Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be located in C:\Program Files\TigerVNC\tigervnc.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\TigerVNC\tigervnc.exe
Warning
Multiple connections may exist
TigerVNC server can accept several client connections; ensure you configure strong passwords and firewalls
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Stop the server service (TigerVNC Server) or disable startup to prevent remote access when not needed
What is tigervnc.exe?
tigervnc.exe is the Windows server executable for TigerVNC. It enables remote desktop by serving VNC clients with access to the host display via the RFB protocol. The process runs as a service or a standalone server, depending on configuration.
TigerVNC Server implements a VNC-compatible display over the RFB protocol; it authenticates clients and supports encryption options. It can run as a Windows service or foreground process, listening on port 5900 (and display numbers).
Quick Fact: TigerVNC focuses on performance and extensibility, combining libvncserver with improved encoding and cross-platform support.
Types of TigerVNC Processes
- VNC Server Process: Main tigervnc.exe instance handling client connections
- Viewer/Client: tigervnc-based viewers or other VNC clients connecting to the server
- Service: Windows service wrapper that launches the server at boot or on demand
Is tigervnc.exe Safe?
Yes, tigervnc.exe is safe when downloaded from official sources (TigerVNC.org) and used with proper authentication and firewall rules.
Is tigervnc.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real tigervnc.exe is NOT a virus. Malware may masquerade with similar names; verify source and digital signature.
How to Tell if tigervnc.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\TigerVNC\tigervnc.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\TigerVNC\tigervnc.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click tigervnc.exe in Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show "TigerVNC Project" or official certificate issuer.
- Resource Usage: Monitor with Task Manager; normal usage is light to moderate when idle, higher under remote sessions.
- Behavior: Server should not launch without a user action unless configured as a service. Unexpected behavior warrants malware scan.
Red Flags: If tigervnc.exe is found outside TigerVNC directories, runs when you’re not using remote access, lacks a valid signature, or shows unusual startup behavior, scan with up-to-date antivirus. Beware of similarly named files.
Why Is tigervnc.exe Running on My PC?
tigervnc.exe runs when the TigerVNC server is active, either due to a remote session, automatic startup, or a background service configured to allow VNC access.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Remote VNC Sessions: A client connected to the VNC server, keeping the server process alive to service the session.
- VNC Server Service: TigerVNC is installed as a Windows service to start at boot and accept connections without a logged-in user.
- Startup Entry: The server may be configured to start automatically at Windows startup or user login.
- Display Binding: The server binds to a display number (e.g., :1) and port 5901, and remains ready for connections.
- Background Administration: Administrative tools may launch tigervnc.exe in the background for remote management or automation tasks.
Can I Disable or Remove tigervnc.exe?
Yes, you can disable tigervnc.exe. If remote access is not required, you can stop the server and remove the startup entry or uninstall TigerVNC.
How to Stop tigervnc.exe
- Stop the Service: Open Services (services.msc) → locate 'TigerVNC Server' → Stop
- Close Active Sessions: Disconnect any connected VNC clients from the server.
- Disable Startup: In Services, set Startup Type to Disabled; or remove startup task if present.
- Disable Background Access: In Windows Task Scheduler or startup items, disable any TigerVNC-related tasks.
- Uninstall: Use Apps & Features to uninstall TigerVNC; reboot if prompted.
How to Uninstall TigerVNC
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → TigerVNC → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → TigerVNC → Uninstall
- ✔ After uninstall, consider using a different remote desktop solution if needed
Common Problems: Remote Desktop Performance and Connectivity
If tigervnc.exe is misbehaving, use these checks to restore access and secure connections.
Common Causes & Solutions
- No authentication or weak passwords: Set strong passwords for VNC access and enable TLS if available.
- Port blocked by firewall: Open port 5900+ on the firewall or use SSH tunnel for security.
- High latency over VPN: Adjust color depth, reduce resolution, or enable performance options in server settings.
- Client and server version mismatch: Use compatible VNC viewer and server versions; update TigerVNC on both ends.
- Server not starting after reboot: Ensure service is set to Automatic and that user has permissions; reinstall if needed.
- Clipboard and file transfer issues: Enable or configure clipboard sharing in server/client settings; check permissions.
Quick Fixes:
1. Restart the TigerVNC Server service and verify port listening with netstat
2. Verify firewall rules allow port 5900 or your display port
3. Update TigerVNC to the latest release from official site
4. Ensure you have a strong VNC password and use TLS when possible
5. Test with a local client to confirm connectivity before remote access
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tigervnc.exe?
tigervnc.exe is the TigerVNC Server executable that hosts remote desktop sessions via the VNC protocol. It can run as a Windows service or a foreground process.
Is tigervnc.exe safe or a virus?
Yes, tigervnc.exe is legitimate when downloaded from official sources (TigerVNC.org) and used with proper authentication and firewall settings.
Why is tigervnc.exe using CPU resources?
CPU usage occurs during active remote sessions or when clients repeatedly refresh the display. Check connected clients and reduce update rates or color depth.
How do I stop tigervnc.exe from starting at boot?
Open Services (services.msc) → find 'TigerVNC Server' → set Startup Type to Disabled, or remove the startup entry.
How do I uninstall TigerVNC?
Use Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → TigerVNC → Uninstall, then reboot if prompted.
How can I secure TigerVNC connections?
Configure a strong VNC password, enable encryption/TLS when supported, restrict access by IP, and use SSH tunneling for additional security.