RDP vs VPN: what's the difference?

Remote and hybrid work have reshaped how businesses access data and manage technology. As employees move between home, the office, and other locations, organizations need secure ways to access systems and internal resources from anywhere. 

One common way to enable secure remote access is through a virtual private network (VPN) or a remote desktop protocol (RDP) connection. But what’s the difference between these two technologies? 

Let’s explore the differences between VPN and remote desktop, discuss their key similarities, and review some considerations when choosing which one is right for you.

How remote desktop supports a business

At its core, remote access software allows for remote support in any organizational setting. Teams have the capability to access different workstations and mobile devices as if they were physically located at the workplace or another location. This allows for faster resolution of any issues as well as less disruption to regular operations. There are also notable cost savings by not having to have support teams onsite at all times.

It's especially beneficial for businesses because it's an efficient way of providing support services. IT technicians can quickly assess any technical issue by connecting to the user’s machine and making the necessary changes without needing to be physically present. This, in turn, allows them to be more proactive with their support organization.

In addition, remote desktop software for MSPs can help streamline mundane tasks so employees can focus on higher-value activities.

Finally, by using a remote desktop platform, you address one of the biggest concerns with a remote workforce: security. Remote access software helps secure your data and devices from external threats with a universal standard of support.

Benefits of remote desktop

Remote desktop provides a wide variety of advantages such as:

• The combination of remote access and strong security
• Easily managing multiple remote machines
• Lowering tech team turnover by increasing job satisfaction
• Cross-platform compatibility
• Better proactivity with technical support
• Supports collaboration between geographically dispersed workers

With all the benefits of remote desktop, you want to make sure you are implementing it in a secure manner. Ensure your remote desktop tools are safe from cyber threats with our eBook, Intruder Alert: Secure Your Remote Access Tools From Cyberattacks.

Benefits of VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) is another option for providing secure remote access. It creates a private and encrypted connection between two networks, allowing users to access their data while working remotely securely.

A key benefit of using a VPN is the added layer of security it provides by encrypting all traffic going through the tunnel between the two networks, making it much more difficult for malicious hackers to intercept any information being sent or received. This helps protect the user’s data from any potential cyber threats.

In addition, a VPN can provide access to local networks or websites that may not be available in specific locations. This is especially important for businesses operating internationally, as it allows them to easily access resources in other countries without needing to travel there physically.

Pros of VPNs

VPNs offer several advantages for organizations that need to securely connect remote users to internal networks and resources.

• Secure remote access
• Enhanced connections that protect data in transit
• Access to internal or region-restricted resources 
• Widely supported across enterprise networks

Cons of VPNs

Although VPNs provide many benefits, there are some limitations organizations should consider:

• Slower speeds than direct connections due to additional network overhead
• May require additional configuration or infrastructure in some environments
• Troubleshooting connection issues can be more complex

Can you use remote desktop and VPN together?

Fortunately, you can use remote desktop and VPNs together. Using both technologies together can provide maximum security for users accessing resources from different locations.

For example, a user can establish a secure connection over a VPN and then make a remote desktop connection to the same machine. This would provide them with an added layer of protection when accessing sensitive data or applications on the network.

VPN vs RDP: Simplifying secure remote access

Ultimately, both remote desktop and VPNs can play a role in providing secure remote access, and many organizations use them together depending on their needs.  

With ScreenConnect Remote Access, organizations can simplify how they connect to remote systems while maintaining strong security. ScreenConnect provides a secure and reliable way to access remote machines without requiring traditional VPN infrastructure, allowing technicians to quickly connect to devices over the internet as if they were in the same room.

Start your free 14-day trial to see how ScreenConnect can help your team deliver secure and efficient remote support.