Remote desktop software allows you to control a connected computer as though it’s physically in front of you.
Remote desktop tools are useful for technical support, accessing a corporate network when working remotely and collaborating with colleagues.
The remote desktop market is crowded with 100+ options but this guide will help you identify which one is right for you.
Our recommendations are either 100% free or have a free trial available.
Here is our list of the best free remote desktop software:
- SolarWinds Dameware Remote Everywhere EDITOR’S CHOICE A Cloud-based remote access tool that would be a useful support tool for MSPs or in-house IT service departments. This system is also available as on-premises software for installation on Windows and Windows Server. Two options for business with a 14-day free trial.
- ISL Online (FREE TRIAL) A secure cloud-based remote access and remote desktop service that is also available as on-premises software.
- ManageEngine Remote Access Plus (FREE TRIAL) A choice of cloud-based service or on-premises software for Windows. This remote access utility can interact with clients running Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.
- Zoho Assist (FREE TRIAL) Cloud-based support package that includes remote access and remote desktop utilities.
- N-able Take Control A compact remote control system that includes chat, VoIP, and queuing to serve multiple connections and users.
- TeamViewer A widely-used paid remote desktop system that is free to use for private individuals.
- Atera A remote monitoring and management suite for MSPs that includes Splashtop.
- Chrome Remote Desktop A straightforward, easy-to-access remote desktop system that runs through a Google Chrome browser.
- Microsoft Remote Desktop Free utility provided by Microsoft that enables remote desktop access to devices running Windows.
- Remmina Completely free for individuals and businesses – this is an open-source project and Linux users’ favorite.
How does a remote desktop work?
Remote desktop software has two components. The console and the agent.
Ordinarily, the agent is a background process that isn’t noticed by the user of the remote machine. The requirement to install a program on the remote computer means that the owner of that device has to give permission to get the remote desktop agent installed and to run it.
The other component is the agent program, which has to be installed on the remote computer.
Some remote desktop access systems operate from the Cloud. In these configurations, the console program is accessed online. However, an agent program still needs to be installed on the remote computer that is being accessed or controlled.
Once the console and agents are in place, the user simply logs into the remote machine using their credentials, and their desktop is cast to a window on the device they are using to access the remote computer. At this point, full access is obtained and the user can go about their work tasks from wherever in the world there is a reliable internet connection.
Remote desktop software isn’t new but with organizations becoming increasingly international and teams becoming more mobile it’s fast becoming essential.
The best free remote desktop software
This list of remote desktop software is a mixture of utilities for business and personal use.
1. Dameware Remote Everywhere (FREE TRIAL)
Our methodology for selecting free remote desktop software
We reviewed the market for remote desktop software and analyzed the options based on the following criteria:
- The option to upgrade from a limited free version to a higher paid edition
- A tool that offers direct access to the remote operating system as well as the desktop
- The ability to manage connections to multiple devices simultaneously
- Options for sessions to be attended by the user or unattended
- A system that includes live channels to communicate with the user
- A system that offers team operations for use by support departments
- An easy-to-use technician console
Dameware Remote Everywhere is a professional support system, so it probably wouldn’t interest home users. However, it is undoubtedly the most competent business remote desktop system for support teams on the market, which is why it gets the number one slot in this review.
Why do we recommend it?
Dameware Remote Everywhere is a complete support package and one of the central features of this tool is a remote desktop service. The package is intended for use by support teams and is charged for with a rate per technician.
Key Features:
- Designed for IT support technicians.
- Cloud-based service or on-premises
- Remote access to devices running Windows, Mac OS, and Linux
- Wake-on-LAN, remote desktop, and a technical support ticketing system
- 14-day free trial
Dameware is a remote support software platform that is charged by subscription. However, SolarWinds does offer a 14-day free trial of each of its Dameware products, so you can use this service for free, if only for two weeks.
You can access Dameware as an online service, which is charged by subscription or as on-premises software, which you buy with a one-time payment. The online version is called Dameware Remote Everywhere and the on-premises system is called Dameware Remote Support.
Dameware Remote Support software installs on Windows and Windows Server; Dameware Remote Everywhere isn’t operating system dependent because the console is accessed through a browser.
Both systems can remote access devices running Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, and both are made available through mobile apps. With Dameware Remote Everywhere, you pay a subscription per technician, but the service allows each operative to access up to 500 remote devices. The on-premises software of the Dameware Remote Support solution doesn’t have any remote device limitations. However, the licensing of this software is similar to the online version because it is priced per technician.
Who is it recommended for?
This package is intended for use by support teams. The team can be working in-house for a company supporting users and customers or it can be a support team provided by a managed service provider.
This software is specifically aimed at IT support departments and managed services providers. Try out a 14-day free trial of Dameware Remote Everywhere.
Pros:
- Available either on-premise or as a subscription SaaS, giving it more flexibility than competing products
- Accessible via browser, allowing for easy access to the dashboard
- Can support Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it a solid option for networks with diverse operating systems
- No limit on the number of devices, allowing businesses to scale as they hire more technicians
- Can sort, filter, and group remote devices easily
Cons:
- Would like to see a longer trial period
2. ISL Online (FREE TRIAL)
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Dameware Remote Everywhere is our top choice on this list because it gives you the choice of whether to source a remote access system as a cloud-based subscription service or run the software on your own servers. This remote access system features remote control capabilities, Wake-on-LAN, system information scans, and session logging. The system also includes an in-built ticketing system. The remote agent can install on any desktop or mobile operating system and the technician station can be running Windows, Mac OSX, or Linux.
Start 14 Day Free Trial: dameware.com/dameware-remote-everywhere
OS: Windows, Windows Server, or in the Cloud
ISL Online is a cloud-based remote access system that is also available for on-premises installation. The on-premises version is charged for with a one-time invoice and the online service is billed by subscription.
ISL Online offers deployment options because it is offered as a SaaS package but you can opt to download the software and host it on your own server. The remote device requires an agent to facilitate access and both the technician and the supported device can be running Windows, macOS, or Linux. The service also allows mobile-to-mobile access between iOS and Android devices.
- Cloud-based or on-premises
- Remote access to devices running Windows, Mac OS, and Linux
- 15-day free trial
The software drivers for the system are divided into two groups: services for technicians and remote access agents. The operator module installs on Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. This gives the technician access to a hosted control panel that enables sessions to start and run. The remote agent is also available for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. Both sides of the connection can also be supported by mobile apps for Android, iOS, and Windows 10 Mobile.
As well as giving technical remote access to client computers, ISL Online includes a remote desktop feature that enables Help Desk operators to provide live support to users. The screens for the service can be customized and it is also possible to white-label them, enabling you to put your branding on the dashboard. You not only get a live chat feature within the remote desktop program, live chat software is also included in the ISL Online license at no extra cost.
All connections between the dashboard, the ISL Online system, and the user device are protected by best practice security settings, 256-bit AES encryption, and support for two-factor authentication. The software will also integrate with your existing access rights managers to create a single sign-on environment.
The white labeling of this tool means that it is a good choice for managed service providers and also product support teams who connect to the devices of customers. It can also be used for in-house user support.
ISL Online is available for a 15-day free trial which offers unlimited use during the trial period and includes all features of the paid system.
Available for on-premise or in the cloud
Agent can be installed on Windows, Linux, or Mac, support a wide range of operating systems
Intuitive mobile app for both Android and iOS
Can use a simple integration to enable SSO
Would like to see a longer 30 day trial period
ISL Online Start 15-day FREE Trial
3. ManageEngine Remote Access Plus (FREE TRIAL)
Remote Access Plus is a suite of tools that facilitate remote access of client computers and includes a remote desktop module. The utility is available as a cloud-based service, hosted on the ManageEngine servers, or it can be installed on Windows and Windows Server on-premises.
ManageEngine Remote Access Plus is a flexible service that will appeal to a wide audience because it is available as a cloud-based SaaS package and you can also install it on your own server. The tool can access the desktops of Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Cloud-based or on-premises
- Can access Windows, Mac OS, and Linux
- 30-day free trial
The tool facilitates remote access to client computers that have the corresponding agent software installed on them. This agent can be installed on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS. The requirement for an agent requires a level of permission to be given by the owner of the remote computer.
Once the agent is active, the technician using the controller console is able to perform a range of maintenance tasks on the remote computer both manually and through script-driven automation.
The remote desktop facility is augmented by a chat facility that offers text, voice, and video chat between the technician and the user of the remote device. As well as accessing computers for exploration, technicians can turn the computer on or off remotely.
The ManageEngine system is very keenly priced, so it is difficult to see how any business could not be interested in this comprehensive remote support package. The tool is also offered for free for businesses that only have 10 devices to support.
Remote Access Plus is available in three editions and one of these is free. The Free version is limited to the control of ten client computers. The remote shutdown and Wake-on-LAN features are only available with the higher of the two paid plans, called Standard and Professional. You can get ManageEngine Remote Access Plus on a 30-day free trial.
Offers a suite of tools designed for support technicians alongside the remote access features
Offers both on-premise and cloud-based deployments
Uses an easy-to-navigate interface to browse devices by client, network, or custom grouping
Offers an ample trial period for testing
Supports features such as Wake On Lan, live chat, and Take Control options
While most features are easy to use, some of the more advanced features can take time to fully explore and learn
ManageEngine Remote Access Plus Start 30-day FREE Trial
4. Zoho Assist (FREE TRIAL)
Zoho produces a wide range of business software and the company also owns ManageEngine, which is a leading supplier of IT infrastructure management software. Zoho Assist is a cloud-based package of remote access services that is ideal for help desk and MSP technicians. The remote desktop in the utility is brandable, so you can put your company’s logo on all of the screens.
Zoho Assist includes channels for communicating with the supported user, including a chat window. The tool can be white-labeled and the remote user has to give consent to a connection, which means it is a good option for supporting external customers. Managed devices in-house can be set up with an agent to remove that consent stage.
- Suitable for MSPs
- White-labeling possible.
- 15-day free trial
The remote connection can only be made with the customer’s consent. All communications are protected by 256-bit AES encryption.
The Zoho Assist package includes a live chat system and an integrated file transfer utility. The technician can open up multiple sessions on the same remote machine, enabling user-visible actions in one window and operating system actions in another. It is also possible for the technician to show the customer his own screen in the interests of giving a system tour or usage instructions without having to grant that prospective buyer an account.
Zoho Assist is particularly suited to product support functions because the remote user has control over the session, which gives outsiders and private individuals the confidence to let the technician get remote access.
Apart from the remote desktop utility, Zoho Assist includes full remote access features that include automation for bulk research and updates across endpoints. For a completely free remote desktop system, check out the Free Edition of Zoho Assist. This package will operate for one technician and allows contact to five remote computers, but only one at a time. Take out the 15-day free trial of the full version of Zoho Assist and when that runs out you will be automatically switched to the Free Edition if you don’t elect to pay for one of the paid plans.
Cloud-based installation makes deployment simple with no need for on-premise onboarding
Is a white-labeled product, ideal for MSPs
Features automation tools that empower technicians to script solutions
Can execute commands prior to remotely connecting
Offers mobile report support for both iOS and Android
More suited for MSPs, and not smaller LAN networks
Would like to see a longer trial period
Zoho Assist Start 15-day FREE Trial
5. N-able Take Control
N-able Take Control is suitable for use by support technicians working for an MSP, or for a company’s IT department. This is a particularly interesting service for independent, freelance support technicians because it includes all of the tools needed to communicate with a user that needs help.
N-able Take Control offers two modes that enable the support of managed devices and access to external customers through a permission system. The technician can get full remote access to the operating system and at the desktop, implementing remote control, which the user can watch or as a remote terminal for unattended access.
- Charged per technician per month
- Cloud-based service
- Client management functions
- For MSPs and outsourced technicians
It even includes a service queueing system.
The service is delivered from the cloud and is charged for by subscription with a rate per technician per month. That means that the entire system is available to independent technicians as well as teams working for MSPs and large organizations.
The remote control access software optionally shows the technician’s actions on the user’s remote screen. It is also possible to access the operating system without going through the desktop of the remote device.
The Take Control system is available at two levels, with the higher level being called Take Control Plus. The higher level is particularly useful for supervised technicians because it includes session monitoring and technician performance reporting functions. Take Control Plus also includes a user survey to evaluate the competence of each technician.
N-able specializes in software packages for managed service providers, so MSPs are the principal market for this tool. However, it can also be useful for in-house support teams. The two operating modes of the system mean that it is good for access to managed devices and also to support external customers.
The service can be paid for by the month or by the year. The annual payment plan works out cheaper. However, be aware that you have to pay for the service period in advance. SolarWinds offers it on a free trial.
Built with MSPs in mind, the product can be white-labeled and is designed for multi-tenant use
Offers a built-in service queuing and ticketing system, making this a good option for newer helps desks looking for those features
Pricing based per technician, not device
Supports user surveys to help measure customer satisfaction
Good fit for both small and large help desk teams
Would benefit from a longer trial period
6. TeamViewer
TeamViewer is an industry leader. This remote desktop system has been installed more than two billion times, which shows its popularity. We put this remote desktop system near the top of our list because it is a very comprehensive commercial product that allows free use by private individuals. However, if you need a remote desktop program for business use, you will have to pay.
TeamViewer is a very widely used remote access package – it has been installed more than two billion times. The package is free for home use. This service can be used to access the screens of computers running Windows, macOS, and Linux and also mobile devices running iOS or Android.
- Remote desktop tool
- Can remote access Windows, Mac OS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
- Free for individuals to use
As the name suggests, TeamViewer is aimed at team collaboration and has a number of group communication features that make this more than just a remote desktop sharing tool. These include video conferencing utilities and demonstration broadcasting.
The remote connection tool relies on two-factor authentication to enhance security and all transmissions are protected by 256-bit AES encryption.
The controller software can be accessed from Android mobile devices. You will be able to access remote devices running Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The system also includes a secure file transfer facility and script execution capabilities in the console.
The TeamViewer system is suitable for use by support teams working for in-house users and also for external customers. It is possible to use this system both for remote control attended access and full control in unattended access mode.
Although you have to pay for the Business Edition of TeamViewer, you can get it for free for an assessment on a 14-day free trial.
Incredibly easy to use
Uses 2FA to initiate sessions
Works well over limited bandwidth connections
Its popularity makes it a popular target for attackers
Free version often terminates early and falsely detects commercial use
Both versions of Teamviewer must be on the same version in order to start a connection
7. Atera
Atera is a support package for managed service providers (MSPs). The service includes all of the utilities that an MSP’s technicians need to manage a remote network and also has a module that assists the managers of the MSP to run the business.
Atera is a cloud platform of systems for managed service providers, but it can also be useful for in-house support teams. The remote access system in the Atera bundle is a third-party tool, called Splashtop. This service includes remote startup and shutdown functions for managed devices and an invite system for external customers who need to keep control over their devices.
- Suitable for MSPs
- Priced per technician
- Free trial for 30 days
The technician support section of Atera is called a “remote monitoring and management” (RMM) system. It includes remote access software and also automated remote administration scripts for maintaining the client’s system. Another utility in the package is a Help Desk system, which includes a portal for access by the user community and a dashboard for use by technicians when they are working on a ticket.
The Help Desk dashboard gives access to a remote desktop system, which is actually Splashtop, which you read about above. The interface includes a chat system so that the technician can guide and advise the user as he explores the remote endpoint and produces a solution for the problem raised on the support ticket.
Atera is designed for use by MSPs because its packages also include professional services automation tools, which MSPs use to run their businesses. However, in-house support teams could also use this package. Per technician pricing makes the Atera system – with access to Splashtop included – really flexible.
Atera is a cloud-based service and is accessed through any standard web browser. The service can also be accessed through a special app that is available for free for mobile devices. The platform is charged for on a monthly or yearly subscription per technician. You can get a 30-day free trial and test the Atera system before you sign up for a subscription.
Built for MSPs and larger helpdesk teams
Works to be an all-in-one solution for remote management
Available as a lightweight cloud service, lowering startup costs for MSPs
Could use better automated remediation features
Moving files over remote connections is clunky at times
Agents don’t always reflect computer name changes in a timely manner
8. Chrome Remote Desktop
You can use a Google Chrome browser as a remote desktop viewer. A remote support version can be used by businesses and it’s absolutely free to use.
The Chrome Remote Desktop system is hard to beat when considering use by individual support technicians on a contract to support one or more remote users. The system is free to use and built into the Chrome Web browser. However, it lacks the team management and supervision systems that business support departments need.
- Part of Google Chrome
- Operates through a standard Google account
- Free to use
You need a Google account in order to use the system, but if you have a Gmail address, then that’s already taken care of. The device that is being accessed needs a program installed on it. This is the agent program. Once that is running you can allow access to anyone by giving them a PIN. The viewer is browser-based and accesses any device over the internet.
The system will work on any operating system that can open Google Chrome and there are also apps for Android and iOS devices. Communications over the internet are protected by HTTPS, which is the same security system that protects credit card information when you buy things on the web.
While great on paper, thinking through how business support teams operate, it soon becomes clear that Chrome Remote Desktop has a very limited user base. A freelance support specialist could use this tool but it is no use for support teams.
9. Microsoft Remote Desktop
Completely free to use
Easy to install and operate
Protects communications via HTTPS
Good for home users and infrequent use
Must have a Google account to use the product
Can only be used in Google Chrome
Not ideal for business use
Microsoft produces a remote desktop connection system that is free to use and grants access to computers running the Windows Professional, Windows Enterprise, or Windows Server operating systems. You can access a remote machine from a mobile device as long as it runs Windows Mobile. It is also possible to use an Xbox One as either the remote device or the accessor.
Microsoft Remote Desktop is a similar prospect to Chrome Remote Desktop. This service is built into the operating system for the business-based editions of Windows and so is easy to set up and costs nothing. However, as with the Chrome package, this tool has no team management functions.
- Can access Windows Server, Windows Professional, or Windows Enterprise
- Remote desktop utility
- Free to use to access up to ten devices
You can access up to ten devices with one Microsoft account through this program. It doesn’t matter where in the world those devices are because the remote desktop system communicates over the internet. A big advantage of this system is its easy integration into the operating system of your computer. There is no user profile restriction on the use of this software, so businesses can use it for free.
The user for Microsoft Remote Desktop is exactly the same as that for the Chrome service. Independent technicians, getting commissions for help from small businesses or individuals could use this tool. It isn’t a viable option for IT support departments or MSPs.
10. Remmina
Completely free to use
Built right into Windows operating system
Manageable via Active Directory and Group Policy
Popular vector of attack for hackers
Misconfiguration could lead to compromised accounts
Lacks basic support features like chat
Only one session can be initiated at once, starting a remote session will kick out the other user
Remmina is an open-source project. Individuals and businesses are allowed to use this remote desktop system for free. There are services on this list that are only available for Windows. Remmina evens the score a little because it is only available for Unix, Linux, Raspberry Pi, and Mac OS. Although you can’t run the console on Windows, the service can contact and control computers with any operating system, including Windows.
If your circumstances mean that Microsoft Remote Desktop would be great for you, only you work on a Mac, Remmina is the right choice for you. Remmina is free to use and you can even get the source code and customize the package. This service lets you support computers running Windows, but it doesn’t install on that operating system. It will run on macOS, Unix, Linux, and Raspberry Pi and it can also contact those operating systems (plus Windows) for support sessions.
- Can access devices with any operating system
- Console software installs on Linux, Mac OS, Unix, and Raspberry Pi.
- Free of charge
The communications options of Remmina deploy a range of protocols, so you can choose between VNC, RDP, XDMCP, or the secure SSH system to reach the remote computer. The console has a tabbed interface, so you can open connections to many remote computers at once. As it is an open-source system, you can also download the code and adapt it to your own requirements.
Remmina is great for an individual support technician, but it isn’t any good for IT support departments or MSPs because it doesn’t have any team management functions.
Choosing remote desktop and remote access software
It is hard to go past Dameware and N-able Take Control as dedicated tools for achieving full control over a network full of remote workstations.
Completely free and open-source project
Lightweight, uses very few resources
Flexible deployment supports Windows, Linux, and Mac
Offers multiple remote protocols such as VNC and RDP
Interface is outdated and can slow down busier helpdesk teams
No paid support option, reliant on the open-source community
Not a great fit for businesses looking for all-in-one helpdesk solutions
If you don’t need as much granularity and control over your network and simply need to get some remote tasks done while away from the desk, then you could try some free software like Chrome Remote Desktop, Microsoft Remote Desktop, and Remmina that work well across a wide range of devices and operating systems.
- Dameware
- Take Control
- ISL Online
- Zoho Assist
- ManageEngine Remote Access Plus
