Remote Desktop Software, also known as Remote Access Software as well as remote control programs lets you remote control a PC from another. When we say remote control, we really mean the remote controller–you can control the keyboard and mouse and make use of the computer you’ve connected to exactly like your personal.
Generally speaking, remote accessing computers requires some software is installed on the machine that you’d like to connect to, referred to as”the host. Another device or computer that has the correct credentials, referred to as”the client communicates with the host and is able to control it.
The best remote access software that is listed below needs nothing more than a couple of clicks to begin. There is no special computer expertise is needed.
Remote Utilities
Remote Utilities is a free remote access application that comes with amazing features. It is a program that pairs two remote computers with one Internet identification number. Manage up to 10 computers using this program.
Host Side
Download Host on your Windows PC to gain the ability to access it permanently. You can also start Agent which offers recurrent support for your computer without installing anything. It is even able to be launched using a flash drive.
The host computer gets the Internet ID that a client makes use of to establish a connection.
Client-Side
The viewer is a program that connects to the host or agent software. The viewer program is connected to the agent or host software.
Download Viewer as a stand-alone application or from its host and viewer combination file. You can download a portable copy of the Viewer if you prefer to not install any software.
The connection of the Viewer with the Agent or Host does not require any router modifications such as port forwarding. This makes setting up the connection very simple. The client only has to input an Internet ID number and password.
Client applications are also available that are available for download at no cost on behalf of iOS as well as Android users.
Different modules can be accessed by the viewer, meaning you can connect to a computer remotely without having to view the screen. Screen-viewing is certainly Remote Utilities The main feature.
Here are a few of the modules. Remote Utilities supports Remote task management system and file transfer controlling power to control remote rebooting, or WOL Remote terminal (access to Command Prompt) remote launcher for files, system information manager text chat, remote access to the registry, remote access, as well as remote webcam access.
Alongside these functions remote printing, as well as watching multiple monitors are also available.
However, setting up Remote Utilities can be confusing on the host computer as there are many different choices.
Remote Utilities can be installed on Windows 11, 10, 8 7 Vista or XP in addition to Windows Server 2019, 2016 2012, 2008, and 2003. There’s also a version available for Linux and macOS however both are still in beta and won’t work like the Windows version.
DWService
DWService is a completely free and open-source program that makes remote access easier. It is installed by the host or runs the program temporarily while the client is logged in using any web browser to run commands, monitor the screen, or manage folders and files.
Host Side
There are two choices for the host to choose from: install the DWAgent and run it on demand single-time access (great for technical assistance) or install it to provide continuous remote access (ideal for your personal computer).
If you select the run option rather than installing, you’ll be given a user ID and password that the user must use to access the computer. In other cases, you must enter the code given by the client to ensure that they have a permanent connection to host computers.
Client-Side
The client can do this easily when the host is using the option to request. Connect to the host using the link below, and then enter the password and code which appears in the host’s DWAgent window. That’s it!
If the host has installed this program on its own, then the installation procedure can be a bit more complicated. Create a user account by clicking following the hyperlink (it’s completely free) Then, add an agent to your existing account. Provide the code for the server during installation.
DWService includes a range of tools. Contrary to some remote access applications it doesn’t need to launch the screen sharing software to send or receive files or execute commands.
The full list of applications that are available to you as a client includes Files and folders, text editor, log watch Resources Screen as well as Shell. You can create all kinds of text-based documents; navigate through your file systems in order to create edit or delete files; add or download data from and to the host. They also let you execute Command Prompt commands; view the basic information about your system, shut down processes, and begin or shut down services.
This DWAgent tool for hosts is compatible with different operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Google Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop is an extension of Google’s Chrome browser that allows you to create a PC for remote access.
Host Side
The way it works is to install the extension in order to obtain a random number that you can then share with another person for support on a regular basis ( get that code here) or you can get the PIN you will utilize to access the computer at any time using your personal Google account.
Client-Side
In order to connect with the host browser, sign in to the Chrome Remote Desktop using a different web application using your Google credentials or an access code that is created by host computers.
Since you’re logged in, you’ll be able to find your other PC name. From there you’ll be able to select it to start with the session remotely.
There’s not a chat feature like the ones you find in similar programs, however, it’s extremely easy to set up and allows you to access your PC (or any other computer) at any time using your internet browser.
Furthermore, you can remotely access the computer even when the user isn’t using Chrome open, or when they’re completely unlogged out of their account.
Since it runs completely within Chrome It is compatible in conjunction with every operating system that runs Chrome, which includes Windows, Mac, Linux as well as Chromebooks.
Getscreen.me
If you’re looking for a basic tool that has many excellent features, look into the remote access program Getscreen.me. If you’re looking to swiftly gain access to a computer without having to mess with passwords or installation it’s the tool you’re looking for.
The program supports file sharing, an integrated Chat window and buttons to perform standard keys (e.g. switching users to Run, click Run, and start File Explorer), a system information viewer, a full-screen mode, audio calling, and the ability to share your clipboard.
Host Side
The computer to which it will be connected needs to download and run the application. Installing is not required however, it is fully installed if the computer needs to be connected to the internet permanently.
There are two options to connect your client. The first is to sign in to the user account using the email address and password. This is which is a good option for people who will be logging into the computer frequently.
Another way to use Getscreen.me is to launch the program and send the link out to others. In this type of session, you provide access to the URL will be granted access to your computer without the need for an account password. This is ideal for quick technical assistance, but be aware that the duration of the connection is restricted when using the program in this way.
The host decides if some permissions are permitted for instance, if the user is able to control the keyboard or mouse or record sound and even make audio calls.
Client-Side
There are a few methods to access remotely from a computer. If you’ve logged in to your host account through the host program, you are granted permanent access, which means that you are able to visit the following link to sign into the same account using an internet browser to connect to the remote computer.
Another method is if the host hasn’t logged into the account. The host could provide a URL you can access via your device and gain an access point to the remote computer without requiring your account details.
Free users face certain limitations that may be removed only when you pay. For instance you can only have two computers be connected to your account simultaneously It is also not possible to record the connection, use Wake-on LAN or turn off the remote screen during the session.
It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux It works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android. Controls can be sent on any device using an internet browser.
Windows Remote Desktop
Windows Remote Desktop is the remote access program that is integrated in Windows Remote Desktop, which is part of the Windows operating system. There is no additional download required to utilize the program.
Host Side
To allow connections to computers running Windows Remote Desktop, you have to go into your Windows System Properties Settings (accessible through the Settings (W11) or Control Panel) and enable remote connections through a specific Windows user.
It is possible that you just need to set up your router to allow port forwarding to allow another computer to connect with it via the network, but it’s generally not too much of a task to accomplish.
Client-Side
The computer that wants to be connected to the host is required to open the running Remote Desktop Connection software and enter the IP address of the host machine.
Many of the other programs included in this list come with functions similar to those Windows Remote Desktop doesn’t, however using remote access is believed to provide the easiest and easy method of controlling the keyboard and mouse of the remote Windows PC.
After you’ve set everything up and working, you can upload files and print on local printers or listen to audio from an external PC, or transfer clipboard content.
Remote Desktop Access
Windows Remote Desktop can be utilized on Windows 11, 10, 8 7, Vista, and XP.
But, even though the various versions of Windows can be connected to other computers with an incoming connection, However, only a few Windows versions can function as hosts (i.e. accept remote access requests from incoming).
If you’re running a home premium version or lower the computer will only function as a client, and isn’t able to be accessed remotely (but it is still able to connect to another computer via remote).
Remote access to the computer is restricted to Enterprise, Professional Enterprise, and Ultimate versions of Windows. With those versions, other users are able to remote into computers in the same manner as previously described.
A different thing to be aware of should be noted that Remote Desktop will kick a user out of the system if they’re connected to their account remotely. This is a vastly different thing from the other programs on this list. All of them can remotely connect to a user’s account even if the user is working on the computer.
UltraVNC
UltraVNC is a little like Remote Utilities in that the viewer, as well as viewers, are installed on 2 different computers and the viewer can be used to control the server.
Host Side
When you install, you’re asked if you want to set up either the Viewer, Server, Viewer, or both. The Server must be installed on the computer you want for it to be connected to.
It is possible to set up the Server as a system service to ensure that it is always in operation. This is the most efficient solution to be able to connect to it via your client program.
Client-Side
To establish a connection to your Server it is necessary to download Viewerportion. Viewerportion during the setup.
After enabling port forwarding in your router and you’ll be in a position to connect to the host system anyplace connected to the internet, either using a smartphone that can support VNC connections, a computer that has the Viewer installed, or even an internet browser. All you require is the server’s IP address to establish the connection.
UltraVNC supports the transfer of files as well as text chat and video clipboard sharing and even connect and boot to the server using Safe Mode.
The download page can be slightly confusing. You must first choose the most current version of software then select one of the 64 or 32-bit installation files that is compatible with the version you have selected for Windows.
Windows 11 10, 10, 8, and 7 users are able to download and run the most recent version of the software. Older Windows versions are able to install older versions of the program.
Distant Desktop
It’s another mobile remote access program. It’s completely free for commercial and private usage, which is hard to come across.
Host Side
The computer-controlled by the client has to share their user ID and password with the computer that is not controlled by the client.
Client-Side
For the machine that will perform the remote access, click Connect and enter the host’s ID and password. The tabs on the upper right of your program allow you to connect to multiple networks at the same time.
Once connected to the other computer you’ll be able to send files between them and use text messages or your voice. Automatically generated passwords will be generated however, you may also select your own password to help remember them.
The program works to Windows 11, 10, 8, Vista, and 7 It also supports Windows Server 2008, 2003, and 2000. Additionally, there’s an Android app that functions as either a client or host.
AnyDesk
AnyDesk is a remote desktop application that can be run remotely or installed as a normal application.
Host Side
Start it on the computer you’d like to connect to, and then record the 9-digit code, or a custom alias, when one is already installed.
Once the client is connected to the host, they is asked to permit or deny the connection. It can also manage the permissions granted, such as allowing audio, clipboard usage, and also the ability to block the host’s control of the keyboard and mouse.
Client-Side
On a different computer, open AnyDesk and then type in your host’s Remote Desk number or alias on the Remote Address section of the program and then wait until your host acknowledges the connection. You can also connect to your host via the web client of AnyDesk.
If an unattended access connection is set in place, then the user won’t have to wait around for the host to approve the connection.
The program updates itself automatically and allows you to be in full-screen mode, creating an equilibrium between the quality and speed of the connection. It will transfer audio and files and sync the clipboard. capture the session remotely, execute keyboard shortcuts, capture photos of the remote system, and even restart the host system.
It’s compatible with macOS, Linux, and Windows 11, 10, 8 7 Vista as well as XP. The app is also available to iOS, Android, Chrome OS, FreeBSD, and Raspberry Pi.
AeroAdmin
AeroAdmin is perhaps the most simple program to utilize for remote access that is free. There aren’t any options that you need to make, and everything is fast and clear, which is ideal for quick assistance.
Host Side
Simply open the portable application and connect your IP address, or the provided ID with another person. The client’s system knows which host to join.
Client-Side
The client’s PC only needs to be running the exact application and input your ID and IP addresses into the program. You can select the View Only option instead of Remote Control prior to connecting and then select the Connect option when you want to connect remote controls.
If the host computer is able to confirm the connection, you are able to start controlling the computer as well as transfer clipboard text.
It’s fantastic that AeroAdmin is free for personal and commercial use however, it’s a shame that there’s no chat function that is included as well as it’s terrible that you’re unable to transfer files.
Another consideration that should be mentioned is that although the program is totally gratis, it does limit the number of hours you are able to utilize it in a month..
It can be run on 32-bit as well as 64-bit versions of Windows 11, 10, 8 7, and XP.
The program updates itself automatically and allows you to be in full-screen mode, creating an equilibrium between the quality and speed of the connection. It will transfer audio and files and sync the clipboard. capture the session remotely, execute keyboard shortcuts, capture photos of the remote system, and even restart the host system.
It’s compatible with macOS, Linux, and Windows 11, 10, 8 7 Vista as well as XP. The app is also available to iOS, Android, Chrome OS, FreeBSD, and Raspberry Pi.
This remote access software for free is ideal for access on demand. The other person and you can download and begin using Iperius Remote in just a couple of minutes.
The interface of the program is simple and easy to comprehend. When you connect remotely, you can use an email using the keystroke Ctrl+Alt+Del shortcut, choose the display to display, then switch to full-screen mode, and then launch the chat or file transfer tool.
If you’d like to have greater control, switch on the settings to allow permanent access, a personalized password, proxy, etc.
Operating systems supported include 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP and Windows Server 2016, 2012, and 2008 as well as 2003. Additionally, there’s an app for Android as well as iOS.
Zoho Assist
Zoho Assist is a different remote access software that comes with an affordable version for commercial and personal use. It allows you to transfer files and screens and even chat with the other user by using a unique login ID as well as a password.
Host Side
The host should choose the Share My Screen option in the Zoho Assist website, and then begin now to obtain an ID for the session and a password to share with the client. It is possible to copy an ID or password by hand and send a unique URL to clients, or simply provide their email address to get the information about your connection sent to them.
The host should also install a small program to allow the client remote access and manage the computer. Click the Download button to save ZA_Connect.to your computer and then launch it to install it.
Client-Side
After the host computer is completely set up and ready to go, the client will need to go to the Join Screen Sharing Session page and enter the ID and password for the client’s computer.
If the host shared the information via email or even the URL, then obviously the client could make use of the information to connect to the host.
In default, clients don’t have full control rights, but only viewing rights. To alter this, the client has to navigate to the session and then Demand Control then wait until the host clicks Yes.
Other features in the program include clipboard sharing as well as a pause button for the host, as well as an annotation tool that allows clients and hosts are able to draw directly on the screen.
It’s claimed to work with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, and Windows Server 2019 through 2003.
Quick Assist
The no-cost Quick Assist remote access program is simple to learn and doesn’t require downloading because it’s built into Windows 11 and 10. Look for it on the Start menu or navigate to through the Windows Accessories Start menu to launch the application.
Host Side
In the text box, type the 6-digit code the computer of the client-generated, then click on the Share screen. Once the client has completed their part, it is your responsibility to verify that they be connected to the computer prior to when the connection is established.
Client-Side
Select Help another person and then sign into the Microsoft account. The security code is given to the host and selects Full command or View screen for remote access to their PC.
Once the client is connected to the host they can switch the monitor they control, note direct on-screen reboot the computer, and then start Task Manager.
LiteManager
LiteManager is strikingly like Remote Utilities, explained above. But, unlike Remote Utilities which is able to control just 10 computers, this program allows as many as 30 slot for storage or connecting remote PCs as well as a host of helpful features.
Host Side
The computer that must be accessible should be installed with the LiteManager Pro– Server.msi program (it’s free) and is included inside the Zip file.
There are a variety of ways to ensure that a connection is established for the hosting computer. This could be done by an IP address or computer’s name, or ID.
The easiest method to set up this is to right-click on the server program within the notification area of the taskbar. select Connect via ID delete the content that are already in place, and then click Connected to create a brand new ID.
Client-Side
The second program, called Viewer is downloaded to allow users to establish a connection to the host computer. After your host’s computer created an identification number, clients need to use the Connect by ID option on the Connection menu to establish a remote connection with that computer.
When connected to the server, it will be able to accomplish a myriad of things as with Remote Utilities, such as working with multiple monitors, transferring files in silence as well as taking full control or read-only rights to the other PC, using an application that is remote to launch files and applications remotely, record sound or edit the registry, set up a demonstration, secure the other’s screen and keyboard, and chat with text messages.
There’s another QuickSupport option that is a portable viewer and server program that allows you to connect much faster as compared to the method above.
We have tested LiteManager on Windows 10, but it is also able to work with Windows 11, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. The program is compatible with macOS as well as Linux as well.
ShowMyPC
ShowMyPC can be used on a portable device and is similar to a few of these programs, however, it requires the use of a password to establish connections instead of the IP address.
Host Side
Use the ShowMyPC ShowMyPC program on your PC and then click Show My Computer to receive an ID number that is unique, also known as Share Password. Share Password.
This ID is the one you need to share with other users in order to enable them to join the server.
Client-Side
Run the same program on a different computer and then enter the ID of the host application to establish connections. The user can also enter the ID in the ShowMyPC website (in the “View PC” box) and launch the Java application in their browser.
There are other options that aren’t included in UltraVNC such as webcam sharing through web browsers as well as scheduled meetings that permit users to connect to your computer via a personal website link. This will launch a Java application called ShowMyPC.
Clients are only able to send a certain amount of keyboard shortcuts host computer.
It runs on any version of Windows.
DesktopNow
DesktopNow is a no-cost remote access software that comes from NCH Software. After forwarding the correct port number to your router, and then signing to create an account for free that allows you to access your PC from any device using the internet using a browser.
Host Side
The computer to be used for remote access must be equipped with an installation of the DesktopNow application installed.
When the program first launched, your email address as well as the password must be entered to allow you to utilize those same credentials for the connection.
The host computer may set up its router so that it forwards the correct port numbers to the host computer. Or, choose cloud access at the time of the installation process to create an instant connection to the server without the need for complex forwarding.
It’s probably better for the majority of people to go with the direct cloud access method in order to avoid issues when port forwarding is involved.
Client-Side
The client has to connect to the host via an internet browser. When the router has been set to route the port number through it, then the user will utilize the host’s IP address in order to join. When cloud-based access was enabled then a specific link should have been assigned to the host you would connect to.
DesktopNow comes with a wonderful feature to share files. It allows you to download shared files remotely using an easy-to-use file viewer.
There’s no specific application for mobile devices, which means trying to control and view computers from a mobile phone or tablet isn’t easy. But, the site is designed for phones with mobiles and tablets, which means that viewing shared files is simple.
Versions of 64-bit versions that are part of Windows can be used. It includes Windows 11, 10, 8 7, Vista, and XP.
BeamYourScreen
Another accessible and free remote access software is BeamYourScreen. This program functions as one of the others on this list, but the presenter receives an ID number which they need to give to a different user in order to connect to the screen of the presenter.
Host Side
Hosts are also known as organizers. Therefore, the program known as BeamYourScreen for organizers (Portable) is the preferred method that the host computer should employ to allow remote connections. It’s easy and quick to share your screen, without needing to install any software.
There’s also a version that can be installed, namely BeamYourScreen for organizers (Installation).
Simply click to click the start session button to start opening your computer to connect. You’ll receive the session number to be able to share with someone before you are able to be connected to your host.
Client-Side
Clients are also able to install the portable version or the one that can be installed There’s also a separate application named BeamYourScreen for participants that is a small executable file that is launched like the portable version for organizers.
Enter the host’s session ID into the Session section of the program to join the session.
Once connected, you are able to control the screen, transfer clipboard files and text, and communicate via text.
The thing that makes the software is that it can share your ID information with more than one person so that all users can participate and watch the screen of the presenter. It even has BeamYourScreen, the BeamYourScreen web-based viewer that lets users see both screens without needing to install any software.
It is compatible with the latest versions of Windows It also works with Windows Server 2008 and 2003, Mac, and Linux.
Aren’t Other Cost-Free Remote Access Programs?
There are alternatives for you, such as TeamViewer which is hugely well-known. However, a lot of users have complained about it, believing that they’re employing it in a commercial environment, and have to pay for continued use of the software.
LogMeIn’s free service, LogMeIn Free, is no longer in use. It was one of the most well-known free remote access solutions ever available, so it’s regrettable that it was taken away.
