Remote Desktop Software

Remote Access Software Ranking Process

To find the top remote access products on the market, we’ve tested multiple solutions against specific criteria. Read on to discover the different aspects we included in our ranking process which have helped us determine which solutions we’ll include in the table, as well as the position of each of these platforms.

Classification

The first step of our evaluation methodology is to group the software based on the following parameters: industry and business size focus, and deployment options.

Industry & Business Size Focus

Remote access software is most commonly used in the IT sector, but it has also found applications in other industries, including:

• Finances
• Real estate
• Retail
• Hospitality
• Education.

This type of software is also quite flexible in terms of business size. Many vendors strive to provide businesses of all sizes with a remote desktop solution. That said, some platforms are aimed specifically at SMBs or large organizations.

Lastly, nearly all software solutions from this category have a free version that will suit the needs of individual users. For this audience, remote desktop software is typically available for non-commercial use only.

This part of our evaluation process doesn’t affect the rankings of the software, it only helps us categorize it properly.

Remote Desktop Product Deployment

Remote desktop solutions are usually deployed either in the cloud or on the company’s premises.
On-premise solutions require a team of IT experts to install, update, and maintain the software. This type of deployment comes with a one-time fee, requiring a significant financial investment but offers a high level of customization.

Remote desktop connection software deployed in the cloud is a budget-friendly solution that comes with monthly or yearly subscription fees. Users don’t need to invest in any hardware, while software vendors help with all technical aspects of their product.

The deployment options, much like industry and business size focus, don’t determine how a product will rank in the table. This is based primarily on the features and the overall performance of the software.

Key Features of Remote Software

Remote access programs can be used for a variety of purposes, including remote computer support, control, work, e-learning, employee monitoring, etc.

With that in mind, we’ve analyzed the essential features of these products.

Multiple OS & Device Support

The top products should support various operating systems and devices. That ensures you can access and control different OSs from different devices.
Most vendors support Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and Chrome OS.

Endpoint Limits

We look for an unlimited number of endpoints, i.e., the number of devices you can connect to.

Session Management

Before you can offer remote support, you must first start a session with the end-user. The best remote access software should allow you to do the following:
Start a session with a single click

• Manage multiple sessions
• Schedule a session (e.g., for online training)
• Record a session (transparent audits)
• Transfer a session to another support agent/ IT technician.

While looking for the top software solutions, we researched the average number of concurrent sessions users can have. Typically, the upper limit is set to six, but many companies will allow you to increase that number by purchasing extra concurrent session licenses.

We also consider the amount of storage space offered by remote desktop programs for storing session recordings, screenshots, and notes.

Unattended Access

This feature enables user access without the confirmation of another user. This functionality is particularly useful for IT administrators and managed services providers for updating, maintaining, and troubleshooting their organization’s or clients’ software.

File Transfer & Synced Clipboards

Easy file transfer between computers is another crucial option. Some products handle this through the drag-and-drop functionality, while others offer synced clipboards which allow users to copy/paste text and images between local and remote computers.

User Management

Any remote PC access software should also provide you with all the tools to keep your data safe. One of the ways to achieve that is through role-based access, which helps determine who can see and manage files, access an unattended computer, etc.

Power Management

The best software should allow technicians to maintain and troubleshoot unattended computers without requiring any actions on the other end. For instance, software updates require that a machine is restarted. To eliminate time-consuming or redundant actions, remote computer access software allows users to wake a computer from sleep mode or turn on an unattended computer through Wake On-LAN technology.

Multi-Monitor Support

If a customer is using multiple monitors, support agents should have the option of viewing all monitors simultaneously or switch between the monitors.

Voice, Video, & Text Chat

Whether you want to chat with clients or communicate with your IT team, the software of your choice should provide you with the tools to do that. Most products offer live chat functionality. Others also support video conferencing software and tools, which facilitates great communication and improves customer support resolution times.

Whiteboard Tools

Among the essential remote support software products are whiteboard tools. They further enhance customer-customer support interactions by providing drawing and text tools, allowing remote support agents to highlight specific areas of a customer’s computer screen to avoid misunderstandings.

Screen Blanking

The screen blanking feature is used for hiding sensitive information, and in general, disabling others from viewing your activity on a remote PC. One of the common uses of this feature is during remote support sessions. A blank screen allows you to enter your credentials without displaying the same on a remote computer.

Remote Printing

Printing is another feature commonly found in remote desktop control software. It lets users access files on a remote computer, and print them out on their local printer. Whether you’re on a business trip or working over the weekend, the remote printing feature allows you to quickly obtain the files you need.

Custom Branding

If you plan on using the software for offering remote support, the option to customize it will surely come in handy. Instead of the software license number, you can add your business’s name, phone, etc. Custom branding will also add credibility to your remote support system.

Security

The software has to offer a suite of security features to ensure all remote connections are safe. One of the essential features is AES-256 encryption, which is used in banking. Other security features include two-factor authentication, action log viewer, and inactivity timeout.

Additionally, this type of software should also be compatible with most antivirus solutions, so that users don’t have to change firewall configuration to use the remote desktop software.

Integrations

We further looked at the integration options available with this type of software. Typically, remote access platforms integrate with helpdesk, CRM software, and ticket systems.

Pricing Policy

While the remote desktop market offers a wealth of low-priced products, we’re not here to recommend the cheapest products only. If the software is competitively priced, that’s great. That said, we value products with a good price/quality ratio more.

We further look at the industry standards and the range between the priciest and cheapest remote access software. Any solution that is way too low or high above that range is not included in our rankings.

Lastly, a free trial or a money-back guarantee is always welcome. Software that offers either of the two (or both) gets additional points from us.

Reviews of Remote Desktop Software

RemotePC

RemotePC caters to businesses of all sizes, offering different product packages to individuals, teams, and large organizations. The offering is quite extensive, too, with a wealth of features, including remote printing, unlimited simultaneous connections, and the AR-enabled video sharing tool Vision.

Pros

• Platform agnostic
• A robust security toolset
• Drag-and-drop file management
• Whiteboard tools
• Affordable pricing

Cons

• 24/7 live chat and email support not available on all plans

Features

RemotePC ranks as the top remote access software, as it’s packed with plenty of features that make accessing and managing PCs incredibly simple.

The software runs on Windows, Linux, and Mac platforms, as well as on iOS and Android devices. Additionally, the vendor allows users to manage computers remotely through a web browser with the RemotePC Viewer Lite.

Depending on the pricing, users can manage anywhere between two and 1,000 remote computers. The drag-and-drop functionality enables simple file transfers. Users can also add/remove folders, and create directories with the RPC’s remote desktop tools.

The Always-ON remote access feature allows users to configure remote computers via the RPC platform, and keep track of computers’ status (online, offline, in session, etc.).
One of the RemotePC’s features worth pointing out is the video-sharing tool, Vision. It is powered by artificial intelligence, and it takes customer support to the next level, as well as aid in user collaborations.

Other features of RemotePC include whiteboard tools, chat functionality, multi-monitor view, and remote printing. Screen blanking is available too, while, security-wise, this remote desktop software uses AES-256 encryption, and the Personal Key feature, which adds an additional level of security.

Pricing

The vendor offers four pricing plans. The Consumer ($12.12/year) and SOHO packages ($52.12/year) include a decent amount of remote desktop features, covering a single license, and access to two and 10 computers, respectively.

The Team plan comes with the option to add an unlimited number of users and 24/7 live chat and email support. The price of this plan is $187.12/year.

Lastly, the Enterprise package includes an on-demand remote support software, role-based user management, and a few other extras. The plan is priced at $374.62.

Zoho Assist

Apart from outstanding product support, Zoho Assist is well-equipped with all the tools you need to provide remote support. You can also set unattended access and get full control over remote desktops. The software comes with a 15-free trial, and offers a free version.

Pros

• Drag-and-drop file transfer
• Supports video and audio chat
• Extensive power management options
• Screen sharing tools available
• Robust security features

Cons

• The free version doesn’t support file transfer

Features

Zoho Assist is, without a doubt, the best remote desktop software with access and on-demand support. It’s easy to use, allowing users to quickly get a full grasp of the wide range of features.
The built-in file transfer system with drag-and-drop functionality makes sending and receiving files effortless. Setting unattended access is pretty straightforward, backed by extensive online documentation on how users can access and control remote computers.

Next, the power management options range from restarting and rebooting a remote computer to putting it on standby or logging off. The Wake-On-LAN functionality meanwhile lets users access a computer that’s in sleep mode or turned off.

As one of the best remote support software solutions, Zoho Assist offers a variety of tools to enable quick and efficient customer support. Whiteboard tools, the option to switch between multiple monitors and navigate them, schedule, record, and manage multiple sessions, and communicate with your clients via text, audio, and video chat are all available with Zoho’s remote support product.

Lastly, the software is highly secure. It uses AES 256-bit encryption, two-factor authentication, inactivity session timeouts, and activity log viewer for providing users with in-depth insight about all events within their company.

Pricing

The Zoho Assist software divides unattended access and remote computer support software into two categories.

Zoho’s remote support plans include Standard ($8/month when billed annually), Professional ($13/month when billed annually), and Enterprise ($21/month when billed annually). The Standard plan includes all the basics you need to provide remote customer support. If you want to schedule sessions, have four concurrent sessions, and access custom branding options, you’ll have to subscribe to the Professional plan, while whiteboard tools, session recording and audit, and up to six concurrent sessions are available with the Enterprise plan.

To use the software’s unattended access features, you can either subscribe to the Standard ($8/month/25 computers) or Professional plan ($13/month/25 computers).
This secure remote desktop software also offers a free plan, but it is somewhat limited, lacking mobile app support, screen sharing tools, and file transfers.

NordLayer

Apart from ranking as one of the best VPN solutions, NordLayer is also an excellent remote desktop software choice. Its smart remote access feature allows users to create a local network within the devices that are using the private gateway, which enables sharing sensitive files safely, via RDP. This solution can also handle your business no matter the size. As you scale your business, you can adapt your plan.

Pros

• Multi-layered security
• Cloud-based solution
• 24/7 support from tech-savvy staff
• 14-day money-back guarantee

Cons

• No free version

Features

Since this remote desktop connection software supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, all the devices that are in your network are secured.

NordLayer is not only easy to use, but it makes remote desktop management a breeze. It also performs great when it comes to remote desktop monitoring. You can easily segment your network, restrict some accesses here, allow some access there; and every employee will be able to see only the parts of the network and the data that are relevant to them. It’s also super convenient that when the status of your employees changes, NordLayer automatically makes the necessary updates regarding their overall network access.

Pricing

NordLayer presented itself as one of the top remote desktop software with no traffic limitations. Their Basic plan at $9/month ($108/year) doesn’t include dedicated servers, but if you add 2 extra dollars, you’ll get the Advanced plan ($132/year) that will grant you a dedicated IP and many more nifty features.

If your business is scaling out of control, and you feel as if your plan should scale too, you can always schedule a consultation, and make a plan tailored to your remote desktop software needs.

AnyDesk

AnyDesk is a widely popular remote desktop solution with over 15,000 customers in more than 165 countries. Some of the industries that have used AnyDesk include health, HR, travel, and IT. Regarding business size, the company offers products tailored to meet the requirements of individuals, small, medium, and large businesses.

Pros

• Supports numerous platforms
• Secure TLS 1.2 technology
• An unlimited number of endpoints
• Automatic software updates
• Screen sharing supported

Cons

• Free version heavily limited

Features

AnyDesk can be used as a software for remote access or remote customer support solution — the choice is yours. The product is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, among others. With all of its paid plans, AnyDesk offers an unlimited number of endpoints.

Starting a session is an intuitive process, while the number of sessions ranges from one to three, depending on the chosen plan, with more sessions available for a yearly fee. Once a session starts, users can enjoy the optimal balance of speed and quality of this remote connection software. Session recording and whiteboard tools are available too.

File transfers are enabled through a synced clipboard, while a dedicated file manager only supports Windows and macOS. Unattended access is easily configured. Users can also connect to remote computers automatically through a password, without requiring action at the other end.
Other AnyDesk features include remote printing, whiteboard tools, custom namespaces, etc.

Pricing

Apart from a free plan for non-commercial use, AnyDesk offers three plaid plans:

• Lite ($10.49/month) — single user, one session
• Professional ($20.99/month) — multiple devices and users, one or more sessions
• Power ($52.99/month) — multiple devices, users, and simultaneous sessions.

ISL Online

As one of the best remote desktop software solutions, ISL Online is both secure and rich in features that make accessing remote computers, working from home, and providing remote support simple. The vendor offers cloud and self-hosted versions of the product, and caters to businesses of all sizes.

Pros

• Intuitive user interface
• An unlimited number of endpoints
• Mobile app support
• Excellent product support
• 15-day money-back guarantee

Cons

• Somewhat pricey

Features

If you look at remote access software reviews, you’ll find that users don’t like cumbersome, difficult-to-navigate products. With ISL Online, however, you won’t have such problems due to the platform’s clean and intuitive user interface.

The software allows users to support their clients remotely or access unattended computers. It supports different operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Unattended access can be set via email or code, allowing users to access and control a remote computer in just a few clicks. ISL Online facilitates file transfers between local and distant PCs via a File Transfer window that allows users to simply drag and drop the files they want to send to another computer.

This remote desktop support software features a clutter-free dashboard where users can see all of their sessions and start new ones in a single click. Support agents can request control over a client’s computer, transfer a session to another agent, as well as communicate with clients via text chat, audio, and video calls. Session recording, multi-monitor view, and whiteboard tools are also offered.

Pricing

ISL Online offers monthly and annual subscriptions for its cloud and on-premise software.
The cloud-based version includes one simultaneous session, unlimited connection time for $47/month. Plus, subscribing to an annual contract, priced at $469/year, isn’t required.

One of the best remote computer access software solutions offers the pay-per-use pricing model, which, on a monthly basis, gets you unlimited concurrent sessions, and 60 minutes/month for $20. The annual deal includes 500 minutes and costs $145.

The on-premise software comes with two price tags — $990 and $17,325/per lifetime. Both solutions are deployed on a single server, but the pricier plan includes unlimited concurrent connections, whereas the former includes only one. The company also offers a 15-day free trial and volume discounts on their software packages.

LogMeIn Pro

Ranking as one of the industry’s leading secure remote access software, LogMeIn Pro helps small and medium-sized businesses work remotely, empowering them to be flexible, mobile, and efficient. The software supports 12 different languages, and aids in faster adoption by providing comprehensive information.

Pros

• Supports an unlimited number of users
• Multi-OS support
• Simple file transfers
• Password management software
• Mobile app support

Cons

• A bit on the pricey side

Features

LogMeIn Pro is one of the best software solutions for remote access. It supports various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

The remote control software helps users access remote computers. The number of computers that can be accessed and controlled remotely ranges from two to 50. To sweeten the deal, LogMeIn Pro includes a powerful password management software with each of the packages for free.
Transferring files between computers is pretty straightforward due to the software’s drag-and-drop functionality. Users also get 1TB of cloud storage for their data.

Next, the Sync Clipboard feature ensures there are no errors by allowing users to copy and paste the same information on local and remote computers. The Blank Screen option helps keep unwanted eyes from sensitive information.

Being one of the best remote access software for small business owners, LogMeIn Pro boasts many other useful features, including remote printing, chat facility, screen sharing software, Wake-On-LAN, multi-monitor view, etc.

At the heart of a rather comprehensive feature set, the vendor puts security. The software is quick to detect unauthorized users and has a robust lockout mechanism. It also offers two-factor authentication and numerous user access permission options.

Pricing

LogMeIn Pro offers three pricing plans: Individuals ($30/month), Power Users ($70/month), and Small Businesses ($120/month). The primary difference is in the number of computers that can be accessed. A 14-day free trial is also available.

AeroAdmin

AeroAdmin is one of the best remote access software solutions due to its user-friendly interface and a wide range of uses. The product can be used for accessing unattended computers, providing remote support, monitoring, and online classes and presentations. AeroAdmin is suitable for individuals, as well as for companies of different sizes.

Pros

• Ease of use
• An unlimited number of simultaneous sessions
• Simple file transfers
• Custom branding options
• A free version available

Cons

• No mobile app
• The free plan doesn’t support file transfers

Features

Before we jump to AeroAdmin’s essential features, we wanted to highlight two reasons that rank AeroAdmin among the best remote tech support software on the market. One, their customer support is second to none, and two, the software is protected by a robust security system. The vendor deploys AES-256-bit encryption, 2-factor authentication, and an anti-brute-force system. On top of it all, AeroAdmin doesn’t store sensitive information on its serves but spreads it out across users’ computers.

The software helps connect to and manage unattended computers. Based on assigned access rights, administrators can control the remote computer’s mouse and keyboard, use clipboard syncing, and edit all access rights.

For file transfers, the remote IT support software uses File Manager, with the option of resuming the download and upload process in case of network interruptions.
AeroAdmin uses SiMS (Simple Message Service) to provide customer support. All clients need to do is send a support request with the issue explained to the admin's email address.

Other notable features include multi-monitor view, session screenshots, and an abundance of customization options.

Pricing

The remote assistance software offers a free version of its software, but with the free license, you won’t have access to some core features, such as file transfers.

The paid plans include Pro ($89.9/per computer/per year), Business ($119.9/per computer/per year), and Corporate ($139.9/per computer/per year). Adding more operating seats (i.e., computers) costs between $27 and $42, depending on the plan.

Anyplace Control

Anyplace Control supports the option of providing remote assistance, accessing, and managing unattended computers and servers, and it can even be used as an employee monitoring software. Apart from being one of the more affordable remote assistance tools, Anyplace Control also offers a 30-day free trial and a free version of the software.

Pros

• Easy-to-use product
• Drag-and-drop file transfer
• User access permissions
• Available in seven languages
• A solid security feature set

Cons

• Doesn’t offer scheduling or recording sessions
• No mobile app
• Major product updates aren’t free

Features

The software supports two modes for accessing a remote computer. Users can either have the View Only permission or complete control over the remote PC. The latter allows users to control a remote computer through their local computer keyboard and mouse. This remote desktop monitoring software allows simple file transfers too, which can be accomplished with the drag-and-drop functionality. Additionally, users can transfer data between computers via the clipboard transfer feature.

Power management options allow remotely turning the computer off and restarting it, as well as logging off. To avoid privacy issues, the software also supports the screen blanking option.

Remote support options allow users to generate a custom link and send it to their customers. Much like most remote support solutions, Anyplace Control users can send a session invitation through the platform. As soon as they enter the Full Control mode, users can start resolving their customers’ issues.

Lastly, the software provides a comprehensive event log, which allows users to see who and when connected to any remote PC they manage.

Pricing

The software supports three different packages, including Basic (free), Premium ($69.95/license/year), and HelpDesk. The HelpDesk plan includes another four plans: Economical ($99), Small ($199), and Medium HelpDesk ($149), and Corporate Unlimited (from $999).

Wayk Now

Wayk Now found a place on our remote access software list due to a wealth of features that simplify accessing and managing computers remotely. Another characteristic of this product is multi-OS support and ease of use, which, combined with robust system security, makes for an excellent remote access tool.

Pros

• Secure and reliable
• Multi simultaneous connections
• Session recording
• Free version available
• 30-day free trial

Cons

• The free plan doesn’t support unattended access
• Somewhat pricey
• No monthly subscription

Features

Wayk Now is one of the products from the Devolutions family. As one of the best remote support software for commercial use, Wayk Now packs in a wealth of features. The product can be used for commercial and non-commercial purposes free of charge.

Regarding operating system support, the solution is compatible with Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, and macOS. Additionally, Wayk Now offers native mobile apps for managing remote access and support on the go.

The software supports file transfers, in addition to clipboard synchronization that allows copy and paste actions on local and remote computers. While we cannot say Wayk Now is the cheapest remote support software out there, it is rich in features without a doubt. The built-in chat functionality is a great communication tool that can be used during sessions.

Users can also manage unattended computers with ease, as well as have multiple simultaneous sessions. Wayk Now is a relatively new product, but the company listens to users’ feedback and has been adding new features continuously since the product launch.

Pricing

Being one of the most secure remote access software solutions with enormous growth potential, Wayk Now offers a free version. The main flaw of this version is that it doesn’t support unattended access and multiple concurrent sessions.

To access these features, users should subscribe to the Enterprise plan. It comes with four types of licenses: User ($149.99/user/year), Site ($3,499.99/year), Country, and Global License (on-demand pricing).

How to Choose Remote Desktop Software

We’ve reviewed the best products that the remote access and support market currently offers. However, our work isn’t done. We’re here to help you narrow your choices down, and opt for the product that matches all your software requirements.

Step 1: Filter Based on Business Size

First, you should look for software solutions that match your business size. Our reviews will give you an idea which products are more suited for a freelancer/small business, and which cater to large enterprises.

Step 2: Define Your Needs

Based on the remote access and remote support software reviews above, look at the features that are must-haves for you. For example, if audio and video chat is essential, make sure to pick the software that offers this feature. Eliminate the products that lack the features you need. Then, compare the software you’ve got after step 1 against the software with the desired feature set.

Step 3: Define Your Budget

The final step is to decide how much you’re willing to spend on remote desktop software. Then, compare your budget with the products you’ve got after step 2. Those solutions that fall within your budget range are the ones you should go with.