I had started to type up what I thought VNC does on login; then I decided to simply post this link. It should answer any question about security around the initial authentication:
http://www.uk.research.att.com/vnc/faq.html#q55 -----Original Message----- From: Chris Berry [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, February 26, 2003 1:15 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: Remote access solution >From: "Mike Jensen" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >One thing to keep in mind when using VNC is that even though the inital >authentication may be secure, anything you type while controlling the >computer is sent in plain text. So, if you were to connect to a windows >machine, for example, then login to or unlock the screen on that machine , >that password you type is sent across the network in the clear. >Or, you type in your password to check your e-mail on that computer; again, >your password is sent in the clear. > >I've always recommended tunneling the whole VNC session through some type >of encryption method. (I prefer VPNs) Actually, I don't think even the initial authentication is secure, you should definitely use some sort of encryption (ssh or vpn or both) Personally I'd say ssh is fine when you're connecting from one interior computer to another, but if you're going to connect from home or something I'd say tacking a vpn on top would be a good idea. Chris Berry [EMAIL PROTECTED] Systems Administrator JM Associates "Linux and I have a love/hate relationship. I hate its complexity until I figure out how something works, then I love its power." _________________________________________________________________ Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., and its subsidiary and affiliate companies are not responsible for errors or omissions in this e-mail message. Any personal comments made in this e-mail do not reflect the views of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida, Inc.
