RealVNC Connect vs ISL Online: Which is Remote Access in 2025?

Working remotely is becoming more common, and having the right tools for remote access is key.

But choosing between different remote desktop software can be a real headache.

You might be wondering, “Which one actually works best for me?”

Let’s compare RealVNC Connect vs ISL Online to help you choose the best option for your remote work needs.

Overview

We’ve tested both RealVNC Connect and ISL Online, evaluating their features, ease of use, security, and performance.

This hands-on experience has given us a clear picture of how each remote access solution performs in real-world scenarios.

What is RealVNC Connect?

So, what exactly is RealVNC Connect?

It’s a remote access tool that lets you control a computer from anywhere.

Think of it like being right in front of the machine, even if you’re miles away.

Also, explore our favorite RealVNC Connect alternatives…

Key Benefits

• Direct Access: Connect straight to your machines.
• Cross-Platform: Works on many devices.
• High Security: Encrypts your connections.
• Team Support: Helps many users at once.
• Flexible Licensing: Pay for what you need.

Pricing

VNC Connect has different plans.

• Premium: $29.75/month
• Plus: $16.50/month
• Essential: $8.25

What is ISL Online?

Okay, let’s talk about ISL Online. It’s another strong contender in the remote access world.

This software helps you connect to and control computers, just like RealVNC.

It’s often praised for its flexibility, letting you choose how you deploy it.

Also, explore our favorite ISL Online alternatives…

Also, explore our favorite ISL Online alternatives…

Key Benefits

• 100% On-Premise Option: You can host it on your own servers. This gives you full control.
• Unlimited Devices/Users: One license covers unlimited endpoints. This saves you money.
• Strong Security Features: It uses end-to-end encryption. Your data stays private.
• Custom Branding: You can add your company’s logo. It looks more professional.
• Live Chat Integration: Talk to customers while helping them.
• Wake On LAN: Turn on a computer remotely.
• Session Recording: Record sessions for training or review.

Pricing

ISL Online’s pricing is straightforward. They offer different plans:

• Standard: $34.90/month.
• Premium: $54.90/month
• Enterprise: $99.90/month
• Pay Per Use: $0.25/min

Feature Comparison

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. We’ll compare RealVNC Connect and ISL Online side-by-side.

This will help you see how their features stack up, giving you a clearer picture of your remote access needs.

1. Security & Encryption

Security is paramount when accessing and controlling a remote computer. Both platforms aim to encrypt your sessions to keep your data safe.

• RealVNC Connect: This solution uses strong 256-bit AES encryption. It also offers multi-factor authentication (MFA) and granular access controls. This means you can set very specific rules for who can do what. Their focus is on enterprise-grade security for sensitive data.
• ISL Online: ISL Online also provides end-to-end encryption, using RSA 2048/4096-bit key exchange and AES 256-bit encryption. A key strength is its on-premise deployment option. This lets you host all data on your own servers, which is a big plus for strict compliance needs.

2. Cross-Platform Compatibility

You need a tool that works on all your devices. Both ISL Light vs RealVNC Connect offer broad support.

• RealVNC Connect: It supports a wide range of operating systems. This includes Windows, macOS, Linux, and even Raspberry Pi. You can also connect from your mobile device, whether it’s an iOS or Android phone or tablet.
• ISL Online: This platform also boasts strong cross-platform support. You can use it on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers. It also provides mobile device support for Android and iOS, letting you offer technical support or access devices on the go.

3. Ease of Use & Setup

How quickly can you get started? This is a key part of the comparison.

• RealVNC Connect: Many real user experiences highlight its straightforward setup. It’s designed to be intuitive so you can connect quickly. The unified application (combining viewer and server) simplifies things.
• ISL Online: ISL Online is also known for ease of use. While it might involve a small client installation, the isl light client is streamlined. It’s built for both quick support and more permanent setups, aiming for a stable experience once installed.

4. Remote Support Capabilities

For remote support, you need specific tools. Both offer a solid set.

• RealVNC Connect: It includes features like file transfer, chat, and session recording. You can also get “On-Demand Assist” for quick, no-install support sessions. This is great for helping free for users or clients who don’t have the software installed.
• ISL Online: This software provides robust file transfer, session recording, and in-session chat. It also offers video conferencing capabilities, which can be very helpful for technical support. You can also capture screenshots during sessions for documentation.

5. Licensing 

Understanding how you pay is crucial. When you compare ISL Light and RealVNC, their approaches differ.

• RealVNC Connect: Its pricing is often per device or concurrent session. While there’s a basic free option for users for non-commercial use, businesses typically choose paid plans based on the number of managed devices or simultaneous connections.
• ISL Online: ISL Online uses a per-concurrent-user model. This means one license allows an unlimited number of devices and users, as long as only one session is active at a time. This can be cost-effective for large enterprises with many users but fewer simultaneous connections.

6. Advanced Features & Customization

Beyond the basics, what extra power do they offer?

• RealVNC Connect: provides multi-monitor support, remote printing, and advanced access control. It also offers features like “Code Connect” for secure, temporary guest sessions and “HelpDesk” for dedicated support teams.
• ISL Online: This platform offers extensive customization options, letting you white-label the software with your company’s branding. It also includes features like Wake-on-LAN, multi-monitor navigation, and an RDP/SSH tunnel for advanced connections.

7. Customer Support & Community

Good customer support is vital when you run into issues. Both companies offer various ways to get help.

• RealVNC Connect: They provide a help center with articles, FAQs, and a community forum where you can ask the community for help. For more direct help, they offer email, live chat, and phone technical support for eligible plans. We rely on verified user reviews and experiences from real users to gauge how well this support performs.
• ISL Online: ISL Online also has a comprehensive knowledge base, video tutorials, and direct support channels like email, live chat, and phone. 

What to Look for When Choosing Remote Access Software?

When picking your remote access tool, consider these key insights:

• Security Features: Always prioritize robust encryption and multi-factor authentication.
• Platform Compatibility: Ensure it works across all your devices (Windows, Mac, Linux, mobile).
• Performance & Latency: Look for smooth, low-lag connections, especially for demanding tasks.
• Pricing Model: Understand if it’s per device, per user, or concurrent sessions.
• Ease of Use: A simple, intuitive interface saves time and frustration.
• Support Options: Check for responsive customer service and helpful documentation.
• Specific Features: Do you need file transfer, session recording, or custom branding?
• Deployment Options: Cloud-based or on-premise (self-hosted) flexibility.
• Scalability: Can it grow with your team or business needs?

Final Verdict 

After comparing both, RealVNC Connect is our top pick for most users.

Why? Its setup is simpler, and VNC Connect offers really smooth performance for daily tasks.

It’s a reliable, secure way to connect from anywhere.

Our researchers use a mix of testing and verified user reviews to bring you selection and ranking information you can trust.

We may earn a referral fee when you visit a vendor’s site.

But our findings remain honest to help you choose the best.

More of RealVNC Connect

Here’s a brief look at RealVNC Connect compared to its alternatives, highlighting their standout features:

• RealVNC Connect vs Getscreen: Getscreen offers easy browser-based remote access and support, with customizable branding and self-hosted options.
• RealVNC Connect vs TeamViewer: TeamViewer provides comprehensive remote access, meetings, and collaboration tools, and is extensively cross-platform compatible.
• RealVNC Connect vs AnyDesk: AnyDesk is known for its high-performance, low-latency remote connections, prioritizing speed and ease of use.
• RealVNC Connect vs Splashtop: Splashtop excels in high-definition streaming and low latency, ideal for media and creative professionals.
• RealVNC Connect vs RemotePC: RemotePC offers always-on remote access, multi-to-multi monitor support, and robust file transfer capabilities.
• RealVNC Connect vs GoTo Resolve: GoTo Resolve combines remote access with IT management features like patch management and automated tasks.
• RealVNC Connect vs BeyondTrust: BeyondTrust focuses on enterprise-grade security, privileged access management, and comprehensive audit trails.

More of ISL Online

Here’s a brief look at ISL Online compared to its alternatives, highlighting their standout features:

• ISL Online vs Getscreen: Getscreen provides easy browser-based remote access, focusing on simplicity and quick connections without client installation.
• ISL Online vs TeamViewer: TeamViewer offers comprehensive remote access, meetings, and collaboration tools, with widespread brand recognition and adoption.
• ISL Online vs AnyDesk: AnyDesk delivers high-performance, low-latency remote connections, prioritizing speed and a lightweight client for quick tasks.
• ISL Online vs Splashtop: Splashtop excels in high-definition streaming and low latency, ideal for multimedia and graphics-intensive remote work.
• ISL Online vs RemotePC: RemotePC provides robust, always-on remote access, multi-monitor support, and secure file transfer for various users.
• ISL Online vs GoTo Resolve: GoTo Resolve combines remote access with broader IT management, including monitoring, ticketing, and automation capabilities.
• ISL Online vs BeyondTrust: BeyondTrust specializes in enterprise-grade security, privileged access management, and comprehensive auditing for compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions