How to Set Up VNC Windows

Virtual Network Client, colloquially known as "VNC," is a software package that allows one computer to display and control another computer across a network or the Internet. VNC is an open-source program, so there are multiple versions of the software made by many developers across many platforms. The most common implementations are found on Windows systems. To use VNC, you'll need one computer running the server program (the computer being accessed) and one running the viewer program.

• 1

  Turn on both computers and log in. Use the Internet browser to download a VNC installer package (three popular packages are featured in the Resources section of this page.)

• 2

  Install the VNC program on both computers. Some VNC implementations (such as TightVNC) do not require an install and run from an extracted folder.

• 3

  Double-click the VNC server icon on the computer you want to access remotely. Type a password into the password and confirmation field (DO NOT operate a VNC server with the default password). Press "OK" or "Start."

• 4

  Switch to your Web browser and enter "whatismyip.com" in the address field. Write down the IP address that appears at the top of the page. Click the "Start" button, then right-click "Computer" or "My Computer" and click "Properties." Write down the name of the computer.

• 5

  Switch to the other computer. Start the VNC viewer program and enter the server's name (if the computer is on the same network) or the IP address (if the first computer is not on the same network.) Enter your VNC password and press "Start" or Connect."