Introduction
Third-Party VNC Server Connections allow you to use RealVNC Connect Viewer to connect to VNC servers that are not part of the RealVNC Connect ecosystem. This feature gives you the flexibility to manage all your remote connections in one place, whether you're connecting to RealVNC Server or other VNC-compatible servers.
It's important to note that when connecting to third-party VNC servers, these connections are unencrypted. For secure, encrypted connections with enterprise-grade security features, we strongly recommend using RealVNC Server instead.
See our comparison guide for details on how RealVNC Server compares to open-source VNC servers.
Requirements
Before you can connect to third-party VNC servers, ensure you meet the following requirements:
RealVNC Connect Viewer 8.4.0 or later
You must have version 8.4.0 or later of RealVNC Connect Viewer installed on your device. Earlier versions do not support third-party VNC server connections. To check your version or download the latest release, visit the RealVNC website.
Paid plan
Third-Party VNC Server Connections are available exclusively on paid plans. For more information on our plans and the features they each include, please visit our pricing page.
Signed in to your RealVNC account
You must be signed in to your RealVNC account in the RealVNC Connect Viewer to use this feature. If you're not signed in, you won't be able to add or connect to third-party VNC servers.
Important Security Considerations
Connections to third-party VNC servers using this feature are unencrypted. This means that data transmitted during your remote session, including screen content and keyboard input, is not protected by encryption and could potentially be intercepted.
Recommended alternative
For secure, encrypted connections, we strongly recommend using RealVNC Server on your remote devices. RealVNC Server provides:
- End-to-end encryption
- Advanced authentication methods
- Enterprise-grade security features
- Secure access to your devices, even those outside your local network
- Hassle-free connections with our cloud-based brokering service
- Session recording and audit capabilities
To download RealVNC Server go to our Downloads page.
Connecting to a Third-Party VNC Server
- Sign into RealVNC Connect Viewer
-
Enter the IP address or hostname of the device you want to connect to into the search bar at the top of the page
- Press Enter on your keyboard
- Successfully authenticate the connection
- You should now be connected to the third-party VNC server
Note: The authentication method and credentials are determined by the third-party VNC server, not by RealVNC. If you experience authentication issues, consult the documentation for your specific VNC server software.
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