VNC Server Password not changing on port 5900

2 min read 23-10-2024

the ifix

VNC Server Password not changing on port 5900

When managing a VNC (Virtual Network Computing) server, a common issue that users encounter is the inability to change the VNC server password on port 5900. This can lead to access problems and security concerns if the default password remains in use. In this article, we'll examine this issue and provide solutions to help you successfully update your VNC server password.

The Problem Scenario

The initial code snippet that illustrates the problem might look like this:

vncpasswd

After executing this command, some users report that their VNC server password does not seem to change, or the change does not take effect on the server running on port 5900.

Why Is the Password Not Changing?

There are several reasons why the password change may not take effect:

Incorrect Command Usage: Users might not have the proper permissions or might be running the command in the wrong context.
Configuration File Issues: The VNC server configuration files may have restrictions or settings that prevent the password from updating.
Service Interference: Sometimes, another process or service could be running on port 5900, which interferes with the expected behavior of the VNC server.
Server Restart Requirement: A simple oversight is neglecting to restart the VNC server after changing the password.

Analyzing the Issue

To troubleshoot the issue, follow these steps:

Check User Permissions: Ensure that you are running the vncpasswd command with adequate permissions. You might need to use sudo if you're operating in a restricted environment.
```
sudo vncpasswd
```
Verify the VNC Configuration: Navigate to your VNC configuration files. Usually, these are located in your home directory under ~/.vnc/. Look for files named hostname:display-number, and make sure that the password file is correctly referenced.
Check Port Usage: Verify if any other service is occupying port 5900:
```
netstat -tuln | grep 5900
```
If another service is using this port, consider stopping that service or configuring your VNC server to use a different port.
Restart the VNC Server: After changing the password, restart your VNC server to ensure the changes take effect.
```
vncserver -kill :1
vncserver :1
```
Replace :1 with your actual display number.

Practical Example

Let's assume you have installed a VNC server and want to secure it by changing the password. Follow these steps:

Open a terminal and execute the command:
```
vncpasswd
```
Enter your new password when prompted.
Check if the VNC server is running:
```
vncserver -list
```

If it is running, restart the server:

vncserver -kill :1  # where :1 is your display number
vncserver :1

Now attempt to connect using a VNC client with your new password.

Conclusion

Changing the VNC server password on port 5900 is essential for maintaining the security of your remote connections. By following the steps outlined above, you can troubleshoot and resolve issues related to password changes effectively. Always remember to check user permissions, review configuration files, and restart your VNC service to ensure that your updates are applied correctly.

Useful Resources

By following this guide, you can ensure a secure and functional VNC setup that allows for smooth remote access while safeguarding your system.