Plenty of confusion exists regarding the difference between virtual private networks (VPN) and remote desktop protocol (RDP) software. Some people often assume that both are the same, but in reality, they have distinct characteristics, pros, and cons. Do you want to know in-depth about the VPN and RDP, along with its differences? Continue reading!
What is Virtual Private Network (VPN)?
The virtual private network (VPN) renders the secure and safe tunnel between your device and the internet. It allows you to change your location, maximize security, and protect your privacy. It also helps you unblock the censored websites and enjoy the best experience.
Usually, internet traffic passes through your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and takes the record of the sites you visit and the activities you perform.
But, with the VPN connection, the websites you visit no longer witness your original IP address. So even though the internet traffic passes via your ISP, there is no trace of your final destination.
In short, VPA creates the private and smaller network on the top of the large public network, the internet. Therefore, when you are logged in, VPN allows the application to work only on the local networks via the internet.
Whenever you go out of the file and require to print something, you must wait until you are back and connect to the VPN server directly.
As soon as you set the shared resources on the VPN, such as servers and printers, you will access them remotely. However, remember that VPN renders access to the resources already shared on the network. So, it is extremely different from the remote desktop connection.
What Is Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)?
Remote Desktop Protocol is often called the remote desktop, which allows you to utilize the devices or systems from the remote location. It is the secure network communication protocol launched by Microsoft.
Applications with the Remote Desktop Connection allow you to access and manage the device remotely. You can think of remote access as screen sharing as the remote desktop application mirrors your whole computer’s interface.
Remote desktop solutions access the internet connection to virtually connect the user with their remote devices. After that, it takes over the existing user’s roles. Thus, it does not need separate credentials and dedicated IT infrastructures.
In addition, remote management is protected with the internet’s encryption. While using the remote desktop protocol, the IT administrator initiates every remote access session. Thus, it needs constant monitoring especially handling sensitive data.
What is the difference between VPN and RDP?
Even though RDP and VPN have some similarities, both are functionally different things.
Here are the major differences between Remote Desktop (RDP) and VPN.
Flexibility
VPN and remote desktop has a specific amount of flexibility. But, the VPN renders you access to the network.
On the other hand, RDP provides you control of the whole computer. Moreover, since RDP offers users full control and access to the local computer remotely regardless of where they are, it is much better than the VPN regarding flexibility.
Security
Both provide security but for various purposes. The RDP renders the secure connection to protect your company and enjoy remote access. However, your firm will be more likely able to monitor employee activity.
At the same time, the VPN secures the connection to the internet with strong tunneling and encryption technology. It means VPN protects your information against MITM attacks.
Even though RDP operates on the encrypted channels of the service, it is less powerful than VPN. In addition, inside the company’s network, anyone can access the machine on the internet. But, overall, security is the best with a VPN over a remote desktop.
Usability
When speaking about the usability of the VPN and RDP, you have to consider the number of platforms both tools can install on. The remote desktop can install on the personal computer or laptop.
Additionally, you need the fast internet speed for using the remote desktop protocol to work as desired, and sometimes it becomes prone to lagging.
Unlike this, VPN can install on any device because it contains many user-friendly apps for all the major platforms. In addition, some VPN providers render the VPN as add-ons and browser extensions.
Cost
Cost plays a major role in the difference between VPN and RDP. Usually, VPN is cheaper than RDFs. In addition, VPN providers run special discount programs often to help the users enjoy the services at an affordable rate.
It indicates that you can save more on the VPN. But on the other hand, a remote work structure can benefit the company to save huge collateral costs. And if you need affordable RDP, you can See our RDP Plans
Implementation
RDP may be easier to use, but it needs more effort and time than VPN to install and configure properly. It means you need to allocate specific time to implement RDP without hassle.
However, despite being simpler in these aspects, VPN needs more bandwidth compared to RDP. Overall, it is straightforward for using vpn and rdp.
Core Purpose
The core purpose of the RDP is to access the server to transfer information and data remotely.
But, the purpose of the VPN is to render safe access to the network through tunneling. Sometimes, vpn through rdp is used to ensure the best and most secure connection.
Remote Desktop over VPN
So, you will now have a clear understanding regarding VPN vs remote desktop. However, if you are searching for a remote access solution with excellent control, flexibility, functionality, and options, choosing a remote desktop over VPN is better.
No one wants to sacrifice security while dealing with sensitive data, whether individual or company. Due to this, it is important to make sure that the remote desktop solution you pick up comes with the encryption and highest level of security.
Keep in mind that you should find a reliable platform to access remote desktop solutions. It helps you to enjoy the benefits of RDP without confronting any hassles.
One of the major benefits of choosing RDP over VPN is the precision and level of control accessible with each implementation. With the VPN, you will get the broad network and device control only.
Why choose a VPN?
Even though there is a big debate between choosing VPNs and RDP, many people and companies engage with the VPN. Do you think about the reasons to choose the VPN? Look at below.
What are the types of VPN?
VPN is often categorized by its configuration of network used or network connectivity protocols. Companies and remote workers use VPN extensively to easily connect to the server located at the headquarter. Here are major general VPN classifications.
Host-To-Network Remote Access VPN
Intranet Site-To-Site VPN
Extranet Site-To-Site VPN
Client-Oriented VPN
Network Oriented VPN
What are the advantages of using a VPN?
VPN renders the user a secure network where there is no possibility for data leaks during transfer.
You can safeguard your private information using the VPN with the remotely access device. It does not breach the user’s identity and private information.
VPN renders excellent bandwidth throttling prevention and data throttling prevention.
It renders the cheaper support costs. Many VPN service providers offer the service at discounted rates. In addition, you can use the basic functions without any charge.
Another great benefit of the VPN is the protected file transfer. With the in-built IPv4 and IPv6 protocols, you can stay away from hacking,
What are the disadvantages of using a VPN?
Although VPN provides too many benefits for the user, it also carries some kind of drawbacks. So you should pay attention to those aspects to avoid hassles.
You need to pay a bit extra to access the high-quality VPNs
You will confront certain risks with the free application
Slower internet speeds because of the data transfer via tunneling
Not accessible on all devices
It is difficult to configure in some cases
What are the types of RDP?
Below mentioned are the major type of RDP. But, the features and benefits of the RDP will change with the type of developer you engage with. Some of the main types of RDP available are:
By following Microsoft’s footsteps, all subsequent releases had the remote desktop protocol in one form or other. In addition, some OS developers integrated RDPs because of Microsoft’s RDP popularity.
Contrary to this, many private developers release the application with different features to enhance security and experience.
RDP developed by the third party
Private developers recreate the RDP as a standalone application. It runs on most devices across various Oss. Some private RDP is free to access, but some generate revenue via paid bonus features and ads.
What are the advantages of using an RDP?
Secure connection
Ability to work from anywhere
Highly economical
Simple and easy configuration
Quick access
What are the disadvantages of using an RDP?
Blockages
Reliable network needed
Network dependent
Downtime
Minimal login process
Conclusion
While looking at the difference between RDP and VPN, you will know what to choose based on your needs. Both can be accessed for secured access. However, they render a different plethora of tools.
You can use Virtual Private Networks to get a secure connection. However, RDP renders huge benefits even though it has some downsides. Whether you want to use a VPN or RDP, you need to go through both features and offerings in-depth.
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Regardless of RDP or VPN, a huge boom in digitalization will render you huge benefits and thus use the latest devices to avoid hassles.
Yes! One can hack the remote desktop easily. From the beginning, RDP has a weak firewall without encryption. Even integrating encryption with the latest RDP version throws several safety issues.
Generally, the internet provider or anyone logged into a similar network can easily track the user. Since RDP is free or available with the OS, it lacks certain safety protocols. However, it does not confront this issue due to the firewalls and integrated encryption tools. So, ensure you use the RDP with the encryption.
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