Item: VNC Connect
Rating: 2
Author: Steve Hooper

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

We use VNC as the remote access tool of last resort, preferring to use either Avast/AVG's Cloudcare remote access tool or ScreenConnect (ConnectWise), which we have found to be an excellent alternative.

Pros and Cons

Simple to install and administer
Minimal end user intervention
Robust

Slow response times
Occasional issues with screen handling
Major problems with UAC (but not alone there!)

Return on Investment

In its day, VNC was an excellent product, but its screen response times are now so poor that it's barely useable
Where all else fails, VNC still seems to work
We still deploy it occasionally, but not through choice

Alternatives Considered

ConnectWise Control (formerly ScreenConnect)

I'm afraid that the only thing VNC has going for it is that it's free. Otherwise ConnectWise is an infinitely superior product and one which I would heartily recommend. We also looked at Bomgar, but the pricing there was astronomical in comparison with Connectwise. The free remote access software contained within the Avast/AVG Cloudcare product is also excellent.

Other Software Used

ConnectWise Control (formerly ScreenConnect), AVG Managed Workplace 10

Likelihood to Recommend

VNC is ideal where you don't want the end user to have to initiate any connection, although you will have to have either a presence on the LAN (possibly by PPTP login) or some port forwards (not recommended). It's probably best suited for internal support of a company, rather than external.

VNC - good in its day

Overall Satisfaction with VNC