Is Using Virtual Network Computing a Secure Choice

In this article, we will be discussing VNC and VPN and highlighting whether the usage of these solutions can put your data at risk of being exposed to third parties or not.

What is a VNC System?

A Virtual Network Computing (VNC) system allows for cross-platform screen sharing. It enables the user to remotely control one computer from another over a network. This means that while using a secondary computer, the user can remotely access and use the primary computer, move its mouse, or press the keyboard as though he was next to the primary one.

Why do People Use VNC?

Below are some of the reasons why people use VNC.

1. Working Remotely: With many people working from home, companies rely on VNC to make it possible for employees to access their desktops remotely. This way, the company’s assets do not have to leave the office and employees can even work after-hours without carrying their desktops to and from work daily.
2. Business Continuity Processes (BCP): We live in a world of uncertainties where things such as natural disasters and pandemics occur when we least expect them. Should these be experienced, people may be unable to get to their workplaces and having VNC can make businesses to be able to continue more seamlessly.
3. Access to Technical Support remotely: If you find yourself having IT issues while you are nowhere close to your office, it can be difficult to explain the issue you are facing to your IT/ Technical support guy. Having VNC will allow the IT department to have access to your computer and offer you support from any location you are based at.

What Is The Difference Between Using VNC and Using VPN and Is VNC Secure?

Although they sound similar, VPN and VNC are different. VNC is used on computers to gain control over other machines remotely using a network connection. A VPN on the other hand is used to connect computers to a secure network through the use of a specific server. With a VPN, data travelling from one computer to the next is encrypted and this makes VPN more secure than VNC. 

Although VNC is better for remote computing, it is not secure especially if privacy and anonymity are important to you. VPNs are more secure because they encrypt all traffic between your computer and the VPN entry point. This means that your IP address is also encrypted, and your location will remain undetected while you are online.