9 BEST Remote Desktop Software (2025)

Best Remote Desktop Software

Remote administration tools help IT professionals to debug remotely. You can perform computer maintenance related tasks remotely. There are a plethora of remote software tools in the market and selecting one for your project could be a challenge.

#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

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.

Best Free Remote Desktop Software Applications

Name File Sharing Free Trial Link
Zoho Assist
Zoho Assist
Yes 15-day free trial Learn More
ManageEngine Remote Access Plus
ManageEngine Remote Access Plus
Yes 30-day free trial Learn More
RemotePC
RemotePC
Yes 7-day free trial Learn More
ISL Online
ISL Online
Yes 15-day free trial Learn More
TeamViewer
TeamViewer
Yes 14-Days free Trial Learn More

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 access both Android and iOS devices effortlessly, and in my opinion, 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)
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Features:

  • Remote session features: I could initiate or schedule remote support sessions whenever needed. It allowed me to access, manage, conference, voice, and video chat, as well as reboot and reconnect.
  • Screen sharing: It lets you schedule screen-sharing sessions, helps you swap screens, allows annotation, and supports mobile devices.
  • Unattended remote access: The unattended remote access facility provided me with bulk deployment and session recording options. It also offered facilities like Wake on LAN, diagnostic tools, session confirmation, and remote power button options.
  • Supported platforms: It is available on all major platforms, including Windows, Raspberry Pi, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • I noticed it is user Account Control compatible, and it handled proxies smoothly
  • Supports multi-factor authentication to eliminate potential unwanted access to your devices
  • Remotely switch on your machines with just one click

Cons

  • I struggled with the complexity of the configuration

Pricing:

  • Price: Plans start at $10 for 1 technician/month billed annually. 15% Discount on yearly payments
  • Free Trial: 15-day free trial. No credit card is required

Visit Zoho Assist >>

15-Day Free Trial (No Credit Card Required)


2) ManageEngine 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. The instant communication tools, including voice, video, and text, made resolving issues faster. The tool also provides SSL encryption, which ensures the sessions remain secure. Its compatibility with multiple operating systems and language support is ideal for large organizations.

#2
ManageEngine 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)
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Features:

  • Remote Access: With unattended remote access, I could access endpoints from anywhere, anytime, and connect to remote computers. It also includes features like Waking computers on LAN, kick-starting troubleshooting processes, and conferences.
  • Switch Monitors: I could easily manage multiple monitors connected to client computers, which helped me navigate between tasks quickly and effectively.
  • Advanced features: This remote access app allows you to perform administrative operations using Quick Launch. I could diagnose computers without hindering productivity and access Command Prompt using a system account.
  • Save cost: It helps you cut down production costs by turning off computers with no active users.

Pros

  • I liked that it offers strong security features
  • A good tool for efficient troubleshooting tasks
  • Password-protected backups ensure safe data storage

Cons

  • Require high bandwidth connections for stable and fast remote access

Pricing:

  • Price: Standard plans start at $75 for 25 Computers and 5 Technicians annual subscription
  • Free Trial: 30-day free trial. No credit card is required

Visit ManageEngine

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.

#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)
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Features:

  • Always on remote access: It lets me configure my computer for full control over remote access, chat, and session recording and has conference features.
  • Remote file access: RemotePC supports file transfers and helped me search, upload, and download files in remote sessions.
  • Remote reboot: I could easily reboot the computers in safe or normal mode through the RemotePC application or web dashboard.
  • Platform independent: This app allows you to connect remotely to a computer from popular operating systems and mobile devices, including iPad, iPhone, and other Android devices.

Pros

  • Provides robust 256-bit encryption for enhanced security
  • I found that it offers affordable pricing options, making it an excellent choice
  • Supports multiple platforms, ensuring cross-device compatibility

Cons

  • Require high bandwidth connections

Pricing:

  • Price: Plans start at Plans start at $22.12 per year
  • Free Trial: 7-day free trial (No credit card required)

Visit RemotePC >>

7-Day Free Trial (No Credit Card Required)


4) 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. As per my observation, unlike Teamviewer, it is intended for professional use only. ISL Online extends its offerings to include a self-hosted license, thus permitting you to install the software on your server. This option is particularly appealing to those with stringent privacy and security requirements.

#4
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:

  • Fast remote access: It helped me offer quick help to customers or access computers when no one’s there. You can transfer files, support multiple screens, record sessions, and invite another person to join in.
  • 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.
  • Admin features: This feature gave me easy access to any computer with admin rights. Therefore, I could manage as many remote computers as required.
  • Customization and deployment: You can make the software look and feel like it’s part of your organization by customizing it to match your brand. It leys you choose between cloud-based or on-premise setups, depending on what works best for you.
  • Unlimited support: The license doesn’t cap how many devices or users you can support, thus giving you lots of flexibility.

Pros

  • It’s easy to use, no training is required
  • This tool allows seamless interaction with Windows UAC on a remote computer when you access with admin privileges
  • I liked how the customer support was helpful and quick to respond

Cons

  • I was disappointed to see issues related to remote printing
  • Updates to the app could be more visible

Pricing:

  • Price: Plans start at Plans start at $34.90 per month
  • Free Trial: 15-day free trial (No credit card required)

Visit ISL Online >>

15-Day Free Trial (No credit card required)


5) 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.

#5
TeamViewer
  • Security: AES 256 Encryption, TLS, SRP, etc.
  • Data Transfer: Yes
  • Special features: Easy screen sharing with quality display
  • Apps: Android, iOS, mac, linux
  • Free trial: 14-Days Free Trial (No Credit Card Required)
Visit TeamViewer

Features:

  • Access control: It allowed me to pass the control from one person to another. I could also include multiple parties in the connection.
  • Advanced features: This remote desktop software solution for Windows supports augmented reality. I noticed that it allows in-session automation and multi-user support sessions.
  • Drag and drop: This remote control software made it easy for me to drag and drop files from one computer to another.
  • Session Recording: I could effortlessly record sessions, which is perfect for ensuring quality control and helping with training purposes.

Pros

  • It provides a QuickSteps toolbar for time-saving shortcuts
  • 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:

  • Price: Plans start at $24.90 per month/billed yearly. Access up to 3 unattended devices
  • Free Trial: Free for personal use. 14 days free trial for business plan

Visit TeamViewer >>

14-Days Free Trial


6) AnyDesk

AnyDesk is one of the best remote desktop software I have ever checked out. It allowed me to run it without installation or setting it up as a program. AnyDesk helps secure remote connections with top-notch encryption, which I recommend for those in IT. The customizable features and top-of-line security makes it a perfect choice. It supports multiple platforms, and requires the basic plan to get started.

#6
AnyDesk
  • Security: Military-grade TLS 1.2 security
  • Data Transfer: Yes
  • Special features: Flexibility & Customization
  • Apps: Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, Raspberry PI
  • Free trial: Lifetime Free Basic Plan
Learn More

Features:

  • File transfer: This remote access software for Windows supports audio and video file transfer. It helped me exchange texts and screenshots and carry out remote printing.
  • Advanced features: Its connections can be configured to favor quality or speed and let me automatically update to new software versions.
  • Remote session features: This RDP software helped me to record the remote session, and it includes conference features.
  • Unattended access: I could easily secure my entry by setting up a password, allowing me to access my devices when needed, even when no one is around.
  • Wake on LAN: This feature allowed me to turn on devices in sleep mode. You can wake up devices using any other device in the same network, using “Magic Packet.”

Pros

  • An easy-to-use & Small size installation file
  • I noticed the UI was highly responsive, which gave me a smooth user experience
  • The mobile app can connect to computers

Cons

  • I found the lack of comprehensive support frustrating when trying to resolve issues

Pricing:

  • Price: Plans start at $22.90 per month (billed annually)
  • Free Trial: Lifetime Free Basic Plan

Visit AnyDesk >>

Lifetime Free Basic Plan


7) 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.

Microsoft Remote Desktop

Features:

  • Remote Access: I could easily access machines remotely through a remote desktop gateway, ensuring a secure connection that was essential for my work.
  • 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.
  • Remote session features: This software has easy screen capture, viewing, and cross-platform connectivity. It lets me access my work on my personal computer anytime, anywhere.
  • Secure connection: It provides advanced encryption and prevents data interception and unauthorized access.

Pros

  • An easy-to-use UI is ideal for beginners
  • Get access to your clipboard, microphones, and various other devices
  • It allowed me to quickly share files across various devices without any hassle

Cons

  • I was disappointed by the lack of advanced features

Pricing:

  • Price: Free tool built into most versions of Windows

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


8) Chrome Remote Desktop

I reviewed Chrome Remote Desktop and found it to be an excellent choice for remote access. It allowed me to easily connect 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 software is fast and user-friendly, offering 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:

  • Remote Access: It lets me connect remotely to the computer even when the user isn’t logged in. This remote application also offers multi-monitor support.
  • Access from any device: I was able to access sessions easily using a computer, tablet, or smartphone, thanks to its effective support for unattended and on-demand remote access.
  • Security: Built on Google’s infrastructure, it uses the latest open web technologies, such as WRTC.
  • Screen share: This free remote access software allows you to remote into the computer via an app and collaborate in real time using its screen-sharing capability.

Pros

  • It can handle computer crashes and different device issues
  • This tool is easy to set up and doesn’t require you to be tech-savvy
  • I noticed that the interface is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly

Cons

  • The file transfer feature can be a little clumsy

Pricing:

  • Price: Lifetime Free Remote Desktop Tool

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


9) Ammyy

Ammyy Admin is a free remote desktop software that I thoroughly reviewed. It is highly useful for setting up remote offices and providing reliable remote support. I found it easy to configure the tool to meet my work needs, and it is also an excellent option for distance education.

This remote access tool uses an SSL Hybrid encryption algorithm (AES+RSA) to ensure security. It allows file transfers of text, music, or photo files, and you can even share files live with family or friends from a remote PC. It works smoothly with Windows and Linux platforms.

Ammyy

Features:

  • Remote Access: This application helped me access devices without anyone being present on the client’s side. It supports restart, changing users, login, logout, and more. You also get session recording functionality and conference features.
  • Security: It is one of the best TeamViewer alternatives that offered me the highest level of data transfer security. It supports HTTP proxy and has security algorithms like RSA and AES.
  • Transparent firewalls: This tool offers transparent firewalls. Thus, it works behind NAT without port mapping and doesn’t require extra configurations.
  • Microsoft Windows compatibility: It provides full Microsoft Windows compatibility as it supports Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8, Windows Server 2000/2003/2008, and 32-bit and 64-bit.

Pros

  • I found it helpful that it has a built-in voice chat and file manager
  • Ammy’s remote desktop gets ready to use after downloading and doesn’t require any installation
  • It is easy to use and lightweight to download

Cons

  • I found its graphics lacking and wished it had been better

Download link: http://www.ammyy.com/en/


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 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:

  • Remote Access: This remote desktop application allowed me to solve problems with my computers from anywhere. It ensures that nothing goes wrong on your network when you are away.
  • Screensharing: I could share a screen, which allowed me to view and monitor the remote device in real time. This is important for effective collaboration and control.
  • File sharing: It lets me transfer files between your remote and local computers. This tool also supports remote printing, thus, you can print files and documents located in a remote device locally.
  • Other features: Its other features include session recording, conference, password authentication, and encrypted remote access.

Pros

  • I could customize the screen resolution, compression level, and color depth with ease
  • TightVNC supports multiple concurrent connections
  • It includes a built-in chat feature for easy communication

Cons

  • I was disappointed that the TightVNC support was unreliable

Pricing:

  • Price: Free and Open Source remote desktop software

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

What are Remote Access Tools?

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

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: Look for features that allow easy transfer of files between devices during a remote session.
  • Performance and speed: Tools that offered high performance with minimal latency were prioritized 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: The ability to work across multiple devices and operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS) was a key factor in ensuring versatility.
  • Customer support: Quality customer service and an active user community were essential to ensure timely assistance and troubleshooting.
  • Pricing: Finally, evaluate the software’s pricing model—whether it offers one-time purchases, subscriptions, or free trials—to ensure it fits your budget.

Verdict:

After exploring some of the greatest remote desktop software, I can confidently recommend these tools based on their capabilities. Here is my verdict.

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