VNC - Virtual Network Computing

What is VNC?

VNC (Virtual Network Computing) is a graphical desktop-sharing system that uses the Remote Frame Buffer (RFB) protocol to remotely control another computer by transmitting keyboard, mouse, and display data.

Why is VNC useful?

VNC is useful for remote technical support, system administration, and accessing desktops across networks or platforms. It allows users to view and interact with a remote system’s graphical desktop as if they were physically present.

How it works?

VNC works by capturing the graphical output (framebuffer) of the host system and sending it over the network to a VNC client. The client sends back keyboard and mouse input, enabling full remote interaction. It is platform-independent and often works over simple network connections.

Where is VNC used?

VNC is commonly used in: - IT support and troubleshooting - Headless server management - Remote desktop access for users - Educational environments and demonstrations

Which OSI layer does this protocol belong to?

VNC operates primarily at the Application Layer (Layer 7) of the OSI model using the RFB protocol over TCP/IP.

Is VNC Windows specific?

No, VNC is not Windows specific. It is a cross-platform protocol with both clients and servers available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and even mobile platforms.

Is VNC Linux specific?

No, but VNC is widely used in Linux environments. Linux has multiple VNC servers like TigerVNC, TightVNC, and x11vnc, and is a common platform for VNC deployments.

Which Transport Protocol is used by VNC?

VNC uses TCP as its transport protocol for transmitting display and input data.

Which Port is used by VNC?

By default, VNC uses TCP port 5900 for the first display. Additional displays use 5901, 5902, and so on. VNC over HTTP (Java viewer) typically uses port 5800.

Is VNC using Client server model?

Yes, VNC uses a client-server model. The VNC server runs on the machine to be controlled, and the VNC client (viewer) connects to it to display and interact with the remote desktop.

Topics in this section,

  • In this section, you are going to learn

  • Terminology

  • Version Info

  • rfc details

  • setup

  • setup

  • packet details

  • usecases

  • features

  • Reference links