In computing, remote desktop concerns protocols and applications enabling applications to be run remotely on a server while being displayed locally. The main remote desktop protocols in use are:

• Virtual Network Computing (VNC) - a simple cross-platform protocol
• Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) - a Windows specific protocol featuring audio and remote printing
• NX technology (NX) - a new cross-platform protocol featuring audio and remote printing
• Independent Computing Architecture (ICA) - a proprietary protocol designed by Citrix Systems
• X Window System (X11) - a cross-platform protocol mainly intended for local windowing, but can also be used remotely

System software | Network-related software