How to Use VNC Virtual Network Computing to Control a Computer Remotely

1. VNC is a free remote control software package. With VNC, 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. VNC is:
      * free for both personal and commercial usage, with full source code available,
   
      * useful in administration, tech support, education, and for many other purposes,
   
      * cross-platform, available for Windows and Unix, with Java client included,
   tions.
   
   * compatible with standard VNC software, conforming to RFB protocol specific
   a
   With TightVNC, you can:
      * cut your expenses and save your time on traveling,
   
      * help your friends and family to solve problems with their computers remotely,
   
      * make sure nothing wrong is happening on your computers when you are away.
   
   
   Note: These instructions are specific to Windows OS which also has a built in facility Remote Desktop. If you need access to Windows computers you may be able to simply use Remote Desktop. VNC is more useful in a Linux/Unix environment.
   1
   Visit RealVNC to obtain a copy of the VNC software. It is free for personal use.
   
   2
   Install VNC on all machines which you plan to access remotely.
   3
   Choose "service mode" during installation. This allows VNC to run as a Windows service, which offers resource-management advantages.
   4
   Confirm that VNC is running on all machines. If the service is running, there will be an icon in the system tray showing the letters "VNC."
   5
   To access another machine from your current location, click Start > All Programs > RealVNC > VNC Viewer 4 > Run VNC Viewer. A small input box will appear. Type the IP address of the known remote computer and click OK. You are now successfully connected
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   Tips
   While VNC is primarily a productivity tool, it can also be used to play any number of amusing tricks on unsuspecting users. If you are at home or among friends, try taking over a user's desktop without their knowledge and watch the ensuing chaos. They will wonder why their mouse pointer suddenly has a mind of its own. For extra hilarity, try starting Notepad or something similar and typing in cryptic "messages from beyond." Needless to say, do not secretly install VNC on the computer of your boss or supervisor for these purposes. He or she will not be amused, and you will probably find yourself with a sudden excess of free time.
   
   Warnings
   Make sure that your network is secure before installing VNC. If the network is vulnerable, there is a risk of intruders gaining direct unauthorized access to the machines on your network. Should this occur, the intruders will have the ability to do a great deal of damage. If your network connects to the internet, make sure that a firewall is in use, and that proper security procedures are observed.
   A security hole in RealVNC could be used to log in without a password. Make sure you have the latest version.