Virtual Network Computing (VNC) Access

You can use Apple Remote Desktop (ARD) to access a VNC server and view and interact with the server's screen. VNC access is determined by the VNC server software. To access a VNC server, it is only necessary to know the IP address or fully qualified domain name and the password designated in the VNC server software.

This password does not necessarily correspond with any other password on the system, and is determined by the VNC configuration.

VNC access is similar to ARD's Control command. It allows you to use your keyboard and mouse to control a VNC server across a network. It doesn't give any other ARD administrator privileges except those of the currently logged in user.

Non-Apple VNC viewers can control ARD clients if the client allows it. Allowing a non-Apple VNC viewer access to an ARD client is less secure than using ARD to control the client. The VNC protocol does not encrypt keystrokes sent over the network, so sensitive information can be intercepted over the network.

Warning: Granting VNC access to control a screen is the most powerful feature in ARD, and can be equivalent to unrestricted access.

1. On the client computer, open System Preferences and click Sharing.

   On Mac OS X 10.2 clients, select the Remote Desktop pane and skip to step 4.

   If necessary, enter the user name and password of a user with administrator privileges on that computer.

2. Select Apple Remote Desktop in the Sharing Methods pane.
3. Click Access Privileges.
4. Select "VNC viewers may control screen with the password."
5. Enter a VNC password.

   Warning: Do not use the same password as any local user or login.