Remote Desktop Access
remote desktop software
“Remote Desktop” redirects here. For other uses, see Remote Desktop (disambiguation). In computing, the term remote desktop refers to a software or operating system feature that allows a PC desktop environment to be run remotely from a system (usually a PC, but the concept).
It applies equally to the server or smartphone and is displayed separately on the client device. Remote desktop applications have different features. Some allow connecting to an existing user session and “remote control”, or display the remote control session or clear the screen. Remote desktop takeover is a form of remote administration.
Protocols
Remote desktop protocols include:
- Apple Remote Desktop Protocol (ARD) – The primary protocol for Apple Remote Desktop on macOS devices.
- Appliance Link Protocol (ALP) – A Sun Microsystems-specific protocol that features audio (playback and recording), remote printing, remote USB, and accelerated video.
- HP Remote Graphics Software (RGS) – a proprietary protocol designed by Hewlett-Packard specifically for remote and advanced workstation collaboration.
- Autonomous Computing Architecture (ICA) – a proprietary protocol designed by Citrix Systems
- NX Technology (NX) is a proprietary protocol designed by NoMachine with open-source derivatives available from other forked projects.
- PC-over-IP (PCoIP) – a proprietary protocol used by VMware (licensed from Teradici)
- Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) – A Windows-specific protocol that provides remote audio and printing.
- Remote Frame Buffer (RFB) protocol – A cross-platform frame buffer layer protocol based on VNC.
- SPICE (Simple Protocol for Standalone Computing Environments) – Remote display system developed by Qumranet, now Red Hat, for virtual environments.
- Splashtop – A high-performance remote desktop protocol developed by Splashtop, fully optimized for hardware (H.264) including Intel/AMD, NVIDIA/ATI GPU & APU, Qualcomm Snapdragon, and NVIDIA Tegra chipsets. Splashtop can deliver high frame rates with low latency and power consumption by optimizing for different media codec profiles by optimizing for other media codec profiles.
- Xpra – a protocol initially developed to deliver X11 applications seamlessly with audio, video, remote printing, etc. – extended to support Windows and macOS servers
- X Window System (X11) – A well-established cross-platform protocol used primarily for displaying native applications. X11 is Network-
transparent - Wake-on-LAN – A standard protocol for remotely waking up computers that are in a low-power state (shut down but still have access to a power source.
How to use Remote Desktop
WINDOWS 10
Use Remote Desktop on your Windows, Android, or iOS device to remotely connect to your Windows 10 PC. Here’s how to set up your PC to allow remote connections and then connect to the computer you set up.
Note: While a remote desktop server (such as the computer you’re connecting to) must be running a professional edition of Windows, a client machine (the device you’re connecting from) can be running any edition of Windows (Pro or Home), or even a different operating system.
Start the computer you want to connect to allow remote connection:
Make sure you have Windows 10 Pro.
Click Start > Settings > System > About to check this and search for Edition. For information on how to get Windows 10 Pro, go to Upgrading Windows 10 Home to Windows 10 Pro. When you’re ready, select Start > Settings > System > Remote Desktop and turn on Enable Remote Desktop. Write down its name.
This computer is in the section on how to connect to this computer. You will need this later. Use Remote Desktop to connect to the computer you set up:
On your local Windows computer:
In the search box on the taskbar, type Remote Desktop Connection, then select Remote Desktop Connection. In Remote Desktop Connection, type the name of the computer you want to connect to (from Step 1), then choose Connect.
On your Windows, Android, or iOS device: Open the Remote Desktop app (available for free in the Microsoft Store, Google Play, and Mac App Store) and add the PC name you want to connect to (from step 1). ). Select the name of the remote computer you said, then wait for the connection to complete.
WINDOWS 11
Start the computer you want to connect to allow remote connection:
Make sure you have Windows 11 Pro. To check this, select Start and open Settings. Then select About in the System section and search for Edition in the Windows specifications section.
For information on how to get Windows 11 Pro, go to Upgrading Windows Home to Windows Pro.
Select Start and open Settings. Then, under System, select Remote Desktop, set Remote Desktop to On, and choose Confirm. Note the name of this PC under the PC name.
WINDOWS 11
Start the computer you want to connect to allow remote connection:
Make sure you have Windows 11 Pro. To check this, select Start and open Settings. Then select About in the System section and search for Edition in the Windows specifications section.
For information on how to get Windows 11 Pro, go to Upgrading Windows Home to Windows Pro.
Select Start and open Settings. Then, under System, select Remote Desktop, set Remote Desktop to On, and choose Confirm. Note the name of this PC under the PC name.
Use the REMOTE DESKTOP to connect to the computer you’ve set up:
In the search box on the taskbar, type Remote Desktop Connection, then select Remote Desktop Connection. In Remote Desktop Connection, type the name of the computer you want to connect to (from Step 1), then choose Connect.
On your WINDOWS, ANDROID, or IOS device:
Open the Remote Desktop app (free in the Microsoft Store, Google Play, and Mac App Store) and add the computer name you want to connect to (from step 1). ). Select the name of the remote computer you said, then wait for the connection to complete.
What is Remote Desktop Access?
Remote access enables users to connect to resources in other locations. Remote desktop access tools take this even further, allowing users to access the computer from anywhere through Internet-based controllers.
What is unattended remote access?
With unattended remote access, spontaneous or on-demand remote access, remote agents are installed on all remote devices or servers. This allows users to access these devices anytime without waiting for the device to accept the connection.
What is remote access used for?
Here are some of the most common applications for remote access:
Improved remote productivity: Individual users can use remote desktop access to view and edit their files as easily as if they were sitting in their regular cubicle or office.
This helps maintain productivity when an employee travels or has to work from home. Programs such as Microsoft OneDrive, Dropbox, and Google Drive are among the most common platforms allowing employees to access and edit their documents outside the local Network.
Collaboration across dispersed teams: A company may be headquartered in New York but have satellite offices in Zurich, Raleigh, or Chicago.
Keeping teams on the same page when separated by miles, mountains, and oceans is no easy task. This is where the remote comes into play. Remote access facilitates peer-to-peer relationships through screen sharing for training presentations and large team meetings. Many employees feel they are in the same room as their intercontinental colleagues.
Providing technical support: This is perhaps the most common use of remote access among IT technicians.
Leveraging robust remote access software, IT managers and their teams can directly control their employees’ workstations—including desktops, mice, keyboards, and more—no matter where they are. When something goes wrong, whether an app won’t open or a document refuses to download, IT teams can easily connect to user workstations to troubleshoot the problem.
Connect a wireless display to your Windows PC:
Windows 11
- MIRACAST wireless displays
- Connect your PC wirelessly to a TV, projector, another PC, or any other external display that supports Miracast.
- Turn on your TV or project. If you use a Miracast dongle or adapter, connect to the display.
- On your PC, make sure Wi-Fi is turned on.
- On the right side of the taskbar, select the Network> Cast icon, then choose your display or wireless adapter.
- Follow any instructions on the next page. Otherwise, you’re done.
- WIGIG wireless displays
- Connect your PC wirelessly to a monitor, projector, or other external display connected to the WiG Dock.
- Turn on the TV or projector.
- Please turn on your WiG dock and ensure it’s connected to the display.
- Make sure your computer supports WiG and is turned on. If your PC supports WiG, you’ll see a WiGig control under Control> Network and Internet > Airplane Status.
- To the right of the task, select the Network icon > Cast, and choose them yourself.
- Follow any instructions on the next page. Otherwise, you’re done.
The best remote access software
I’ve talked about the features you should look for in remote access software, but how can you be sure you’re investing your company’s resources in the right product? To answer the question of what is the best remote access software, here are my favorite paid tools:
My favorite remote support software is Dameware Remote Everywhere (DRE) from SolarWinds. This compelling cloud-based remote solution enables IT professionals to access virtually any platform or device. Shutdown, sleeping, and even crashed workstations can be accessed via Intel vPro with AMT, Wake-on-LAN, and KVM. This means technicians don’t have to wait for the user to return to their computer before starting troubleshooting.
DRE facilitates resolution through screen sharing, live chat, and video conferencing. These features help end-users stay up-to-date and up-to-date while allowing technicians to gather the details and critical data they need to resolve issues quickly and efficiently.
But security is even more important than speed and efficiency; in this regard, DRE ranks second. The platform implements advanced encryption protocols, two-factor authentication, and multi-level authorizations to protect your company against the most sophisticated hackers.
SolarWinds Dameware remote support
Another remote access offering from SolarWinds, Dameware Remote Support (DRS), is a built-in software with the same capabilities as Dameware Remote Everywhere:
- DR includes Dameware Mini Remote Control, which enables cross-platform remote access to Windows, Mac, and Linux devices.
- DRS offers unlimited endpoint agents per license, enabling mass deployment of agents to devices and integration with help desk software:
- The tool includes 24/7 remote assistance and the ability to manage Active Directory environments and provide support for iOS and Android devices.
- If you’re wondering which SolarWinds product is right for your business, the company compares DRE and DRS comprehensively. Both offer free trial solutions to help you decide.
Remote computer
I like REMOTEPC from IDRIVE because:
It is easy to use. It has a shallow learning curve, so even new technicians can hit the ground running with this remote support tool. Installation is simple; remote devices are typically authenticated in seconds. Once the application runs, IT technicians can transfer files, chat with end users, and print remotely.
RemotePC’s capabilities are extensive but not nearly as comprehensive as DRE’s. RemotePC is an excellent choice for companies with no-frills programs to do the job well without bells and whistles. If you’re looking for something more sophisticated with the ability to run local batch scripts or perform reboots and reconnects, I’d suggest going with SolarWinds DRE.
✓ TeamViewer
TeamViewer is designed with large companies in mind. Collaborative meeting tools and remote support come together in this tool, helping employees in offices worldwide increase productivity and stay connected.
Versatility is the game’s name with TeamViewer: it’s available on Windows, OS X, Linux, Android, and iOS. Can connect to out-of-band computers. And it facilitates file transfer, iOS screen sharing, and much more.
TeamViewer has a high price due to its wide range of features. The cost is worth it for large companies, but smaller organizations may find it prohibitive.
✓ Zoho Assist
At the other end of the spectrum is Zoho Assist. This tool was built with small businesses in mind, especially those without a complex help desk system. But while Zoho Assist isn’t as powerful as other remote access software, it’s still mighty.
Platform users are equipped to set up unattended remote access and manage PCs, laptops, mobile devices, and remote servers with unparalleled ease. It only takes a few seconds to support customers who need to reboot.
Additionally, like the other big dogs, Zoho Assist offers file transfer, instant chat, and remote printing:
If you are responsible for managing the IT of a small business, this affordable tool may be just what you are looking for.
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✓ Splashtop
I like Splashtop because it offers two unique services: remote desktop for individuals and teams and remote Control for IT and support teams. Each service is exceptional, and both are very effective. With Splashtop Remote Desktop, employees can access their Windows and Mac PCs via smartphone, tablet, or any other computer. This makes it easy to transfer files, print remotely, and more while on the go or working from home.
Splashtop Remote Support provides unattended remote access for IT technicians to resolve end-user issues quickly. Its features include remote reboot and reboot, session recording, in-session chat, and more. But even though an unlimited number of technicians can use the platform, you are charged per unattended endpoint.
✓ Take Control
Last but not least, let’s take a look at the controls. It’s a specialized tool for managed service providers (MSPs) designed to help you deliver IT support at scale without complicating or slowing down the process.
Control the SW
Take Control is a remote support software with a practical, centralized dashboard. You can view in-depth diagnostics of your customers’ devices and networks from there. It can connect to remote devices in seconds, making it easy to provide first-class customer service.
Another great thing about Take Control is that it offers a complete set of customization options. This allows you to configure the software to meet your needs and add custom branding.
The best free software for remote desktop
While my picks for the best paid remote desktop software are listed above, there are also many free versions if you’re on a tight budget. These platforms are not as complex as their paid counterparts.
They can also help you remotely manage workstations, storage, and network resources throughout your company’s offices. Here are some of my favorites:
Chrome Remote Desktop
It’s an essential tool for free remote desktop connections, but don’t be fooled by its simplicity. As long as the client and host computer have Chrome installed, users can use the platform to connect to their desktops while traveling or working from home. This means the files, folders, and documents they need are right there, keeping productivity high.
Chrome Remote Desktop
It’s great for long-distance connections, but its overall service is limited. It’s the perfect introductory tool for any young company looking to dip its toes into remote access.
