Discover the best remote control tools to take control of another computer for computer troubleshooting, distance learning, or simply working remotely.
Are you having a problem with your computer and have a friend who knows about it? Do you have a file to recover on a professional computer located at your workplace? This is exactly the situation that requires the use of remote control software.
How does remote control software work?
Typically, to establish a connection, the computer taking control must have the username and password of the remote station. Whether it’s remote work or troubleshooting a computer, the user will find the remote station screen in the window and be able to interact with it.
This procedure is found to varying degrees in most remote connection and management services. But how do you choose the software that suits you best? In order for users to make the right choice, they must first determine their needs: whether it is IT assistance (which requires a person in front of the remote computer to check the connection) or repetitive remote work that requires connection IDs to be accurate at all times. the same and does not require verification during connection.
Then, it is usually the additional features (chat, file transfer, collaboration tools, etc.), connection speed, ease of use, editing capabilities and budget that determine which software is most suitable.
Our pick for the best remote control software
TeamViewer: Pioneer of Remote Control Software
TeamViewer, released in 2005, is one of the first remote management programs and is therefore the benchmark for many users, both individuals and professionals. Easy to use, TeamViewer allows users to easily connect to and control remote devices with just a few clicks. The user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make the software easy to navigate and use, even for users unfamiliar with IT.
Multi-platform, supports various PC and mobile operating systems: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android. Additionally, TeamViewer keeps your remote connection secure with robust security features. It uses advanced encryption protocols to protect data transferred between devices and offers two-factor authentication and password protection options.
For professionals, TeamViewer also stands out for its extensive feature set. It goes beyond the basic remote control capabilities and includes additional features such as file transfer, chat, session recording, and remote printing. There is a free version of the software, as well as subscriptions with options suitable for remote workers, businesses of varying sizes, and IT support centers.
AnyDesk: The Most Popular Alternative
If it’s possible to have an even simpler interface than TeamViewer, it’s AnyDesk. One click and entering an ID makes connecting to a remote computer quick and easy. You can also quickly and easily close a session or block remote user control. It also offers an instant messaging and file transfer module with enhanced security with two-factor authentication, password, encryption keys for data exchange, etc.
Although AnyDesk was launched 10 years after TeamViewer, it has not been left behind and always offers more interesting features for both individuals and businesses. For individuals, connection speed, security and personalization can be critical, while professionals can rely on collaboration tools such as whiteboarding and screen sharing, multiple connections and communications tools.
Another advantage of AnyDesk: it can be used without installing software, since the online version is accessible from any web browser. Available free for a limited number of stations and non-commercial use. The software is also available as a variety of paid subscriptions that allow you to manage several hundred stations and take advantage of additional features.
RustDesk Remote Desktop: An Open Source Alternative
RustDesk Remote Desktop uses the same remote management features as AnyDesk and Teamviewer, including chat, file transfer, device management, and secure login with a unique ID and password. It has five free public servers and offers subscriptions for users with larger needs.
But for businesses, the advantage of RustDesk Remote Desktop is that it can be hosted on your own servers. Individuals can also undertake this task, but it remains difficult despite detailed documentation. Thus, the solution becomes completely free, and user data on private servers is more secure. Administrators will also be able to customize permissions and settings to suit their needs, use end-to-end encrypted P2P connections, and have a simple and practical management console.
Chrome Remote Desktop: Remote control using Google Chrome
Chrome Remote Desktop uses the Google Chrome web browser as a connection gateway to your remote computer. First, you will need to install and configure the software on the remote PC, and then connect using a special extension installed in your browser. A Google account is required to activate the connection. You’ll then be able to access your files, launch programs, and even share your screen with other collaborators.
The service is completely free and could be ideal for remote workers who want to access their desktop PC, as the connection can be made using just your Google login password. That is, someone does not need to enter an ID or check the connection on the remote PC. On the downside, it lacks important features for IT support such as instant messaging or multi-screen connectivity.
Microsoft Remote Desktop: Take control of your Windows computer
Microsoft Remote Desktop is a little more restrictive in that it allows you to connect remotely from any PC or mobile phone, but only to gain control of the Windows device. More focused on remote work and the professional sector, it first requires the installation of a special module on a remote computer running Windows 10/11 (Professional, Enterprise) or Windows Server (2016, 2019, 2022). You have the ability to redirect devices and access clipboard and files (local storage) remotely.
The advantage of this tool is that it is completely free and secure and can keep applications open on the remote Windows PC even if the client software is turned off. For example, you leave your office computer running using Microsoft Remote Desktop when you leave work, then log in to your home computer to perform an important task on your work computer, and then turn off your computer when you leave home so you can continue working . Reconnect the next day while working remotely with your office applications still active.
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