UltraVNC — The Complete Guide: Feature-Rich VNC for Windows with File Transfer and Chat
UltraVNC is an open-source (GNU GPL) VNC implementation for Windows that adds useful support tools on top of basic VNC: file transfer, chat, multi-monitor support and installation as a service. It is free for any use, commercial included.
UltraVNC
UltraVNC team (uvnc)
Feature-rich open-source VNC server and viewer for Windows, with file transfer, chat and an encryption plugin.
Get it from the vendorWhat you get
- File transfer — copy files between the computers during a session.
- Chat — explain to a colleague what you are doing as you go.
- Multiple monitors — work on a workstation with two or more screens.
- Run as a service — reach Windows workstations and servers even before a user logs in.
- SC module — a small file you prepare in advance and send to a colleague, which opens an outgoing support connection without a full install.
Limitations, and security
UltraVNC runs only on Windows; from other systems you can connect through the Java viewer. Encryption needs a separate plugin, so set it up along with a strong password, and never expose the server directly to the internet — from outside, only through a VPN. According to the official site it may not be bundled inside an installer of non-GPL software. And if someone who phoned you sends a “support” file to run — do not run it.
Related tools
For basic, simple VNC on Windows — TightVNC. For managing every office computer from the browser — MeshCentral. For open-source support over the internet — RustDesk.
TightVNC
GlavSoft LLC
A classic VNC server and viewer for Windows, open source and free for any use, for controlling computers on a local network.
Get it from the vendor
MeshCentral
Ylian Saint-Hilaire and contributors
A self-hosted web site for remote device management: remote desktop, terminal and file access from the browser.
Get it from the vendor
RustDesk
RustDesk (Purslane Ltd. and community)
Open-source remote desktop tool, an alternative to TeamViewer and AnyDesk, with the option to run your own relay server.
Get it from the vendor
TigerVNC
TigerVNC project
Fast open-source VNC implementation with TLS encryption, widely used for remote desktops on Linux servers.
Get it from the vendorThe bottom line
A full VNC tool for support on a Windows-based office network, provided you enable encryption and stay behind a VPN.