Krfb
Krfb: A free, open-source VNC server for basic Linux desktop access. Ranked #127 of 134 in Remote Desktop Software by our editors (5.4/10); pricing: Free plan; best for linux users needing basic VNC desktop sharing.
At a glance
- Editor score5.4 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLinux users needing basic VNC desktop sharing
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Access modeBoth
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free, open-source Linux desktop sharing
- Supports attended and unattended remote access
- Works with VNC clients and KDE Remote Desktop Connection
Where it doesn't
- Linux-only platform support
- No file transfer or session recording
- No mobile apps or hosted remote-support workflow
Our verdict on Krfb
Krfb is a free, open-source Linux desktop-sharing server from KDE. It shares the current desktop through the VNC/RFB protocol, allowing a remote user to view the screen and, when permitted, control the keyboard and mouse. It supports both attended connections, which can be accepted or refused, and unattended remote access. Authentication is controlled with a password, while network port configuration and local-network announcements through Service Location Protocol provide additional connection options. Krfb runs in the system tray after its main window is closed.
The main fit is compatibility with established VNC workflows. Krfb can accept connections from VNC clients and integrates with KDE Remote Desktop Connection, making it suitable for Linux users who already have a compatible viewer. It is distributed under the GPL-2.0-or-later license and is installed through Linux distribution package managers or AppStream-compatible stores. The published product details describe a desktop-sharing server rather than a hosted remote-support service, so its use centers on sharing an existing Linux desktop instead of managing a broader support operation.
Krfb’s narrow focus is both its strength and its boundary. Password authentication, attended approval, unattended access, remote input control, port configuration, and local-network service announcement cover the core needs of basic Linux VNC sharing. It does not include file transfer, session recording, mobile apps, or broader platform support. Choose Krfb when free, open-source Linux desktop sharing and VNC compatibility are the priorities. Choose an alternative when remote support requires mobile access, cross-platform coverage, file exchange, recording, or a hosted service model.
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Krfb pricing
Krfb fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Access mode | Both |
| Supported platforms | Linux |
| File transfer | Not verified |
| Session recording | Not verified |
| Managed devices | Not verified |
| Mobile apps | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 2 integrations: VNC clients, KDE Remote Desktop Connection |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | apps.kde.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Krfb integrations
Krfb lists 2 integrations on its own site.
- VNC clients
- KDE Remote Desktop Connection
Alternatives to Krfb
- StarDeskA remote desktop app: reach your own Windows PC or Mac from Windows, macOS, Android or iOS.9.7
- TeamViewer RemoteA mature remote support platform with broad coverage, integrations, and AI features.9.4
- SplashtopA paid remote-access suite with low entry pricing, broad platforms, and deep integrations.9.2
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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