VNC vs RDP – Which is the Better Remote Solution?

Remote work is more prevalent than ever these days. Individual and business-level operations are being completed remotely. But what about the primary technology underlying these remote work operations? 

Remote access protocols are the primary link between desktop computers and servers, allowing online workers free access to their location computers at their workplace. There are numerous remote access protocols, each with its own quirks, features, and applications. This variety of options allows users to make their own decisions, but it’s also led to a lot of debate over which of these protocols is the best.

So in this post, I will review two of the best remote access protocols in VNC and RDP, examine their differences and similarities, and finally evaluate their best conjoined use cases in order to give you a better idea of which to pick.

1- What is RDP?

RDP is the acronym used to refer to Microsoft’s remote access protocol, known in full as remote desktop protocol. RDP is one of the oldest and most reputable remote access protocols in the world, with its original development dating back all the way to the 1990s. RDP is known for its security, ease of use, compatibility with Windows, and long development cycle that has led to it being a pristine remote access option.

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2- What is VNC?

VNC is an abbreviation for virtual network computing and a remote access protocol. In terms of protocol comparisons, VNC is more directly comparable to RDP because they both sustain a graphical user interface (GUI), whereas the majority of protocols operate on a code-based scheme. 

VNC’s strongest point and most popular utility is its ability to be platform independent and thus works on any and all platforms, regardless of operating system. It is a cross-platform remote access protocol with strict security and amazing performance under pressure.

3- RDP vs VNC

So, with the basic definitions covered, what is the primary difference between RDP and VNC? And how do these two remote access protocols compare against each other? In general, while both protocols are diverse enough to support cross-platform connections, at the end of the day, RDP is tailored by Microsoft to be as compatible as possible with Windows. It also does not support all platforms, and there is a limit to its diversity. VNC on the other hand will run on every single platform, however, it lacks the full compatibility that RDP has with its own OS.

Differences

The most significant distinction between RDP and VNC is that RDP uses computing resources to properly replicate the destination host’s features in a virtual session. This is not the case with VNC, and the protocol instead uses a simple display of your destination host to allow you to access and use it. Because of its unique connection keys and encryption, RDP is thought to be slightly safer than VNC. VNC, on the other hand, necessitates less upkeep and is much simpler to set up. 

Similarities

In general, we must recognize that all of these remote access protocols are much more similar than dissimilar. The most significant similarity between VNC and RDP is that they both support a wide range of platforms. RDP is a protocol that is used in a variety of remote access programs that can also be utilized on other devices, whereas VNC is a virtual display that will run on every operating system as long as there is internet access.

4- RDP vs VNC: Best Use Cases

VNC: Quick Access

VNC is known for its ability to be configured and deployed at a moment’s notice in order to tackle important issues on tight schedules. For this reason, VNC is a great remote access protocol to have around, even if you use another protocol, VNC can come in quickly to save a critical situation.

RDP: Security

If security is a serious issue, namely if you plan to use your server as a trading platform, or any other financially sensitive operation, then RDP is the one for you. Its advanced encryption, authentication, and unique access keys make it ideal for these purposes.

VNC: Better IT Use

When you use RDP, you do not connect directly to the computer itself, but rather to a server. RDP is not the best when it comes to implementing solutions on different devices. VNC on the other hand gives direct access to the computer and is suitable for all devices, making it ideal for remote IT help.

RDP: Workplace Server

As I said, RDP connects to a server. This server can be divided into a major workplace server, with allocated resources, roles, and access levels used to handle different projects and to create a virtual workplace hierarchy. 

Summary

All the prominent remote access servers are prominent for a reason. They are all useful in their own unique way. Of course, it is also important to choose the one that suits your needs the best!