Desktop

Remote Desktop Protocol

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a Windows NT feature. It is available in most professional & enterprise editions of Windows. This has been the case since Windows XP. The server comes with these editions of Windows. A computer running an RDP server can be connected to by another computer running an RDP client. RDP compatible servers are even available on other operating systems.

This protocol is very good for accessing a Windows desktop remotely. with good equipment even video playback, such as 4k YouTube playback, is possible. RDP is poorly suited for most games and many full-screen and complex 3D applications.

Several clients are available, including FreeRDP, Remmina (based on FreeRDP), and rdesktop. Even home editions of Windows typically include the “Remote Desktop Connection” or similar application, out of the box.

RDP compatible servers exist, that are not made by Microsoft. This includes the open source xrdp.

To learn more visit Microsoft Ignite, or Wikipedia.

Virtual Network Computing

Virtual Network Computing (VNC) uses the Remote Frame Buffer protocol (RFB). VNC has been optimised for many different operating systems. VNC based programs include Real VNC, Krfb, Libvncserver, PocketVNC, Remmina, TigerVNC, TightVNC, VirtualGL, and Vinagre. Learn more on Wikipedia.

VNC provides similar functionality to RDP and has similar limitations.

Real VNC

Real VNC makes VNC Viewer and VNC Server.

Simple Protocol for Independent Computing Environments

Simple Protocol for Independent Computing Environments (SPICE) is a remote viewer for virtual displays in virtual machines. Many clients exist, but the service runs on QEMU and some other KVM hypervisors. Remote access to a virtual machine can be provided globally, from anywhere in the world.

SPICE likely has too much latency in it’s implementation to be effective for video games. VNC and RDP can have better performance.

Others

Parsec – Learn more on Wikipedia.
Chrome Remote Desktop / Chromecast

Video Games

Moonlight & Sunlight

Moonlight is a remote access client designed for GeForce Experience. This allows the client to receive a low latency continuous video stream from the host device. This low latency facilitates playing video games remotely.

Sunlight is a replacement server for Moonlight clients. It is compatible with many different hardware configurations. It is not GeForce Experience reliant.

Steam Remote Play

Play games installed on your gaming PC from most devices across the house or around the world. Steam Remote Play is one of the most popular remote gaming choices. You can even play local cooperative games with a distant friend. Some games are even compatible with certain VR headsets.