Skip to main content

​
Accessing Your Server’s Virtual Console

Virtual Network Computing (VNC) allows you to connect directly to your server’s console as if you were physically sitting in front of it. This is invaluable when SSH is unavailable, the network is misconfigured, or you need to interact with the boot process or install an operating system from media.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Time

3 Minutes

​
Enabling VNC Access

1

Navigate to Your Server

Click on Servers in the top navigation bar, then click Manage next to the server you want to access via VNC.
2

Open the Options Tab

Click on the Options tab in the server management navigation.
3

Select the VNC Sub-Tab

You will land on the VNC sub-tab by default. Here you will see a description of VNC functionality.
4

Enable VNC Access

Click the Enable VNC Access button. The system will initialize a VNC session and provide you with the connection details or open an in-browser console window.
5

Use the Console

Once enabled, a web-based VNC console will open directly in your browser. You can interact with your server exactly as you would on a physical monitor — including seeing the boot screen, entering BIOS, and logging in at the OS level.

​
When to Use VNC

SSH Not Working

When SSH is unavailable due to firewall misconfiguration, network issues, or a failed SSH service, VNC gives you direct console access to fix the problem.

OS Installation

When installing a custom operating system from CD/DVD media, VNC allows you to interact with the installation wizard and configure the OS manually.

Boot Issues

When your server fails to boot properly, VNC lets you see error messages, access the GRUB menu, or interact with the boot process to diagnose and resolve issues.

Locked Out

If you have accidentally locked yourself out of SSH (wrong firewall rules, changed SSH port, disabled SSH service), VNC provides an alternative path into your server.

​
VNC Tips and Best Practices

  • Keyboard Input — Some special key combinations may behave differently through the web-based VNC client. Look for on-screen buttons to send Ctrl+Alt+Del and other special key sequences.
  • Performance — VNC provides a graphical console view. For best performance, use a wired internet connection and a modern browser.
  • Security — Disable VNC access when you are finished using it, as it provides an additional access point to your server. VNC should be used primarily for troubleshooting, not as your regular access method.
  • Clipboard — You may not be able to copy and paste directly into the VNC console. Use the VNC client’s built-in clipboard tool if available.
VNC access needs to be manually enabled from the Options tab. It is not active by default. Once enabled, you can use it as needed, and disable it when finished.
The web-based VNC console is provided through the control panel interface, so you do not need to open additional ports on your server or configure firewall rules.
The control panel provides a built-in web-based VNC client for convenience. Depending on your setup, external VNC client support may vary.
We recommend disabling VNC when not in use. SSH is the preferred method for regular server access as it is more secure, faster, and better suited for command-line work.

​
Need Extra Help?

If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:

​
Save on Your Hosting

Ready to get a new server? Use code KB20 at checkout for 20% off your first month!
Last Updated: March 2026 | VPS Support: VNC console access simplified.