Looking for a fast and free remote desktop tool? We’ve got you covered with the best remote desktop applications for all your troubleshooting and management needs.
Whether you’re working from home, or need to troubleshoot a PC from across the country, having a reliable and secure remote desktop application will make your job undoubtedly easier. You’re going to want a tool that is easy to install, has intuitive features, and is secure to use in your network.
Here is our list of the best remote desktop tools:
- N-able Take Control EDITOR’S CHOICE This cloud-based system provides technicians access from any device, even from a mobile through the Take Control app. The technician gets remote control over the target endpoint and that computer can be running Windows, macOS, or Linux. Start a 14-day free trial.
- SolarWinds Dameware (FREE TRIAL) The remote desktop tool built specifically for larger companies and MSPs. Features troubleshooting tools, remote monitoring, and cross-platform remote access. Start a 14-day free trial.
- ManageEngine Remote Desktop Plus (FREE TRIAL) This comprehensive remote access package is available for Windows Server or as a SaaS package, and it is offered for free to small businesses. Start a 30-day free trial.
- ConnectWise Control Built for MSPs and is part of the ConnectWise suite. Simple remote capabilities with the option to add automation, scripting, and management with ConnectWise Automate.
- Ultra VNC A barebones and simple remote desktop tool. A free open-source program that has dozens of community created plugins and add-ons.
- Chrome Remote Desktop Ideal for one-off support connections or personal use.
- AnyDesk A fast and free remote desktop tool for both inactive and active remote sessions.
- Quick Assist A free tool built into Windows 10 that provides quick remote sessions to other Windows 10 machines.
Our methodology for selecting the best remote desktop tool
We’ve broken down our analysis for you based on these key criteria:
- Essential for quick deployment across multiple systems.
- To ensure seamless operation in mixed OS environments.
- Critical for protecting remote sessions and data.
- For effective management and problem resolution.
- Enables efficient operation by all levels of IT staff.
The best remote desktop tools
1. N-able Take Control (FREE TRIAL)
N-able Take Control is a great remote desktop tool that is geared more towards smaller organizations that need to strike a balance between affordability and efficiency. While SolarWinds Dameware focuses on the large MSPs and enterprise-level networks, Take Control nicely fills the gap for smaller offices and MSPs with a smaller inventory.
Key Features:
- Attended and unattended support
- Cross-platform support
- Fast remote session connection
- Advanced support features in Plus version
Why do we recommend it?
N-able Take Control offers a balanced solution for smaller organizations and MSPs, providing efficient and affordable remote desktop services with rapid connection times.
Take Control has both attended and unattended support allowing you or your technicians to perform maintenance on your machines passively or actively. The remote desktop application includes similar troubleshooting tools, live chat features, and cross-platform support that Dameware provides.
Connecting remotely is surprisingly fast and averages between five to eight seconds to establish your session. If you’re looking for more advanced support features such as remote registry editing, batch scripting, and session monitoring, Take Control Plus adds more proactive reporting tools and additional features that enhance the productivity and efficiency of your helpdesk.
Whether you’re looking to quickly access a handful of servers remotely, or have a staff you need to support, N-able Take Control has all the features you need, and nothing you don’t.
Who is it recommended for?
This tool is well-suited for small businesses and MSPs needing a reliable, quick remote access solution that balances cost and functionality.
Take Control Plus starts at $45.00 (£35.85) per month with unlimited users. You can try Take Control on a 14-day free trial.
EDITOR'S CHOICE
N-able Take Control is our top pick for a remote desktop tool because it provides desktop access to computers running Windows, macOS, or Linux, and it doesn’t matter what operating system that technician’s computer has. In fact, the support technician can even access computers remotely through the Take Control app, which is available for mobile devices running iOS or Android. Once access has been achieved, the technician can take control of the remote computer. This can be useful for troubleshooting and for problem resolution. If the user is there, the technician can communicate through a chat panel and use the remote control tool to demonstrate a solution and educate the user. The Take Control package also enables remote access to unattended fleet endpoints. This is a great tool for managed service providers or in-house IT Support teams.
Download: Get a 14-day free trial
Official Site: https://www.n-able.com/products/take-control/trial
OS: Cloud based
2. SolarWinds Dameware (FREE TRIAL)
Close to the very top of our list of best remote desktop tools is SolarWinds Dameware which was specifically designed to give sysadmins all the remote assistance features they’d need for their corporate environment.
Key Features:
- Troubleshooting tools built-in
- Cross-platform remote access
- Simple MSI package deployment
- FIPS 140-2 validated security
Why do we recommend it?
SolarWinds Dameware is recommended for its advanced troubleshooting capabilities and secure, versatile remote access across different operating systems, making it ideal for large organizations and MSPs.
Dameware is a flexible remote access tool that can be configured either as an on-premises solution or set up as a cloud-based software service. Unlike most remote administration tools, the Dameware agent is compatible with both Windows and Mac, making it ideal if you are expected to administer a mixed OS environment.
Deploying the agent is simple, and can be done by executing a simple MSI package on the target machine. This can be pushed out en masse through GPO or login script and proves to be a convenient tool for admins who manage a larger number of endpoints.
Dameware goes the extra mile providing built-in multifactor authentication, and compatible with smart cards and security pin systems. You can rest easy knowing that your sessions are secured through FIPS 140-2 validated cryptography, and complies with the strict Department of Homeland Security and federal requirements for secure networks.
One of our personal favorite features of Dameware is the troubleshooting tools that are built into the remote client. Intel AMT (Active Management Technology) gives you the ability to recover PCs that have crashed, asleep, or are completely turned off. This saves a lot of time and eliminates an added phone call or email while trying to get connected.
Intel AMT is part of a small suite of built-in administrator tools that make Dameware truly more than just another remote desktop application. You’ll have the option to view event logs, see real-time utilization data, and create and edit network users. Dameware also has a Mobile Gateway component that gives technicians the ability to remote into PCs from their Android or iOS devices.
Who is it recommended for?
This tool is particularly suited for sysadmins in larger companies or MSPs who need a robust and secure remote desktop solution with extensive troubleshooting tools and cross-platform compatibility.
Pros:
- Advanced troubleshooting tools streamline remote management.
- Cross-platform support enhances versatility for mixed OS environments.
- Easy deployment with MSI package saves administrative time.
- Strong security measures, including FIPS 140-2 validation, ensure secure sessions.
- Intel AMT integration for efficient management of offline PCs.
- Mobile Gateway feature for remote access via mobile devices.
Cons:
- Might be complex for smaller organizations or individual users.
If you’re looking for a reliable remote desktop tool to stand as a pillar of support for your company, Dameware gives you features and scalability to do just that and more. You can test-drive Dameware yourself for free for 14 days using the link below.
3. ManageEngine Remote Desktop Plus (FREE TRIAL)
ManageEngine Remote Access Plus connects technicians to computers running Windows, macOS, or Linux and the technician’s own computer can be running any of those operating systems. This package offers remote desktop services for free.
Key Features:
- Supports Windows, macOS, Linux
- Multiple simultaneous sessions
- Attended and unattended access
- Cloud-based or Windows Server software
Why do we recommend it?
ManageEngine Remote Access Plus stands out for its versatility in supporting multiple operating systems and offering both attended and unattended remote access options, making it highly adaptable for various IT needs.
The technician can have multiple sessions to different computers open simultaneously and the console for each session can have multiple panels open, each providing a different function. As well as the view of the remote desktop in the center of the console, the technician can open up a chat panel and utilities such as a file transfer service.
The service can connect to attended computers, offering a choice of remote viewing or remote control and it can also provide access to unattended machines with a Wake-on-LAN service. Technicians can also reboot and shut down remote computers.
Who is it recommended for?
It is ideal for IT professionals and support technicians who require robust and flexible remote access capabilities across diverse operating systems and scenarios.
Pros:
- Simultaneous session management boosts efficiency
- Attended/unattended access for varied use cases
- Cloud and Windows Server options offer flexibility
Cons:
- Limited access in the free version
Remote Access Plus is available as a cloud-based SaaS package or as software for Windows Server. There are two paid editions; Standard and Professional. The base price for these versions is calculated for five technicians supporting 25 endpoints. On that basis, the Standard edition costs $75 (£60) per year and the Professional edition, which has many more features, costs $95 (£76) per year. However, there is also a Free edition that provides all of the services of the Professional edition but is limited to accessing 10 devices.
You can get a 30-day free trial of the Professional edition and if you don’t buy at the end of that period, the package automatically switches over to the Free edition.
4. ConnectWise Control
Formerly known as ScreenConnect, ConnectWise Control is a comprehensive remote desktop tool that primarily caters to MSPs, and integrates with a number of other management tools such as PassPortal, ConnectWise Automate, Acronis, and Zendesk.
Key Features:
- MSP-focused features
- Standalone or session-based access
- File and clipboard transfer
- Session recording capabilities
Why do we recommend it?
ConnectWise Control is a comprehensive choice for MSPs, offering a blend of versatility and integration capabilities with various management tools, enhancing remote desktop operations.
You can install ConnectWise Control both as a standalone agent to permanently have access to your inventory, or use it to provide single session access for one off remote sessions in a helpdesk setting. This gives you the freedom to toggle between your actively managed PCs and your break-fix clients all in the same dashboard without muddying your inventory.
One the MSI agent is deployed, the PC will automatically populate in your dashboard when installed. You can configure specific MSI packages to automatically put PCs into specific groups or locations inside of ConnectWise Control. Once installed, connecting to a machine is as simple as clicking on the screen share button.
Once you’re connected, you can copy and paste files, copy your clipboard, disable user input, blackout the screen, and even record the session to document procedures and help create new policies on the fly.
If you’re just not getting enough out of ConnectWise Control you can go through an entire marketplace of both free and paid extensions to give you a more customized toolset of features for your remote desktop app.
ConnectWise Automate naturally extends the usefulness and capability of the remote desktop application by giving you extended inventory management features, and additional automation capabilities.
Who is it recommended for?
Ideal for MSPs looking for a remote desktop solution that integrates seamlessly with other management tools and offers both permanent access and one-off session support.
Pros:
- Versatile access options cater to diverse needs
- Integration with other management tools
- File transfer and session recording enhance functionality
- Customizable with a variety of extensions
Cons:
- Some premium features require separate purchase
All round, ConnectWise Control is a solid remote desktop application that provides tons of intuitive design elements and customizations. One downside is that the inventory management, scripting, and other premium features are only found in ConnectWise Automate, so you’d need to purchase that application separately if you were looking for those abilities. Nonetheless, ConnectWise Control is a great tool for MSPs and can be downloaded with a free trial.
5. UltraVNC
UltraVNC is an open-source and free remote desktop tool that has been on the web since 2005, and has truly stood the test of time. While it certainly doesn’t win any awards for its user interface, it does provide a straightforward and customizable remote desktop application that anyone can use.
Key Features:
- Open-source remote desktop tool
- Supports Windows, Linux, macOS
- Industry-standard encryption
- Customizable settings for sessions
Why do we recommend it?
UltraVNC‘s open-source nature and robust customization options make it an efficient and secure choice for those familiar with remote desktop technologies.
The tool is usually integrated within other applications, and many don’t know you can just download and use the raw VNC client to remote into any Windows, Linux, or macOS machine. UltraVNC leaves no room for fluff, making it extremely efficient from a resource perspective.
Like most remote desktop tools, UltraVNC mirrors the workstation you’re connected to and gives you full control of the PC as if you were physically in front of it. While the front end may look antiquated, UltraVNC utilizes industry-standard encryption for all of your remote connections.
While the less tech-savvy may find UltraVNC confusing, network techs will enjoy a wide range of customization options to configure their sessions to their liking. You can dial down settings such as color bit mapping, jpeg quality, and bandwidth usage to improve your connectivity over poor connections.
Who is it recommended for?
Suitable for network technicians and IT professionals who value customization and efficient resource use in a remote desktop tool.
Pros:
- Open-source offers extensive customization
- Multi-OS support for broad compatibility
- Strong encryption for secure connections
- Resource-efficient for smoother operation
Cons:
- User interface may be challenging for less tech-savvy users
Since UltraVNC is open-source, you’ll find a wide variety of community-based plugins and added features that can add even more functionality and security to this powerful remote desktop tool. You can download UltraVNC for free on its official website.
6. Chrome Remote Desktop
If you’re looking for a remote desktop solution that’s quick and casual, Chrome Remote Desktop is tough to beat. In under five minutes, you can download and run a small MSI file that gives you access to your host machine from virtually anywhere.
Key Features:
- Quick setup and use
- Basic remote desktop functions
- Clipboard sync and input controls
- Requires only a Google account
Why do we recommend it?
Chrome Remote Desktop‘s ease of use and rapid setup make it an excellent choice for those needing quick, casual remote access without complex features.
After creating a six-digit pin, you’ll have the option to remote into that PC as long as you can sign in to your Google account. Outside of the sign-in process, there isn’t anything more that’s needed to establish a connection. You do have some basic options such as screen resizing, clipboard sync, and input controls.
The major drawback is that you don’t have any advanced administrative features such as registry editing, inventory management, or helpdesk tools. You also won’t be able to remote into your machine if it crashes, gets turned off, or goes to sleep.
Who is it recommended for?
Best for users seeking a straightforward remote desktop solution for quick access, without the need for advanced administrative features.
Pros:
- Extremely easy and quick to set up
- Basic functionality suitable for casual use
- Sync and input control options included
Cons:
- Lacks advanced administrative features
If the only thing you need to do is quickly remote into your machine, this is likely the easiest option. Chrome Remote Desktop is completely free and just requires a Google account.
7. AnyDesk
If you’re currently using Teamviewer and aren’t happy with its features or performance, AnyDesk might be the alternative you never knew you needed. AnyDesk is built for remote workers and IT support teams who need quick and convenient access to multiple machines.
Key Features:
- Unique DeskRT codec
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Mobile device support
- Strong RSA 2048 encryption
Why do we recommend it?
AnyDesk is notable for its low latency remote sessions, courtesy of its unique DeskRT codec, making it exceptionally efficient for various remote access scenarios, including high frame-rate video viewing.
AnyDesk doesn’t run on VNC or RDP protocol but uses its own unique codec called DeskRT that provides extremely low latency remote sessions. Installation is simple and allows the application to be used on Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux.
While AnyDesk works well on a number of platforms, it is noticeably easy to use on mobile devices. From a desktop, you can remote into either an Android or Apple phone with relative ease. This is a major win for helpdesks who have to support mobile devices and struggle to walk users through specific steps over the phone while troubleshooting.
AnyDesk works under both unattended and interactive access for remote desktop, and supports a host of advanced features such as remote printing, copy and paste file transfer, and strong RSA 2048 encryption.
During testing, AnyDesk performed the best for viewing video remotely and averaged 55 frames per second. If you’ve ever tried to load a video over RDP you’ll know just how impressive that really is.
Who is it recommended for?
Ideal for remote workers and IT support teams needing fast, convenient access to multiple machines, including support for mobile devices.
Pros:
- DeskRT codec ensures low latency
- Mobile support enhances versatility
- Strong encryption for secure sessions
Cons:
- Advanced features require paid version
AnyDesk is free for personal use, and unlike Teamviewer, we did not get our session disconnected for being mistaken for commercial use. If you are looking to incorporate AnyDesk into your business, pricing starts at just $10.99 (£8.84) a month.
8. Quick Assist
Lastly, we have the convenient Quick Assist remote desktop app built right into Windows 10. This is a free tool that comes preinstalled in all versions of Windows 10. Quick Assist does exactly what its name implies and was designed to allow you to support someone quickly through a remote session.
Key Features:
- Built into Windows 10
- Simple remote access setup
- Full remote session control
- Annotation and reboot options
Why do we recommend it?
Quick Assist‘s integration into Windows 10 and its straightforward approach make it a convenient tool for providing fast and basic remote support.
This is convenient if you have a family member or friend who is getting stuck with smaller technical issues, or maybe just needs walked through a specific process. After giving the host your six-digit code you’ll be able to see the remote screen and control it if the host allows that option.
Once connected you’ll have full remote access to the session and be able to access the task manager, illustrate annotations, and initiate reboots that will automatically reconnect your session.
Quick Assist isn’t without some significant drawbacks. Currently, you cannot install Quick Assist as an agent for unintended access and must enter a code to initiate a remote session.
Both you and the person you’re connecting to must also have Windows 10, which really limits the scope of who you can support. Finally, you’ll need to have a Microsoft account to generate the six-digit pin, which is a bit annoying if you don’t want to create a new account.
While Quick Assist isn’t the best option, it certainly is convenient when looking to support someone who’s already on a Windows 10 PC.
Who is it recommended for?
Best suited for individuals or IT support personnel needing a quick and easy solution for assisting others on Windows 10 systems.
Pros:
- Easy and quick to access on Windows 10
- Full control options during sessions
- Useful for basic support and guidance
Cons:
- Limited to Windows 10 users only
You can find Quick Assist on your Windows 10 PC by clicking on Start and then searching for Quick Assist.
Conclusion
It’s clear that not all remote desktop tools are created equally. Hopefully, you can find a tool that fits your specific needs. MSPs and larger enterprises will find that SolarWinds Dameware has the best remote tools for scalable remote desktop support with detailed features such as reporting and auditing.
Smaller businesses will enjoy the flexible plans that N-able Take Control offers while still maintaining key remote desktop support tools and customizable options.
Lastly, if you’re just looking to remote into a family or friend’s computer, AnyDesk offers fast low latency connections and remote desktop settings completely for free.
What’s your favorite remote desktop tool? Be sure to let us know in the comments below.
