TightVNC is a free, open-source software application that allows you to view and control a remote computer via the internet using the VNC protocol. It consists of two main components: the Server (installed on the remote machine) and the Viewer (installed on your local device). Below, we explain exactly what TightVNC is and provide a step-by-step guide on how to configure it on Ubuntu.
Understanding TightVNC: Server vs. Viewer
The TightVNC software consists of two apps:
- TightVNC Server: We have to install it on the receiving computer (the remote one you want to control).
- TightVNC Viewer: Must be installed on the computer from which we will connect (the local machine).
Through a simple and intuitive interface, we can provide remote assistance through this software, which is a very useful thing in many situations. Basically, on the screen of the computer that we use to control, we can view everything from the display of the machine which is controlled. This is done either through the client or using a web browser.
How to use TightVNC? Key Features
To control another PC, enter the IP of the computer to be controlled, then enter the password for the TightVNC server that was installed on the controlled computer.
- You can make file transfers through TightVNC, and the file manager interface is similar to Total Commander.
- As the software is very lightweight, it does not consume many system resources and requires minimal disk space.
- TightVNC is very easy to use and has no restrictions as a free application, unlike majority of remote support apps that require payment.
How to configure the TightVNC server on Ubuntu
To set up the TightVNC server, follow these steps via your terminal:
1. Install the components (xOrg, LXDE, TightVNC)
Run the following command to install the necessary packages:
a. xOrg
b.Ubuntu desktop (LXDE)
c.Ubuntu VNC server (TightVNC)
sudo apt-get install xorg lxde-core tightvncserver
2. Configure VNC and set a password
Run the server for the first time to set up your password:
tightvncserver: 1
3. Modify the config file
We will have to modify the config file in /root/.vnc/ because VNC does not know that the LXDE Desktop must be on.
nano ~ / .vnc / xstartup
follow the change:
Delete # before # x-window-manager &
We add the lxterminal line &
We add the / usr / bin / lxsession -s line LXDE &
Update the file to look like this (ensure you add lxterminal and lxsession lines):
#! / Bin / sh
xrdb $ HOME / .Xresources
xsetroot-solid gray
# x-terminal-emulator -geometry 80×24 + 10 + 10 -ls -title “$ VNCDESKTOP Desktop” &
x-window-manager &
lxterminal &
/ usr / bin / lxsession -s LXDE &
# Fix to make GNOME work
export XKL_XMODMAP_DISABLE = 1
/ Etc / X11 / XSESSION
Save the file with Ctrl + O and exit NANO with Ctrl + X.
4. Restart the VNC
To restart the VNC, we need to close it. First, kill the current session:
tightVNCserver -kill: 1
5. Start it again with specific geometry
VNCserver: 1 -geometry 1024×768 -depth 16-pixel format rgb565
TightVNC Server System Requirements and Compatibility
Now you can connect to your new TightVNC server. To connect, you need a VNC Client.
- Windows: TightVNC is compatible with all Windows Versions released in the last 20 years (Windows 7, 8, 10 and Server versions).
- Linux: Compatible with most major Linux distributions.
- Mac: Unfortunately, TightVNC is not compatible on a Mac.
In order for the software to work, your computer needs to meet the minimum system requirements.
Any remote control program assumes the existence of two components: the server and the client. The server is usually the remote target computer you are connecting to. The client is the program that connects to the server.
For more info on remote access, se our guides on how to use RDP and how to secure Windows Remote Desktop.
