VNC

[Also known as Real VNC] In computing, Virtual Network Computing (VNC) is a graphical desktop sharing system that uses the Remote Frame Buffer protocol (RFB) to remotely control another computer. It transmits the keyboard and mouse events from one computer to another, relaying the graphical screen updates back in the other direction, over a network. Popular uses for this technology include remote technical support and accessing files on one's work computer from one's home computer, or vice versa.

VNC is platform-independent – a VNC viewer on one operating system may connect to a VNC server on the same or any other operating system.

There are a number of variants of VNC which offer their own particular functionality; e.g., some optimized for Microsoft Windows, or offering file transfer (not part of VNC proper), etc. Many are compatible (without their added features) with VNC proper in the sense that a viewer of one flavor can connect with a server of another; others are based on VNC code but not compatible with standard VNC.

VNC and RFB are registered trademarks of RealVNC Ltd.