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Andrey “Rarst” Savchenko —  — Software — remote, server, tightvnc, vnc

TigerVNC – TightVNC fork and alternative

tigervnc_icon After many remote access apps covered, I am still not done (sadly) finalizing what to use. There is very fine balance of functions, security and trusting third parties in all of this. I had covered TightVNC, which is my first choice for local network VNC. Around that time development seemed dead and shortly after TigerVNC fork had appeared.

This spring there is development on both fronts with fresh betas of TightVNC and TigerVNC reaching second stable release. So, does TIghtVNC have anything to worry about?

What it does

As all VNC apps for remote access this one consists of server part and viewer to connect with. App is cross platform. Windows version comes in form of installer, that can set server as system service right from the start.

Strong features

App seems to take its self-appointed role of improving TightVNC seriously. No stone was left unturned in interface. As for me settings and option were re-grouped in more consistent and logical way. There are also less technical terms to get in the way for no good reason.

Server got handy window to control clients and dynamically change their connection mode.

tigervnc_server

tigervnc_server

Viewer got slimmed down to single server name input.

tigervnc_client

tigervnc_client

Downsides

There are still some interface hiccups. I almost locked myself out of client computer by going to full screen mode and not knowing how to came back (F8 calls up menu). Saved by floating Samurize indicators, that allowed me to change focus and call up Start menu.

Encryption and Windows-based authentication seem planned, but are currently grayed out in interface. Not safe to use over public channels, just as TightVNC isn’t.

No file transfer. Not a big thing when used in LAN, like it should be, but still annoying.

Overall

TigerVNC without much trouble claims the position TightVNC commonly occupies – easy and relatively convenient tool for hoping at local network computers. However without encryption implemented that is as far as it goes for now. With that single feature it can easily undermine more functional solutions like UltraVNC, that are also way more complex.

Home http://tigervnc.org/

Download http://sourceforge.net/projects/tigervnc/files/

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4 Comments

  • Rush #

    AH HA! Another r/c app to test. The lack of encryption blows but for local connects, it seems to have potential. Nice find A. Couldn't let a remote app go without comment! As always, you rock!

  • jasray #

    Wondering why Ultra VNC disappoints; but even more so, why, if one uses VNC frequently, not invest in Radmin or some other server/client with lifetime upgrades.

  • Olaf #

    Hi I prefer UltraVNC as well (encryption if you like it, file transfer is also available). For an even easier solution try Ammyy ( http://www.ammyy.com/en/downloads.html )

  • Rarst #

    @Rush Can always count on your comment under remote access app. :) @jasray UVNC is very functional but there are considerable downsides. Password length is limited, encryption is inconveniently done with external DLLs, issues with Vista&7... Commercial apps make sense if you have clear task and budget for it. When you don't know when, how many computers and for how long you are going to need to access - licensing becomes pain. @Olaf I've tried Ammyy while back. Easy and generic solution, but proprietary. I am not too paranoid, but full remote access is touchy niche in this regard. :)