VNC stands for Virtual Network Computing. It is remote control software which allows you to view and fully interact with one computer desktop (the "VNC server") using a simple program (the "VNC viewer") on another computer desktop anywhere on the Internet.
The two computers don`t even have to be the same type, so for example you can use VNC to view a Windows Vista desktop at the office on a Linux or Mac computer at home. For ultimate simplicity, there is even a Java viewer, so that any desktop can be controlled remotely from within a browser without having to install software.
VNC is in widespread active use by many millions throughout industry, academia and privately. There are several versions to choose from, including a free version and some substantially enhanced commercial versions.
VNC has a big range of applications including IT support, system administration and helpdesks. It can also be used to support the mobile user, both for hot desking within the enterprise and also to provide remote access at home, or on the road. The system allows several connections to the same desktop, providing an invaluable tool for collaborative or shared working in the workplace or classroom. Computer support within the geographically spread family is an ever popular use.
For the individual user, one common scenario is using VNC to help troubleshoot the computer of a distant less-technically-savvy relative. In other words, sitting at your desk in Baltimore, you could use VNC to take control of your relative`s PC in California and show them how to install and use some new software package by actually doing it yourself.
A very common business application of VNC is in remote system administration, where it is used to allow administrators to take control of employee machines to diagnose and fix problems, or to access and administer server machines without making a trip to the console. VNC can also be used to provide a flexible hot-desking and road-warrior environment by allowing employees to access their office desktop and server machines from any machine in the company`s offices or from other remote sites, regardless of the type of computers involved at either end.
VNC is widely used in educational contexts, for example to allow a distributed group of students simultaneously to view a computer screen being manipulated by an instructor, or to allow the instructor to take control of the students` computers to provide assistance.
NOTE: To download VNC Enterprise Edition you must register and agree with the RealVNC Limited usage terms HERE.
NOTE: To use VNC Enterprise Edition you must register free of charge for a trial license.
Here are some key features of "VNC Enterprise Edition":
Integrated Session Security:
· Integrated Session Security provides protection from connection snooping, man-in-the-middle attacks and packet-tampering attacks, to name but a few.
· Server Authentication uses 2048-bit RSA keys to verify identity.
· Viewer Authentication supports both usernames and passwords of up to 256 characters each.
· Secure Communication with 128-bit AES-the experts` choice for high performance encryption.
Platform-Native Authentication:
· Platform-Native Authentication removes the need for separate VNC and system passwords. Users can access their desktops using the same credentials with which they log on to the system. For Windows this is authentication via NT-Domain or Active Directory, and for Unix is via NIS/NIS+.
One-Port HTTP & VNC:
· One-Port HTTP & VNC allows VNC Server to serve VNC Viewer for Java and VNC sessions through a single TCP port, simplifying NAT and firewall configuration.
Desktop Scaling:
· Desktop Scaling to a particular size, by a particular ratio, or dynamically to whatever size you choose.
Cross-Platform Interoperability:
· Cross-Platform Interoperability with the other members of the VNC Enterprise family.
File Transfer:
· File Transfer allows you to copy files between your server and viewer computers over the VNC connection-no need for additional configuration.
· Deployment Tool;
· The Deployment Tool for Windows helps to automate the deployment and configuration of VNC software throughout your enterprise.
Limitations:
· 30 days trial period
