10 BEST Remote Desktop Software (2025)

Best Remote Desktop Software

Remote administration tools help IT professionals to debug remotely. The best remote desktop software enables professionals to securely control and maintain devices across any location with efficiency. I created this guide to help you compare the best remote desktop tools, highlighting performance, reliability, and user experience. Understanding these solutions is crucial for ensuring productivity, business continuity, and technical agility.

After researching 30+ best remote desktop software, I spent over 75+ hours exploring both free and paid options. My trusted and unbiased guide dives deep into the comprehensive features, pros and cons, and pricing of these RDP tools. This well-researched article is your ultimate resource to discover exclusive and insightful software options. You must read the full article to uncover credible information that may help you find the best remote access tool for your needs.
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Editor's Choice
Zoho Assist

Zoho Assist offers remote access software that found to be one of the most user-friendly tools. It lets you schedule screen-sharing sessions, helps you swap screens, allows annotation, and supports mobile devices.

Visit Zoho Assist

Best Free Remote Desktop Software Applications

Name Special Features Device Compatibility Free Trial Link
Zoho Assist
Zoho Assist
Clipboard Syncing, Wake-on-LAN, Mobile SDK Integration Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook 15-day free trial Learn More
Remote Access Plus
Remote Access Plus
Video Call Integration, System Manager, Session Recording Windows, Mac, Linux 30-Day Free Trial Learn More
RemotePC
RemotePC
ARD Gateway Support, Always-On Remote Access, Business Console Management Android, iOS, Mac, Linux 7-Day Free Trial Learn More
NinjaOne
NinjaOne
Multi-screen Support, One-click Reboots, File Transfer Windows, Mac, and Linux 14-Day Free Trial Learn More
ISL Online
ISL Online
RDP Connection, Session Queue Management, Audit Logging Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux 15-Day Free Trial Learn More
Zendesk
Zendesk
Chat, File Sharing, Screen Sharing Android, iOS, Windows, Mac 14-Day Free Trial Learn More

For reliable remote desktop access in 2025, consider Zoho Assist, Remote Access Plus, RemotePC, ISL Online, or TeamViewer. Each provides strong performance, security, and diverse features for personal and business use.

1) Zoho Assist

Zoho Assist offers remote access software that I found to be one of the most user-friendly tools. During my research, I discovered how simple it was to set up remote support and access solutions. I particularly liked the instant chat feature, and the screen-sharing functionality offered me a smooth experience.

It helped me feel secure with its 256-bit AES encryption, SSL, and TLS. I could effortlessly access both Android and iOS devices, and this tool is great for professionals who need quick and secure access.

#1 Top Pick
Zoho Assist
  • Security: SaaS, TLS
  • Data Transfer: High Quality Data Transfer with SSL 256-bit AES encryption
  • Special features: Screen Sharing
  • Apps: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook & Raspberry pi
  • Free trial: 15-Day Free Trial (No Credit Card Required)
Learn More

Features:

  • Unattended Remote Access: Zoho Assist’s unattended access feature is incredibly useful for managing systems without needing someone on the other end. It lets technicians perform updates or resolve issues at any time, which minimizes downtime. I’ve used this in multi-location IT setups, and it saved hours of coordination. I suggest enabling automatic wake settings to ensure devices stay accessible even after power cycles.
  • File Transfer Functionality: With Zoho Assist, sharing files mid-session is smooth and fast. There’s no need for third-party tools, and the transfer doesn’t interrupt the remote desktop view. I used this feature often to deploy patches quickly. The tool lets you drag and drop files directly, which improves speed and usability during time-sensitive fixes.
  • Multi-Monitor Navigation: Switching between multiple screens is straightforward and efficient. This feature helped me support graphic designers and developers who often work with dual or triple monitors. I didn’t have to end sessions or reconnect—just clicked and navigated between screens smoothly. I recommend using the screen preview panel to quickly identify active monitors.
  • Custom Branding Options: Zoho Assist enables white-label customization so your support interface looks professional and on-brand. I’ve implemented this for multiple clients, and it creates a polished experience. It’s a subtle feature, but it reinforces client trust and brand consistency. You can also add your logo and modify email templates.
  • Wake-on-LAN Capability: Even if the system is in sleep mode, Wake-on-LAN lets you start it remotely. This is especially handy during off-hours troubleshooting. I once had to patch a remote system over a weekend, and this feature made it possible without physical access. There is also an option that lets you combine this with scheduled sessions for automated workflows.
  • Mobile SDK Integration: Zoho Assist’s mobile SDK helps embed support into your apps, making user assistance seamless and direct. I worked with a fintech client who integrated it into their mobile dashboard, cutting support resolution time significantly. The SDK is lightweight and easy to implement.
  • Clipboard Syncing: This little gem syncs clipboard content across local and remote devices. Copying commands or URLs becomes instant, speeding up sessions. I found this handy while setting up configurations across systems. I recommend enabling clipboard sync by default—it subtly improves session flow and technician productivity.

Pros

  • You can plan support sessions ahead of time, which helps streamline workloads
  • Zoho’s actionable session search lets me track performance and refine support strategies
  • The browser-based console works flawlessly and keeps things lightweight

Cons

  • I have faced some lags while transferring files over 2 GB 

Pricing:

Zoho Assist offers a free basic remote support plan with 1 simultaneous session. It also offers a 15-day free trial without any credit card requirement to try the paid plans. For paid  remote support plans, please refer to the table below: 

Plan Name  Price
Standard $10 (2 simultaneous sessions)
Professional $15 (4 simultaneous sessions)
Enterprise $25 (6 simultaneous sessions)

Visit Zoho Assist >>

15-Day Free Trial (No Credit Card Required)


2) Remote Access Plus

I evaluated Remote Access Plus during my research and found it to be a powerful remote access software. It allowed me to troubleshoot computers from a central location, be it Windows, Mac, or Linux. It comes with instant communication tools, including voice, video, and text, that helps in  resolving issues faster.

The tool also provides SSL encryption, which ensures the sessions remain secure. Its compatibility with multiple operating systems and extensive language support is ideal for large organizations, enhancing their operational efficiency and productivity significantly.

#2
Remote Access Plus
  • Security: SSL
  • Data Transfer: Yes
  • Special features: Multi language Support
  • Apps: Windows, Mac, Linux
  • Free trial: 30-Day Free Trial (No Credit Card Required)
Learn More

Features:

  • Voice and Video Call Integration: Remote Access Plus includes integrated voice and video calling features to enhance collaboration. This is especially valuable when screen-sharing isn’t enough. I’ve used it during complex hardware troubleshooting where seeing the actual setup helped. While testing this feature, I noticed it reduced the average resolution time in support tickets.
  • Power Management Controls: The tool lets you execute remote shutdowns, restarts, hibernation, or log-off commands. It’s a reliable way to manage endpoints without needing a physical presence. I’ve scheduled after-hours reboots for software updates using this feature. It helps IT teams maintain systems proactively and without user disruption.
  • Remote Device Manager: This tool allows you to manage hardware components and software settings remotely. I used it to verify driver versions and disable malfunctioning peripherals without user interruption. It’s a solid alternative to physical diagnostics. The tool lets you instantly review device configurations, saving several back-and-forths with the end user.
  • System Manager Tool: System Manager gives a snapshot of processes, services, hardware specs, and logs across multiple systems—without launching sessions. I discovered this while exploring hidden tools in the interface. I suggest using this for quick diagnostics during high-ticket volumes—it lets you triage issues faster than standard sessions.
  • Session Recording and Playback: Sessions are automatically recorded and saved for auditing, training, or compliance needs. This feature adds accountability and improves support quality. I reviewed my session recordings to train junior technicians. I recommend tagging recordings by issue type—it makes retrieval faster for internal analysis.

Pros

  • Remote Access Plus includes essential utilities like Task Manager, Registry Editor, and Event Viewer within sessions that helped me diagnose problems without external apps
  • The centralized dashboard displays session metrics, device statuses, and technician activity in real time
  • The Live-Chat feature helps clarify problems quickly and keeps users engaged during the session

Cons

  • While managing multiple displays, I have noticed that the process is not as seamless as expected 

Pricing:

ManageEngine Remote Access Plus offers a free plan with a 10 computer range. There is also a 30-day free trial with no credit card requirement. For paid standard monthly cloud plans, please refer to the table below:

Computer Range Price
CR 25 $10
CR 50 $20
CR 100 $30

Visit Remote Access Plus

30-Day Free Trial (No Credit Card Required)


3) RemotePC

I tested RemotePC and found it to be a remarkable solution for remote access software. Its encryption with TLS v 1.2 / AES-256 made me feel confident that my data was secure. I was able to connect across Android, iOS, Mac, and Linux without any issues. It offered me a seamless experience, and the multi-user support on a single computer was perfect for my team’s needs. I suggest RemotePC for anyone who needs a user-friendly remote access tool.

The software’s ability to facilitate file transfers and remote printing significantly enhances productivity. The collaboration features, such as the multi-user whiteboard and chat options, further streamline teamwork, making it an excellent choice for businesses aiming to improve their remote work capabilities.

#3
RemotePC
  • Security: TLS v 1.2 / AES-256 encryption
  • Data Transfer: Yes
  • Special features: Multiple Users into one Computer
  • Apps: Android, iOS, mac, linux
  • Free trial: 7-Day Free Trial (No credit card required)
Learn More

Features:

  • Always-On Remote Access: You can keep remote systems accessible at all times without repeating the login or setup process. This feature has saved me countless hours when managing unattended systems. I suggest enabling this for critical machines that need frequent access—it prevents unnecessary downtime or user dependency.
  • File Transfer: The drag-and-drop interface for moving files between local and remote systems is fast and intuitive. I’ve used it to share large media assets across teams without using third-party cloud tools. Transfers are secure and don’t interrupt the session, which is a significant plus.
  • Collaboration Tools: Built-in chat, whiteboard, and session recording features help teams stay aligned during sessions. I’ve used the whiteboard while guiding interns through remote training—it’s surprisingly effective. There is also an option to record interactions, which is great for replays and documentation.
  • Business Console Management: The centralized web dashboard efficiently manages users, access permissions, and device statuses. As a team lead, I’ve relied on this to assign roles and monitor activity. You will notice that audit trails and user logs are easy to review and export when needed.
  • ARD Gateway Support: RemotePC supports Apple Remote Desktop Gateway connections. I worked with a Mac-based design agency that benefited from this feature. It helped bridge existing infrastructure with RemotePC without workflow disruptions. Few competitors offer this level of Mac-centric support.

Pros

  • The centralized web dashboard helped me manage users, access permissions, and device statuses efficiently
  • I could easily access client machines through Chrome on a borrowed laptop, and it worked smoothly
  • It lets you listen to audio output from the remote computer on your local device

Cons

  •  Users may encounter limitations in file transfer, session recording, and other basic features when connecting to Linux machines

Pricing:

RemotePC offers 7-Day free trial for its paid plans. Additionally, you can check the annual pricing for the Remote Desktop plans:

Plan Name Price
Consumer $22.12
Soho $74.62
Team $224.62

Visit RemotePC >>

7-Day Free Trial (No Credit Card Required)


4) NinjaOne

I evaluated NinjaOne during my research and found it to be a top-tier remote access solution, especially suited for IT teams needing secure, efficient, and flexible control over remote endpoints. It enabled me to troubleshoot devices across Windows, macOS, and Linux environments effortlessly—all from a single, centralized platform.

NinjaOne is laser-focused on security and performance, offering end-to-end encryption and dynamic bandwidth optimization to keep sessions smooth and safe. Its unattended access, multi-monitor navigation, and real-time communication tools make it a powerful asset for IT support teams, particularly in distributed or hybrid workforces.

#4
NinjaOne
  • Security: AES-256 encryption and two-factor authentication
  • Data Transfer: High Quality Data Transfer with AES-256 encryption
  • Special features: Fast, reliable device connection  
  • Apps: Windows, Linux, macOS
  • Free trial: 14-Day Free Trial
Learn More

Features:

  • One-Click Remote Access: NinjaOne’s standout feature is its lightning-fast, one-click remote connection. It takes seconds to launch into a session, which makes it excellent for time-sensitive troubleshooting or quick routine checks. I relied on this heavily during high-volume support days.
  • Multi-Monitor Support: For devices with multiple displays, NinjaOne lets you navigate each screen fluidly during a session. I used this when supporting creative teams with dual or triple monitor setups, and it worked without any lag or confusion.
  • Technician Tools Built-In: From remote file transfers to launching the command prompt or PowerShell, NinjaOne includes a robust toolkit. I accessed the Task Manager and performed system reboots mid-session without ever needing a third-party utility.
  • Dynamic Bandwidth Optimization: Sessions automatically adjust for network conditions. I tested this over weak Wi-Fi and was impressed by how it maintained a responsive session by reducing visual quality just enough to keep things usable.
  • Session Security: NinjaOne uses advanced encryption protocols for every remote session. This gave me confidence while working on sensitive systems, especially for clients in healthcare and finance.
  • Privacy & Data Protection Controls: Features like disabling clipboard syncing and using “Paste as Keystrokes” add an extra layer of privacy. I enabled these during compliance-driven sessions where data leakage had to be strictly avoided.

Pros

  • NinjaOne’s remote access is fast, reliable, and secure, with built-in tools that reduce the need for external software
  • Unattended access and cross-platform compatibility make it excellent for MSPs and IT teams
  • The live chat and technician toolkit streamline troubleshooting and improve first-contact resolution times

Cons

  • Some advanced features may require configuration outside the remote access module

Pricing:

NinjaOne operates on a custom pricing model. There’s no public pricing, but a free trial is available by request. Prospective users can request a personalized quote through the NinjaOne pricing page.

Visit NinjaOne >>

14-Days Free Trial


5) ISL Online

During my research, I reviewed ISL Online and found it great for remote support. It provided me with various features that focus on strong security. I could easily access remote computers on Windows, Mac, and Linux. It also allows you to connect securely to mobile devices like iOS and Android. 

ISL Online supports unlimited users and devices under one license and limits only the number of concurrent sessions. Unlike TeamViewer, it is intended for professional use only. ISL Online extends its offerings to include a self-hosted license, permitting you to install the software on your server. This option is particularly appealing to those with stringent privacy and security requirements.

#5
ISL Online
  • Security: 256-bit AES end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, ISO 27001 certified
  • Data Transfer: Yes
  • Special Features: RDP connection, customization options
  • Apps: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android
  • Free Trial: 15-Day Free Trial (No Credit Card Required)
Visit ISL Online

Features:

  • Screen Sharing with Control: This feature allows complete control and visibility during support sessions, which enhances collaboration. I’ve used it to guide clients through complex software setups in real time. The tool lets you assign or revoke control instantly, offering flexibility during shared troubleshooting.
  • RDP connection: This tool lets you route Microsoft Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) sessions. These sessions occur between your local computer and unattended computers running in the remote network without using a VPN or making any firewall changes.
  • Session Queue Management: ISL Online’s session queue makes managing multiple incoming support requests easier. It efficiently distributes the workload across agents, helping us significantly reduce average wait times in a recent support campaign. I recommend setting priority tags in the queue to handle critical sessions faster.
  • Comprehensive Audit Logging: ISL Online offers detailed session logs with timestamps, identities, and actions taken. This is invaluable for compliance and incident tracking. I’ve referred to logs during internal audits and found them thorough. You will notice export options in various formats—use them to maintain secure backups of your activity trails.
  • Curtain Mode (Black Screen Feature): This feature hides the screen on the user’s end during sensitive support tasks. I used this to work on confidential data without exposing content to local eyes. It’s a great privacy layer for remote administration. I suggest enabling this for all admin-level tasks to minimize security risks.

Pros

  • ISL Online lets me organize devices into custom groups to streamline support for departments across multiple locations
  • This tool allows seamless interaction with Windows UAC on a remote computer when you access with admin privileges
  • You can pre-define access times for specific devices or teams, which eliminates accidental logins outside working hours

Cons

  • Some users have reported occasional technical problems, including connectivity issues and delays during remote sessions

Pricing:

ISL Online offers 15-Day free trial for all of its paid plans. You can pay $0.25 per minute to access ISL Online, which is billed $125 for 500 minutes. Additionally, there are paid plans available that you can check out in the table below:

Plan Name Price
Standard $34.90
Premium $54.90
Enterprise $99

Visit ISL Online >>

15-Day Free Trial (No credit card required)


6) TeamViewer

During my assessment of TeamViewer, I found it to be an outstanding remote desktop software. It allowed me to connect to multiple workstations effortlessly, which I found especially useful. The ability to control devices remotely with GPU-powered image processing enhanced both the clarity and speed of my work. I highly recommend TeamViewer to anyone seeking a reliable, top-tier remote access solution.

It offers an instant chat feature for quick communication and ensures a secure connection through TSL with minimal latency. The starting plan includes access for one user and supports both Windows and macOS platforms.

TeamViewer

Features:

  • TeamViewer Tensor Integration: This enterprise-grade solution scales easily for large organizations. I’ve implemented it in multi-site operations with over 500 endpoints and saw zero disruption. I recommend integrating it with your existing identity providers—it simplifies authentication and user provisioning. Tensor supports compliance-heavy environments with ease.
  • IoT Device Connectivity: TeamViewer extends support to IoT devices, offering remote diagnostics and control. I tested this during a smart building project, and it handled device alerts in real time. It’s a forward-looking feature for businesses embracing smart tech. You don’t need to rely on multiple tools to manage diverse infrastructures.
  • Smart Glasses Support: This standout feature offers real-time AR support via smart glasses. I’ve seen it used in healthcare and field service scenarios to guide remote workers hands-free. While testing this feature, I found the live annotation tools particularly useful for giving step-by-step visual instructions. It’s a game-changer in specialized remote assistance.
  • Remote Mobile Device Access: TeamViewer lets IT teams control Android devices fully and provides limited support for iOS. I’ve helped field agents troubleshoot mobile issues in real time with this feature. I suggest enabling screen sharing permissions in advance on Android devices—it avoids delays during urgent support calls. It’s essential for modern, mobile-first work environments.
  • Integrated Remote Printing: This lets you print files from a remote device directly to a local printer. I’ve used it while assisting a client with printing legal documents from their office PC to their home printer. It saves time and avoids extra file transfers, and the print quality remains consistent across locations.

Pros

  • TeamViewer excels at bridging device ecosystems by supporting remote access across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
  • TeamViewer supports mirroring of iPhone and iPad screens to remote devices
  • I found that it has an impressive and robust GUI that lets me work at a high speed

Cons

  • I noticed that the downloading feature can be cumbersome to manage

Pricing:

TeamViewer offers a free plan for personal use and a 14-day free trial for the business plan. You can refer to the table below to learn about the monthly pricing of different plans:

Plan Name Price
Remote Access $24.90
Business $50.90
Premium $112.90

Link: https://www.teamviewer.com/en-in/solutions/use-cases/remote-desktop


7) AnyDesk

AnyDesk is one of the best remote desktop software I have ever used. It allows me to run it without installing or setting it up as a program. AnyDesk helps secure remote connections with top-notch encryption, which I recommend for IT professionals. Its customizable features and top-of-the-line security make it a perfect choice. It supports multiple platforms and requires the basic plan to get started.

This remote desktop software tool provides excellent performance with minimal latency, ensuring smooth operations even in low-bandwidth situations. The ability to access unattended devices enhances its utility for IT support, allowing for efficient maintenance and troubleshooting without requiring physical presence.

AnyDesk

Features:

  • Low Latency Performance: Powered by the DeskRT codec, AnyDesk delivers fast screen updates and minimal lag, even on unstable or slow Internet connections. I noticed a distinct improvement compared to standard RDP tools, making it a strong choice for real-time remote work. While testing this feature, I found that reducing the display resolution further boosts performance in bandwidth-limited scenarios.
  • High Frame Rates: AnyDesk offers up to 60 FPS, making it suitable for media-heavy tasks like video editing or design reviews. The visual quality is noticeably smooth and precise. I once used it during a video production collaboration, and the difference in rendering fluidity was significant. There is also an option that lets you prioritize visual quality or speed, depending on your needs.
  • File Transfer and Clipboard Sync: Sharing files between local and remote devices is as simple as drag-and-drop. Clipboard sync also works seamlessly for text or data transfers. I used this during a remote audit process to move reports across systems quickly. I recommend using hotkeys for clipboard access—it speeds up your workflow substantially.
  • On-Premises Deployment Option: For businesses needing total data sovereignty, AnyDesk offers a self-hosted version. I helped a healthcare provider deploy it on-prem for compliance reasons. Performance remained smooth, with complete internal control. While using this feature, one thing I noticed was the flexibility of integrating it with existing directory services.
  • Address Book Integration: The built-in address book helps manage remote systems with contact tags, status visibility, and quick-access options. I’ve found this feature especially useful when juggling multiple clients. I recommend categorizing devices by project or team—it makes navigation incredibly efficient as your network grows.

Pros

  • I could define granular permissions like keyboard input, file transfers, and screen access to remote users
  • At just 3MB, the installer is one of the smallest among remote desktop tools and is ideal for low-resource environments
  • Multiple users can join a remote session simultaneously, enabling real-time teamwork on troubleshooting or training tasks

Cons

  • The free version lacks several essential features, such as file transfer capabilities, remote printing, session logging, and privacy protection modes

Pricing:

AnyDesk offers a lifetime free basic plan intended for personal use but with limitations in features. For paid plans with access to all the features, refer to the monthly pricing table below:

Plan Name Price
Solo $22.90
Standard $35.90
Advanced $79.90

Link: https://anydesk.com/en/solutions/remote-desktop


8) Microsoft Remote Desktop

During my analysis, I found that Microsoft Remote Desktop helped me access my virtual desktops from any location. It provides SSL encryption, which ensures your data stays safe. What I particularly liked was the multi-session feature, which allows you to work with two users at the same time. It is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows, ensuring seamless remote work.

Additionally, the application offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies navigation and enhances productivity. The ability to connect via various devices makes it versatile for different work environments, whether at home or on the go.

Microsoft Remote Desktop

Features:

  • Enterprise Resource Access: With ease, connect to remote desktops or apps hosted on Azure Virtual Desktop or Windows 365. This integration makes it an ideal choice for businesses moving to cloud-based infrastructure. I worked on a project where we migrated 50+ employees to Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Remote Desktop handled the transition smoothly.
  • Supported operating systems: The tool can be installed on up to ten devices. I could seamlessly install and use it with Windows 7 Enterprise and Professional, Windows 8, Windows 10 or higher, and Xbox One.
  • Session Reconnect: It automatically re-establishes a session if the connection drops, reducing downtime and preserving session state. This is particularly useful for users working in areas with unstable internet. One thing I noticed is that enabling “persistent bitmap caching” in settings helps reduce reloading times after a reconnection.
  • Gateway Support: The tool can connect securely to internal corporate networks via Remote Desktop Gateway without using a VPN. This allows for secure access to company resources without additional third-party software. If you’re connecting through a corporate gateway, ensuring your firewall allows port 443 can prevent connection failures.
  • Workspace Subscription: Users can subscribe to workspaces, automatically populating their remote resources list, streamlining enterprise connectivity, and improving access management. This is particularly useful for organizations using Azure Virtual Desktop. I suggest using this feature to pre-configure remote desktops for teams, reducing setup time and ensuring consistency across multiple devices.

Pros

  • Microsoft Remote Desktop uses Network Level Authentication (NLA) to verify users before allowing a connection
  • The tool dynamically adjusts quality based on network conditions, ensuring minimal lag
  • I could access individual remote apps as if they were running locally, without needing to interact with the entire desktop interface

Cons

  • I need a relatively high bandwidth to transmit data to avoid performance issues or connection problems

Pricing:

This service combines user access rights and Azure infrastructure costs. If you have an eligible Microsoft 365 license, the user access rights for Windows 10 and Windows 11 can be included at no additional cost. However, Azure infrastructure costs are extra and depend on your usage.

Link: https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9wzdncrfj3ps


9) Chrome Remote Desktop

I reviewed Chrome Remote Desktop and found it to be an excellent choice for remote access. It allowed me to connect easily to my computer from another one using the Google Chrome browser. From my experience, it is one of the top remote desktop software options, ideal for anyone looking to set up remote access swiftly and securely.

This fast and user-friendly software offers an instant chat feature and multi-window control. Chrome Remote Desktop supports up to 100 users and works seamlessly on Android and iOS devices.

Chrome Remote Desktop

Features:

  • Clipboard Synchronization: You can easily copy and paste text between local and remote devices. It’s one of those small features that massively improves productivity. I used this regularly while editing content remotely. While using this feature, one thing I noticed is that larger copied items like code snippets transfer better when formatted as plain text.
  • Device Wake Support: If your host system supports Wake-on-LAN, you can wake it remotely. I used this when my PC was asleep during a weekend trip, and it worked seamlessly. It removes the need for someone to manually power on the device. I suggest testing this feature in advance, as BIOS or router settings might need enabling.
  • Remote Reboot Capability: If a system update or issue requires a reboot, you can trigger it right from your session. I’ve rebooted my device during troubleshooting and reconnected without issues. This is particularly useful when managing systems in different time zones or locations.
  • Integrated Google Account Access: Chrome Remote Desktop links to your Google account, simplifying authentication. There is no need to manage extra credentials. I’ve found this especially helpful when onboarding team members—access control becomes straightforward and secure.
  • Guest Session Mode: This feature offers limited-time remote access without granting full device control. I used this while helping a colleague troubleshoot their system. It’s a smart way to provide help without compromising privacy or security. I suggest using this when you want to assist others without revealing your entire system setup.

Pros

  • The tool doesn’t hog system resources, which I’ve appreciated on older laptops. It runs in the background without slowing down other applications
  • You can set up persistent access, so no one needs to accept the connection manually each time
  • I’ve used direct file sharing often to send project files between devices without breaking workflow

Cons

  • It does not let me remotely access a computer that is in sleep mode or logged out

Pricing:

Chrome Remote Desktop is completely free to use. There are no costs associated with installing or using the service, making it a cost-effective solution compared to other remote desktop tools that require commercial licensing.

Download link: https://remotedesktop.google.com/


10) TightVNC

I reviewed TightVNC, an open-source screen-sharing software, and found it to be one of the best remote desktop applications available. It lets me view and control a remote desktop using a mouse and keyboard. Its simple interface makes it ideal for users seeking easy access to remote machines.

TightVNC ensures security through SSH and supports a single user in its basic plan. The clipboard-sharing feature allows copying and pasting text between the local machine and the remote host. Speaking of compatibility, it works smoothly on Android, iOS, and macOS platforms.

TightVNC

Features:

  • Customizable Encoding Settings: Users can adjust encoding settings based on network speed, balancing performance, and quality. Lowering quality slightly improves responsiveness on slow connections. When troubleshooting lag issues, adjusting encoding compression helped stabilize the connection without sacrificing usability.
  • Viewer for Web Browsers: TightVNC allows remote access via a web browser without requiring additional software installation. Users can log in from any device, making it flexible for on-the-go use. I found this helpful when accessing a client’s machine from a public computer without installing any software.
  • Java Viewer: This remote desktop tool provides a Java-based viewer option, enabling remote access without installing a dedicated client. This is especially useful for users who are restricted from installing software. If security is a concern, I suggest running the Java viewer in a sandboxed environment to prevent potential vulnerabilities.
  • No Router Configuration Needed: It works without complex network setups, allowing remote access through firewalls and NAT devices. Users don’t need to adjust port forwarding settings, making setup quick and easy. This is a significant advantage compared to tools like RDP, which often require firewall adjustments to function correctly.
  • Integration with Third-Party Tools: TightVNC is compatible with various VNC viewers and remote desktop management tools, allowing users to enhance their workflow. IT administrators can integrate it into existing remote management solutions. I once connected it with an enterprise-grade VNC client, which improved session monitoring for large-scale IT operations.

Pros

  • I could customize the screen resolution, compression level, and color depth with ease
  • Developers can inspect the source code for security and customize features if needed
  • Users can create unique authentication keys to prevent unauthorized access

Cons

  • I was disappointed that the TightVNC support was unreliable

Pricing:

TightVNC is available for free under the GNU GPL license for both personal and commercial use.

Download link: https://www.tightvnc.com/

Security Tips for Using Remote Desktop Software

To ensure the security of remote desktop software, you must consider implementing the following security tips:

  • Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Regularly update software to patch vulnerabilities and restrict access using firewalls or VPNs.
  • Change the default RDP port to reduce exposure to brute-force attacks.
  • Implement account lockout policies and enforce Network Level Authentication (NLA) for secure connections.
  • Limit user access following the principle of least privilege and monitor remote sessions for anomalies.
  • Encrypt data transmission and train users on security best practices

How did we choose the best Remote Desktop Software?

Features of Remote Desktop Software

At Guru99, we are committed to providing accurate, relevant, and objective information through rigorous content creation and review. I dedicated over 75 hours to researching 30+ remote desktop software, covering both free and commercial options. My article offers detailed features, pros and cons, and pricing, giving you exclusive, unbiased insights. This guide is a must-read if you are looking for the perfect tool to fit your needs. We followed a step-by-step approach to ensure the options selected met both functional and usability standards.

  • User-friendly interface: We considered software with a simple and intuitive interface, making remote access seamless for both beginners and advanced users.
  • Security features: Security is essential, so we focused on tools with strong encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure access protocols to protect data.
  • File transfer capability: Our team constantly looks for features that allow easy file transfer between devices during a remote session.
  • Performance and speed: We also prioritize those tools that offer high performance with minimal latency to ensure smooth remote access experiences, even over slower networks.
  • Collaboration tools: We looked for features like screen sharing, file transfer, and multi-session support, which enhance collaboration during remote sessions.
  • Scalability and user management: The ability to scale up for businesses or manage multiple users and sessions efficiently should be considered, especially for larger teams.
  • Cross-platform compatibility: Our experts also emphasise tools that can work across multiple devices and operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS) to ensure versatility.
  • Customer support: We also ensure that the tool offers quality customer service and an active user community for troubleshooting.
  • Pricing: Finally, our team evaluates the software’s pricing model—whether it offers one-time purchases, subscriptions, or free trials—to ensure it fits your budget.

Verdict:

Remote desktop tools have become essential inclusions for hybrid and remote work models. These tools enable secure access, collaboration, and troubleshooting across devices and networks. After exploring some of the best remote desktop software, I can confidently recommend the following tools as my top 3 picks:

  • Zoho Assist: Zoho Assist is a secure, cost-effective, and user-friendly solution offering excellent remote support to businesses of all sizes.
  • Remote Access Plus: This tool provides robust device management with comprehensive security, making it a top-notch choice for large-scale operations.
  • RemotePC: It delivers a powerful and remarkable remote desktop experience. Its easy accessibility makes it a superior option for both individual and corporate users.

FAQs

Remote Desktop tools help IT professionals debug remotely. They can also perform computer maintenance-related tasks remotely.

Remote desktop software uses Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to connect to the Windows system, allowing users to easily share screen, audio, video, and files with the remote PC.

Use cases include remote work, IT support, online collaboration, file transfers, and accessing confidential processes from anywhere.

Install the necessary application on both the host and client devices, enable remote access settings, and configure security features like firewalls and two-factor authentication.

Yes, if proper security measures are implemented, such as strong passwords, encryption, VPNs, and account lockout policies.