. Install VNC on all machines which you plan to access remotely.
    • Choosing "service mode" during installation will allow VNC to run as a Windows service This offers resource-management advantages.
  3. Install VNC on the viewing device. If accessing your computer remotely cross-platform, make sure you have the right software or app. You can also download view only clients to the viewing device.
  4. Confirm that VNC is running on all machines. If the service is running, there will be a new icon in the system tray representing that the software is active.
    • On Macs, you should see the application's icon appear in your Dock.
  5. Access the target computer from the viewing device. Note the IP address of the target (remote) computer somewhere. You will be asked to input this into the viewing app. Click OK to access your computer remotely.
    • Make sure both devices are connected to the internet (for example, via Wi-Fi or 3G).
    • If accessing the target computer on the same home or office network, use the computer's private (internal) IP address.
    • When out and about, use the target computer's public IP address, and make sure to set the target computer's router to the appropriate port.



Tips

  • End-to-end encryption is often a premium (paid) service, so if security is a big concern for you, consider paying for a VNC license.
  • Do a trial run with both devices on the same wi-fi enabled local network first.
  • A basic reliable client is RealVNC. It is free for personal usage, widely used, and created by the inventors of VNC.
  • While VNC is primarily a productivity tool, it can also be used to play amusing tricks on unsuspecting users. On a machine you have permission to access, try taking over the desktop while another user is using it and watch their confusion as the mouse pointer suddenly has a mind of its own. Be aware that this can also be used against you as long as the other person has the IP address.
  • Windows machines have a built in Remote Desktop that, once turned on, will allow you to access the Windows computer remotely as long as you have a client on your local computer.
  • Macs have a built in app in the form of Back to My Mac, but you can also install other clients.
  • Often, the VNC client installed on computers will include a Viewer that you can find within the program's folders.
  • Some internet browsers such as Chrome offer extensions that will turn your browser into a VNC viewer.

Warnings

  • Free software is often not unencrypted, so exercise caution when transmitting sensitive data such as financial information.
  • Make sure you have the latest version of the VNC client and download any patches or updates it has.
  • Do not secretly install VNC on a computer you do not have permission to. Your workplace might not allow VNC to be installed due to security risks, so make sure you ask before you install.
  • Make sure that your network is secure before installing VNC. If the network is vulnerable, there is a risk of intruders gaining direct unauthorized access to the machines on your network. Should this occur, the intruders will have the ability to do a great deal of damage. If your network connects to the internet, make sure that a firewall is in use, and that proper security procedures are observed

Sources and Citations

Related Articles

Retrieved from "https://kipkis.com/index.php?title=Use_VNC_Virtual_Network_Computing_to_Control_a_Computer_Remotely&oldid=364378"