RealVNC vs TightVNC

October 07, 2024 | Author: Michael Stromann
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RealVNC
RealVNC is a UK company founded in 2002 by a team from the world-leading AT&T Laboratories in Cambridge. The company was established to commercially develop, enhance and promote VNC, the innovative remote access software with a widespread international user base. VNC (Virtual Network Computing) software is cross-platform, allowing remote control between different types of computer. 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 free and is redistributable.
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TightVNC
TightVNC is a free remote control software package. With TightVNC, you can see the desktop of a remote machine and control it with your local mouse and keyboard, just like you would do it sitting in the front of that computer.

RealVNC and TightVNC are a bit like trying to decide between a lavish intergalactic cruiser and a humble, trusty starship that gets the job done. RealVNC, with its commercial hat on, swoops in with encryption, file transfer and cloud connectivity—features that sound like something you'd need to access the Department of Galactic Safety (or maybe just that computer you left at the office). It’s all cross-platform and even works on mobile, which means you could theoretically be sipping a Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster while tweaking spreadsheets on your home planet.

TightVNC, on the other hand, is the kind of software that looks at frills, gives a polite nod and carries on without them. It’s open-source, straightforward and—dare we say—charmingly no-nonsense. While it doesn’t offer the bells and whistles of RealVNC, it will happily let you poke around on remote desktops without a fuss, much like Marvin the Paranoid Android doing a task that nobody else wants. Basic functionality, free of charge and very much uncomplicated—TightVNC is for those who don’t mind that it lacks a few glittery extras.

So, which should you choose? Well, if you're the sort who likes to have a towel handy and enjoys the comfort of a centralized, secure and feature-packed solution, RealVNC might just be your perfect match. But if you prefer something simpler, open-source and perfectly capable of delivering you from one side of the universe to the other—without any fancy hyperdrive—TightVNC is your answer. Just make sure not to panic, either way.

See also: Top 10 Remote Support software
Author: Michael Stromann
Michael is an expert in IT Service Management, IT Security and software development. With his extensive experience as a software developer and active involvement in multiple ERP implementation projects, Michael brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his writings. Having previously worked at SAP, he has honed his expertise and gained a deep understanding of software development and implementation processes. Currently, as a freelance developer, Michael continues to contribute to the IT community by sharing his insights through guest articles published on several IT portals. You can contact Michael by email stromann@liventerprise.com