VinagreLinux
vs
UltraVNCWindows
Vinagre as a Linux alternative to UltraVNC
Updated
Our verdict
Vinagre is a functional replacement for UltraVNC's client side, but only if you are on a GNOME desktop and willing to use discontinued software. It handles VNC connections, tabbed multi-connection views, and clipboard sync well. However, it lacks built-in encryption (relying on SSH tunneling) and has no file transfer features, which UltraVNC provides. Since Vinagre is discontinued and superseded by GNOME Connections, it is not recommended for new setups. For occasional remote support where you already manage SSH tunnels, it works. For anything requiring encryption or file sharing, use Remmina or a dedicated VNC client with TLS support instead.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 3.22.0
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Connects to VNC servers including UltraVNC
- Supports multiple simultaneous connections in tabs
- Synchronizes clipboard between local and remote machines
- Adjusts scaling and color depth for display fitting
- Bookmarking and server browsing capabilities
What is different
- No built-in encryption; requires external SSH tunneling for security
- No file transfer functionality between local and remote systems
- Discontinued status means no future updates or security patches
- Lacks service/daemon mode for headless Linux servers
- GNOME-specific UI, less lightweight than UltraVNC's Windows client
Opening your UltraVNC files
UltraVNC does not use proprietary file formats for its core remote desktop function. Configuration files (INI) are specific to the UltraVNC application and are not directly readable by Vinagre. You will need to manually enter connection details (IP, port, password) into Vinagre's bookmarks. There is no direct import of UltraVNC settings, but the underlying VNC protocol is standard, so connectivity is not an issue.
Switching from UltraVNC to Vinagre, step by step
- Install Vinagre via your package manager (e.g., apt install vinagre).
- Note down your UltraVNC server IP addresses and ports from Windows.
- In Vinagre, add new bookmarks for each remote machine using the VNC protocol.
- Set up SSH tunnels if you require encrypted connections, as Vinagre does not support TLS natively.
- Test clipboard synchronization and scaling settings for each connection.
- Remove UltraVNC from Windows if no longer needed for client use.
Key features of Vinagre
- Tab‑based multiple simultaneous connections
- Supports VNC, RDP, SSH tunneling and SPICE
- Server browsing and bookmarking
- Dynamic scaling and color depth adjustment
- Clipboard synchronization between client and server
- Frame compression control for low‑bandwidth links
How to install Vinagre on Linux
sudo apt install vinagresudo dnf install vinagresudo zypper install vinagreFrequently asked questions
Can Vinagre encrypt VNC connections directly?
No. Vinagre does not support TLS or built-in encryption for VNC. You must use SSH tunneling to secure the connection, which adds complexity compared to UltraVNC's optional encryption.
Is Vinagre still maintained?
No, Vinagre is discontinued. It has been superseded by GNOME Connections. While it still works, it will not receive security updates or bug fixes. Consider using Remmina or GNOME Connections for long-term use.
Can I transfer files using Vinagre?
No. Vinagre does not have a file transfer feature. To move files between machines, you must use separate tools like SCP, SFTP, or a shared network drive, unlike UltraVNC which offers basic file transfer.
4 other alternatives to UltraVNC
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