11 Best Remote Desktop Software — For Personal Use and Any Business Size

Remote access software is the trend of 2021. If you are still not using it for your business, then this article is just for you.

Remote Work

What is the use of Remote Access Software?

The global pandemic has shown the world how convenient it is to work remotely. Many companies are now actively using remote access software. By choosing the right tool, you get access to the remote control of one or more devices. The access is carried out via the Internet or local area networks. Programs allow you to access a remote computer even from a mobile device. Some solutions are more suitable for personal use, while others are more suitable for corporate use. This difference comes from the complexity of the security protocols and functionality range. Without leaving your home, you can work with files on your work computer in the office. Isn’t it a superpower? This flexible and versatile approach is a huge advantage in an environment of limited travel and social contacts. And also in situations when you urgently need to view files on a remote computer.

Best Remote Desktop Software Apr’21:

Best For Personal Use

1. Chrome Remote Desktop;
2. Remote Utilities for Windows;
3. TeamViewer.

Best For Mid Business

1. Zoho Assist;
2. AnyDesk.

Best For Large Business

1. Remote PC;
2. Parallels Access;
3. NinjaRMM;
4. GoToMyPc;
5. Remote Desktop Manager;
6. AeroAdmin.

Speaking of the functions of viewing files on a remote computer, there is a number of other useful features. For instance, you can transfer files without using email. In addition, remote access can also be used to print files. One of the most common situations when using remote management solutions is technical support. It is much easier to deal with the problem, having a complete understanding of it and easy access to it. Thus, the resolution of the issue will be much faster when the support team has remote access.

All in all, there are 3 reasons to use remote access software:

1. The ability to use a file at any time and place that is not saved in the exchange program;
2. Providing technical support, fast problem solving;
3. Collaboration — an alternative to cloud solutions.

Default methods

Before looking at the various remote access software and comparing it, let’s take a look at the default methods provided on our computers.

1. Microsoft Remote Desktop

Windows Remote Desktop

Choosing between Windows and Mac isn’t easy. The first one provides great opportunities for using various software and computer games. While the other one is more focused on safety, design and aesthetics. In any case, if you work with both OSes, you need to know how to work between Mac and Windows.

To access Windows applications or files through a macOS device, you just need to use the built-in free tool from Microsoft. To do this, you need Windows 10 (Enterprise or Pro). The advantage of this method is that you don’t need to install any additional software. You do not waste time installing, managing settings, choosing a tariff plan and so on. And most importantly, Microsoft Remote Desktop from Windows PC is available for integration with Mac OS X, Android, iPad and iPhone.

However, there are a few things you need to know before using Microsoft Remote Desktop:

• Using the RDP protocol implies that both devices are on the same local network. For example, at home, these are the most likely devices connected to the same router. To set up a connection, you need to know the IP address of a computer in your local network. It can be found in the Network and Sharing Center.
• Another step that you need to complete is to activate the ability to use RDP on the computer to which the connection will be made. On Windows 10 (Pro or Enterprise), this can be done through Settings → System → Remote Desktop.

2. Apple Remote Desktop

Apple Remote Desktop Solution

This is another solution for managing Mac computers on your local network. Provides basic functionality for remote access: moving files, encryption, safe execution of commands on remote computers. The principle of working with this solution is the same as described above. To connect, you need to go to System Preferences → Sharing and set the “Remote control” flag. You can limit the list of tasks that a remote user can perform.

Cons

Apple Remote Desktop Solution is quite easy to use, only if you understand the principles of remote network connections. So, in case you are just an ordinary user, this tool will be quite complex for you to master. Besides, the price is unreasonably high. For such a cost or even much cheaper, there are specialized software solutions with a large number of functions. We will talk about them later in this article.

Disadvantages of default methods

Any user can use default methods without installing additional programs. But if everything is so simple, why do people use software solutions more?

Firstly, specialized software provides a wide range of functionality. The default methods include only basic functions such as remote access, file manipulation, and on-demand security.

Secondly, software solutions are much more advanced in terms of security and data protection. This is a very important issue for both small and large businesses.

Best Remote Desktop Software Solutions

Now I want to draw your attention to software solutions. I’ll tell you about the top best remote access software and cover the benefits and drawbacks of each method.

For Personal Use

1. Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop Dashboard

Another solution that you can easily use is Chrome Remote Desktop. The software is available free of charge for standard operating systems such as Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android. If you need remote access for personal purposes, not for business, then this is the solution for you. Chrome Remote Desktop is not as rich in features as paid programs. However, it’s a great tool for personal use, since it has all the basic features provided completely free. The program interface is very minimalistic and clear, so you won’t be distracted. Chrome Remote Desktop is a browser extension so you can use it on any device that has a Chrome browser. To use the software, you need to install it on all devices and log into one account.

I tested Chrome Remote Desktop by connecting to my Lenovo 330S laptop from my Samsung A10 smartphone. I performed a simple test: just viewed the file I needed for a working presentation. I also tested the video latency. With a stable Internet connection, a slight delay was noticeable, but this did not seem critical to me.

Price: free

Pros

1. Screen sharing option for collaboration;
2. Secure access provided by Google security technologies.

Cons

1. Limited functionality;
2. Can only be used on devices with Chrome browser;
3. The function of remote printing of files is not available;
4. Files cannot be transferred, only viewing is available.

Remote access to your computer allows you to run programs on it or view files at any time, wherever you are.

Best For: The tool is great for users who do not need a variety of functions and prefer super easy design.

2. Remote Utilities for Windows

Remote Utilities For Windows Dashboard

Remote Utilities for Windows is an excellent remote access solution with a wide range of features. I would like to note that this solution is suitable for those who do not like constant payment. Remote Utilities for Windows provides a free technical license with access to 10 computers. There are also $ 12,000 perpetual licenses for enterprises with access to an unlimited number of computers. Despite its limited use only on Windows, the solution has a number of useful features. The software provides features such as good quality session recording, audio sharing, video calls, and more. For enterprises, Remote Utilities provides server integration to customize user access levels. I also tested transferring a 500MB file between two computers on Windows, which took me about 5 minutes.

Price:

You can compare the price licenses on the main site and see the table of features each plan includes. The endpoint license per unit costs $29, but the minimum purchase is 10 points, so the price will be $290. Starter license is offered for $99, mini for $ 249, the pro one goes for $ 499. You can purchase a site license for an organization that costs $12k.

Pros

1. The subscription that does not require renewal;
2. User-friendly interface;
3. Two-factor authentication.

Cons

1. No connection to cloud accounts;
2. Can’t connect to Linux, macOS computers or mobile device;
3. Сomplex setup process of the first connection to devices.

Best for: Suitable only for Windows users, and accordingly provides remote access functions only for Windows OS.

3. TeamViewer

TeamViewer

It is probably the most famous remote desktop program. TeamViewer is suitable for different operating systems, very easy to use and has saved me more than once in curious situations. It is free for private use and works over an Internet connection. From this point of view, TeamViewer is a universal application if you urgently need to solve some local problem and connect to a remote device. After installation, you will receive an ID and password. You need to enter this data on the computer from which the remote access will be carried out. TeamViewer has apps for Chrome, iOS and Android.

Here’s what you can do with TeamViewer:

• Remote printing;
• File access;
• File transfer;
• Correspondence and voice chat.

To summarize, TeamViewer is a simple remote desktop solution for home use and minor tasks. The solution is very easy to use and does not require any additional settings. If you want to use TeamViewer for commercial purposes, you need to purchase a license.

We will not dwell on this solution and consider a few more of my favourite desktop remote access programs.

Price:

A business license for 1 workplace is available for $50.90 per month. If you need a plan for several workplaces, then the Premium license will cost $102.90 per month. Finally, an Enterprise license for large teams is available for $206.90 per month.

Pros

• Establishing a VPN connection between computers;
• Easy file transfer tool;
• Fast connectivity.

Cons

• Lack of two-factor authentication.

Best For: Great for quick communication and solving local user problems. If you need to work with remote access outside the office, as well as with multiple devices, then Teamviewer is just for you. Although consider the cons of security.

Better for small and medium businesses

1. Zoho Assist

Remote Utilities For Windows Dashboard

Zoho Assist confidently takes its position in the list of the best software for remote access. A small difference between Zoho Assist and the applications we reviewed earlier is that it is a cloud application. Zoho Assist will help you with remote access to other applications, remote support. Zoho Assist does not require installation and can simply be launched in your browser. While working in Zoho Assist, I noted the refresh rate of the screen. And even with slow internet connections, this app keeps you running smoothly. This contributes to the quick solution to problems. You can use the free trial to try this solution. Paid plans start at $10/month per user. Remote Assistance isn’t the only solution from Zoho. It integrates freely with other Zoho products, so if you already have Zoho tools in your arsenal, then you should consider this option. One of the competitive advantages of this solution is the management of stand-alone computers. Zoho allows its customers to avoid the hassle of installing complex software and mastering it. What’s more, Zoho Assist’s interface is intuitive and easy to use, even for beginners. Preconfiguration is required for automatic remote access. So it means you need to install the agent on remote servers or computers. Once installed, you can work with these computers at any time.

Pros

1. Bidirectional data exchange. You can both receive and send data. This saves you the hassle of using third-party software;
2. 24/7 technical support through the technical console;
3. Easy to use: to start a session you just need to log into your account;
4. Run as Service transfers extended privileges between users;
5. Self-control over security with User Access Control (UAC). The security setting is located on the desktop and displays errors that the user can fix on their own;
6. Session record available.

Cons

1. Not suitable for large corporations. Designed for small and medium businesses;
2. If you need a desktop solution, then Zoho Assist does not suit you, since it has no desktop application and works on the web.

Zoho Assist doesn’t have a desktop app. However, this cannot be called a drawback, because the application works great on the web, it is compatible with Android and iOS. Users around the world trust Zoho Assist. That is one of the reasons it is included in the Top 100 Customer Support Software products.

2. AnyDesk

AnyDesk Remote Access Tool

AnyDesk is a desktop remote access and support solution. Using AnyDesk, you can safely connect to a remote computer and share files and solve technical problems. This solution is suitable for IT professionals as well as for those who are often on the go. In fact, AnyDesk has a fairly wide range of features, although it is mainly focused on small and medium-sized businesses. For example, you can remotely reboot, invoice, and sync contacts. What I liked the most was that you can create session reports with AnyDesk. Besides, it comes up with flexible deployment options — in the cloud or on-premises. The solution is provided by subscription, which has three tariff plans. The basic plan for one device is $ 8.45 per month.

Pros

1. Availability for a huge number of operating systems;
2. 14-days trial;
3. A high degree of protection. AnyDesk uses TLS 1.2 banking security technology, RSA encryption of connections, and password hashing;
4. The latency is invisible;
5. Provides customized solutions;
6. Dimming the screen on a remote machine;
7. Setting permissions for the user who is requesting access. You can prevent the use of a mouse or keyboard so that it is impossible to copy files from your device.

Cons

1. Needs improvement in session recordings quality;
2. Expensive compared to alternatives, no local currency available;
3. The phone number for sales inquiries only.

Large businesses and Enterprises

1. Remote PC

Remote PC Webpage

I could not help but mention this decision and now I will tell you why. There are actually several reasons why RemotePC might be the best solution for your business. To get started, RemotePC provides affordable and scalable pricing plans that you can find out about on their website. The Consumer plan costs $29.62 per year and allows 2 computer access. It also provides scaling which is a great business opportunity. It does not force you to think ahead but simply choose the right plan.

I would like to pay special attention here to security because the RemotePC developers have done a great job. To gain access to each computer, you need to know the private key, which acts as a second password for the host. At the end of the session, the host can be automatically locked. TLS v 1.2/AES-256 encryption is used here for remote access, file transfer and support for proxy servers. It also provides secure data transfer between nodes on the network.

I would also like to point out that I sometimes need to connect to a multi-screen device. Luckily, RemotePC allows users to work with multiple screens at the same time.

Pros

1. Simplified configuration of all computers on the network and the creation of accounts for each unit. You can divide users into groups by permissions;
2. Great interface, clear text and images on all kinds of devices and OS;
3. Lowest latency — changes between devices during selection or copying are not noticeable at all. I was extremely amazed by this fact;
4. Individual security and permission settings. Each node in the network can have different security requirements and provide access to different functions;
5. View logs about sessions and reports for the last 90 days. Information about computers, IP address, session duration, means of viewing;
6. Detailed instructions on the site for each function.

Cons

1. When expanding and changing the tariff plan, all users on the network will have to reinstall the software;
2. The web application is limited in functionality, so a desktop application is required;
3. I noticed sometimes excessive scrolling sensitivity using the iPad version.

2. Parallels Access

Parallels Access Promo Video

If you are looking for a fast, reliable and easiest way to access your computer remotely, then Parallels Access is your salvation. With it, you can access all your files hosted on a remote computer. Parallels Access is also an excellent solution for migrating data when switching from Windows to Mac. Great convenience in running programs on Windows not available on Mac. Parallels Access has several pricing plans that can be purchased for one or two years. A one-year personal subscription costs $19.99 and a business subscription costs $49.99. For more information on pricing and tariff plans, visit the Parallels Access website. I noted that Parallels Access has one of the best interfaces. It has been designed in the best possible way to prevent the difficulties of operating a computer via a mobile phone. As far as performance is concerned, I haven’t seen any latency issues over the entire time of use. However, I would like to point out that it takes some time to establish a connection between devices.

Pros

1. A 7-day free version is available for all tariff plans;
2. The ability to enlarge the area of ​​the viewed screen using the Lock’n’go function;
3. Simplified mobile app interface for easy navigation;
4. Fast file transfer between a desktop computer and mobile device;
5. Access to accounts on cloud storage;
6. Uses 256-bit AES and SSL encryption to protect data;
7. 24/7 technical support.

Cons

1. Only one account in the starter plan;
2. Frequent and not always necessary updates;
3. Slow performance with less than 8GB of RAM.

Parallels Access is geared more towards users who want to remotely access their desktops from a mobile phone. This solution is suitable for both students and businesses. Situations when important files or applications are forgotten on the computer happen all over the place.

3. NinjaRMM

NinjaRMM Demo Platform Tutorial

It is both a powerful and simple remote monitoring platform. NinjaRMM is developed on the basis of modern cloud technologies. The software provides the ability to quickly solve customer problems using a powerful set of various functions. NinjaRMM is not only required for monitoring web services, but also for managing network devices and remote access. NinjaRMM is a great solution that takes over some of the tasks and allows companies to focus on other processes. NinjaRMM is a versatile remote monitoring platform. Despite the simple and intuitive interface, this software offers an amazing variety of functions. NinjaRMM has proven its worth by becoming the leader in the G2Crowd rankings. Pricing plans start at $3 per month. Although NinjaRMM does not have a free version, users are offered a free trial period.

Pros

1. Simple and intuitive interface. Even a beginner can very quickly and easily understand the functionality of NinjaRMM;
2. Excellent team support;
3. Provides easy patch management;
4. Allows file-sharing and session recording;
5. Screen sharing — rare but super important and useful feature;
6. Monitoring endpoint virus protection;
7. Two-factor user authentication and differentiation of permissions.

Cons

1. Endpoint monitoring and management is not available for Linux;
2. Active directory integration is not provided. It would be much better if NinjaRMM could develop such a feature in the nearest future;

A large number of NinjaRMM awards are truly well deserved. It’s not in vain that this Remote Access Software is included in the list of the best. It is one of the most powerful and reliable monitoring and remote control solutions. NinjaRMM hel[ to monitor client infrastructure and detect problems early. Absolutely recommend it!

4. GoToMyPC

GoToMyPC Benefits

One of the last on my list, but not least in importance. With GoToMyPC, you can easily access multiple remote computers. You don’t need to be an IT specialist to work with this software. GoToMyPC doesn’t have a wide variety of features, but it does simplify many day-to-day tasks. The solution has three types of tariffs: personal, professional and corporate. Personal costs $35 per month for 1 computer. It is possible to add remote machines, but then you also have to pay an extra $35. GoToMyPC certainly provides basic functionality like file transfer. Moreover, it allows you to transfer multiple files at the same time.

Nevertheless, this solution differs from others in that it has purely basic functionality. For example, using GoToMyPC you cannot record sessions. For me, the lack of this function seemed strange, because session recording is such a widespread function.

Pros

1. Also available for mobile devices on Android, iOS and Kindle;
2. You can view multiple remote screens at the same time;
3. Users can lock the keypad and dim the screen on the remote machine for privacy;
4. Two-factor authentication and use of banking 256-bit AES encryption;
5. High performance;

Cons

1. No recording of working sessions;
2. Not an easy task to contact the support team;
3. The price is quite high for an application with simple functionality

This solution is ideal for those who prefer simple yet reliable software. GoToMyPC doesn’t have a wide range of features, but it does have everything you need. This is what makes it easy to learn and use. The only thing in my opinion is a rather high price, nevertheless, GoToMyPC justifies it with a high degree of protection.

5. Remote Desktop Manager

Remote Desktop Manager Tool

Consider probably the most complex solution of all those presented in this list. I highly recommend paying attention to this solution and now I will explain why. In addition to providing remote access, the program also supplies a number of incredibly convenient and valuable features. First, Remote Desktop Manager provides centralized password management and two-factor authentication. This solution is provided both in the desktop version and for mobile phones on Android and iOS platforms. But that’s not the last thing Remote Desktop Manager works with. With this solution, you can access account management using Amazon, Dropbox, and more. In addition, the tool has a central encrypted repository. It stores login information for user network services. The Remote Desktop Manager provides access at various levels to this repository. It also has a tool for choosing functions and determining a personal tariff plan.

Pros

1. Role-based access;
2. The most intuitive interface;
3. Increased focus on safety;
4. Devolutions provides excellent customer support. Manuals, videos, online help and forms are all available to users;
5. 30 days of free trial;
6. Free for individual users (no team features available).

Cons

1. The functionality in mobile applications is limited and is suitable only for basic operations on the go;
2. Too expensive for small businesses.

The solution is one of the best desktop remote access software. Suitable for medium and large businesses. If you have a small business, then I advise you to take a closer look at other options. I would also like to point out that role-based access is a huge advantage for IT teams.

6. AeroAdmin

AeroAdmin Main Window

AeroAdmin is the last solution on my list of recommendations. But this does not mean that it is worse than the rest. AeroAdmin is a remote access software that allows you to control other machines over the Internet. Using it you can transfer files, connect to more than 1 computer. The goal of the AeroAdmin developers was to minimize the steps in the remote connection process. That is why you can start using it immediately after installing the software. It does not require wasting time on long settings. I’d like to point out that AeroAdmin is free software. There is also a paid version with advanced functionality. I was also amazed that AeroAdmin only needed 3.12 MB of hard disk space. And despite its lightness, the software provides all the necessary functions for remote access. For example, network administration, remote monitoring, session reports, and more.

Pros

1. AES encryption combined with RSA;
2. Available for Windows, macOS, Linux;
3. Connecting to a remote computer without confirmation;
4. Contact list for quick connection;
5. Full access to the file storage of the remote computer;
6. Ability to take screenshots during sessions;
7. Connect to multiple computers at the same time;
8. Auto balance of quality and speed — a selection of the best image at the current bandwidth.

Cons

1. No mobile versions;
2. Lack of text chat;
3. Experienced minor connection dropouts.

FAQ

Of course, if you are planning to switch to using remote access services, you may have questions. As for the functionality, pros, cons and price, I tried to describe it in detail in the article. In addition, on the site of each of the solutions, you can find answers to your questions in the help or FaQ section. Now I would like to answer the 2 most common questions about remote access software.

Why does my company need remote access software?

Many people wonder if they need remote access software for their business or not. Therefore, I think it is important to clarify this point. By purchasing desktop software for remote access for your company, you open up a number of irreplaceable opportunities. For example, you can print files located on a remote computer and manage them. The technical support service can help you regardless of location. Also, while on the road, you can connect to a remote computer via your mobile phone. There are many opportunities for IT companies to monitor and delimit access levels.

Which remote access software is best for my company?

In this article, I have divided the solutions into those suitable for personal use, for small and medium businesses, and for large enterprises. This is the main criterion that should be followed when choosing. You can agree that for individual use, you do not need the whole range of functions that are provided to large enterprises. You can simply get confused about the interface and become unsatisfied with the software. Large businesses also need remote access software that meets all functional needs.

The next two criteria that I advise you to pay attention to safety and cost.

All of the solutions presented in this article are highly secure. However, for large corporations, this issue can be acute. On the website of each solution, you can find detailed information about encryption and data protection technologies. Then decide whether they are suitable for the level of protection claimed by your company. The issue of price is also important no matter how successful your business is. You need to compare the functionality and the price. For example, I noted about GoToMyPC that the functionality is not so wide, and the price is high.

Conclusion

Overall, desktop remote access software provides many options to simplify file management and collaboration. Programs give almost full access to the functionality of a remote device, regardless of location. Remote access software is an indispensable tool for technical support professionals. However, ordinary users, IT companies, educational programs also often use this software in their work.