Computing By Proxy: The 10 Most Useful Remote Desktop Tools For Work And Play In 2021

Remote desktop access is an interesting piece of technology. It allows a user to connect to and interact with another computer somewhere else. The two computers connect through the internet or an internal network.

This is especially useful for collaborative work, tech support, and demonstrations.

If you’ve never tried using remote desktop tools in your daily workflow, now’s the time to switch. Whether you need it for work or entertainment, you’ll appreciate these 10 remote desktop tools.

1. TeamViewer

There’s no avoiding TeamViewer when it comes to talking about remote desktop tools. It’s one of the best options available and it’s been around for a long time now. So what makes TeamViewer so amazing?

First off, TeamViewer is free to use if it’s for personal use cases. For professional uses, it’s $49 per month, and for corporate licenses, it’s $199 per month. This makes it easy for new users to test out the software.

TeamViewer establishes a secure connection and it works on almost all operating systems. With TeamViewer, you get a host of different options like remote control, desktop sharing, and transferring files.

2. Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop is Google’s free remote desktop tool. You can grab it from the Chrome App Store and get it set up in a matter of minutes.

This tool is a strong contender in the remote desktop tools space. The only downside is that you must use Google’s Chrome browser to use it. But that isn’t a huge problem when the experience of the program is good.

Chrome Remote Desktop allows you to connect to remote computers through the browser. It has an easy interface and works on most devices.

3. Netop Remote Control

Netop Remote Control is an excellent option if you’re looking for remote access tools. They offer a variety of versions to match your use case, with a free trial to kick things off. After that, they offer a budget-friendly annual subscription which can be less than $1/month.

Netop has a ton of security features like multi-factor authentication and end-to-end encryption. You can take control of remote computers with more confidence when you try out Netop Remote Control, one of the best remote desktop software available.

4. ConnectWise Control

Connectwise Control is a powerful remote access tool that works on any OS. It also works with almost all browsers. The only downside is that it only has a free trial. Otherwise, it has a monthly pricing package.

There’s a very good reason for the pricing though. The software makes it easy to set up and use. It features a central software toolbox that has common tools, drivers, and more for each client.

For example, it has a timeline feature to let you know how long you’ve been working with a client. It even has a drag-drop function to and from your session to your local machine.

5. VNC Connect

VNC Connect is not as well-known as some of the other tools in this list, but it has a pretty good track record. It works on a HUGE list of platforms (some of which are pretty obscure). This list includes Oracle’s Solaris, HP-UX, AIX, Raspberry Pi, and more.

It’s free for personal use and packs a ton of features. It has great security options and offers advanced features if you choose to pay for it.

6. WebEx

Owned by Cisco, WebEx is a popular remote access tool used by large companies. It’s a well fleshed-out tool that is reliable every time you use it.

For personal use, it might be a little bit of overkill. Companies will love all the various features and plugins that you can tweak. For example, it has support for up to 100 people per meeting.

There are 3 different pricing options that you can choose. If your business has a lot of staff and you’re looking to invest in a remote access tool, WebEx is a top contender.

7. CloudBerry Remote Assistant

While WebEx is great for companies, CloudBerry is a perfect option for personal use. Let’s talk about one of the main reasons why: it’s free. All its features are accessible in the free version, and there are plenty of features for you to try.

CloudBerry has features like text and voice chat during remote sessions and advanced SSL encryption. It also works on most devices and internet speeds.

8. Goverlan Reach

Goverlan Reach is one of the most versatile options in this list. With three pricing versions and a sleek interface, it makes the cut for being one of the top remote access tools.

While remote access is one of its strengths, it also has other features that make it a dream to use. Included are things like background system management, software & patch management, and IT reporting.

Its starting price is $29/month and rises based on the package you choose. If you need to support a variety of tasks in your remote access needs, Goverlan Reach is perfect for you.

9. Ammyy Admin

This free option is a great choice as far as remote access tools go. The interface might look a little dated but the features are there.

Ammyy Admin prides itself on the fact that you don’t need to customize it to get it running. All you have to do is install it and it takes off on its own. This is perfect for people who might not have experience running remote desktops.

10. Windows Remote Desktop Connection

Windows Remote Desktop Connection is great if you like to access your remote computer through your phone. While it’s called “Windows Remote Desktop Connection,” it also has a Mac OS app.

The program is completely free and simple to use. Through its app, you can add as many computers as you’d like. This way, you have a wide range of coverage.

A Remote Access Tool That Fits You In 2019

If you’re ready to take your business to the next level, try one of the options listed here. Remote access tools can help strengthen your business operations.

If you’re looking for even more tech products that can help your business, we’ve got you covered.