Best Remote Desktop Software Alternatives to TeamViewer

Remote desktop software allows you to control a PC over the internet almost as if you were physically present. You can launch applications, work with files, change settings, or help someone troubleshoot their computer from another city or country.

TeamViewer has long been among the most recognizable solutions for these tasks, but it's far from the only one. Today's remote access programs vary in free usage terms, supported platforms, extra features, and connection methods. Some are ideal for occasional family tech support, others for constant access to your own computer, and a few even let you deploy your own server to avoid third-party infrastructure.

How We Chose the Best Remote Desktop Programs

When selecting a remote desktop program, it's important to consider more than image quality or connection speed. For regular use, you might need automatic connection without confirmation, file transfer, multi-monitor support, and compatibility with different operating systems.

Free version limitations are also crucial. Some software advertised as free restricts commercial use, the number of devices, or access to certain features. There's no universal solution for every scenario.

Top Alternatives to TeamViewer

AnyDesk

AnyDesk is one of the most popular TeamViewer alternatives. It's available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, ChromeOS, and more. Connecting is simple: just run AnyDesk on both devices and enter the remote computer's address-perfect for providing quick tech support without complex network setup or IP searching.

AnyDesk offers a free mode for personal, non-commercial use. The company clearly distinguishes personal and professional scenarios: work, paid tech support, or office access require a commercial license. It's ideal for occasional access to your home PC or helping friends and family, but regular remote work may run into free tier restrictions.

RustDesk

RustDesk stands out by letting you use open infrastructure and deploy your own server. Clients are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and via web interface.

The average user doesn't need to set up a server right away-RustDesk works like a regular remote desktop app. But self-hosting is a major draw for those who want more control over their infrastructure. With the free RustDesk Server OSS, you can host your own identification and relay servers, keeping these components under your own roof.

This approach requires more technical know-how than installing TeamViewer or AnyDesk: you'll need to configure servers, networks, and clients, and maintain your infrastructure. Still, RustDesk is attractive for home labs, small businesses, or anyone who values hands-on control over their remote access system.

Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop is all about simplicity. Google's service lets you access your computer from another PC, phone, or tablet, or temporarily share your screen for remote help.

The biggest perk: minimal setup. No need to manage network ports or organize device connections-once set up, your remote computer is accessible via your Google Account. Chrome Remote Desktop is perfect when you need a forgotten file or program from home while traveling, or for users who only occasionally need remote access without installing more complex systems.

Its professional toolset is limited compared to dedicated solutions, so for full technical support, managing many computers, or complex enterprise setups, you'll need more advanced software.

Windows Remote Desktop

Windows comes with its own built-in remote desktop technology-Remote Desktop. It lets you connect and access installed programs, files, and the desktop itself.

The main difference from TeamViewer and similar services is that you don't need to install extra software to receive connections on supported Windows versions. The feature is enabled through system settings.

However, only Windows Professional, Enterprise, Education, or Server editions can act as hosts; Windows Home can only connect to other devices, not receive connections. Remote Desktop is especially handy for managing another PC or server on a local network. Internet access requires careful network and security setup, so built-in RDP isn't a direct TeamViewer replacement for every user.

Other Noteworthy TeamViewer Alternatives

Beyond AnyDesk, RustDesk, and Windows tools, there are lesser-known remote access programs-some are notable for their free usage terms, others for regular work with remote machines.

Remote Utilities

Remote Utilities lets you control remote devices over the internet or a local network. The free license is for a single user and up to 10 remote computers, and the developer allows both personal and commercial use.

This makes Remote Utilities a strong option for a handful of work PCs, a home lab, or system admins. It features an address book and persistent access, though its interface and setup can be more complex than AnyDesk or Chrome Remote Desktop.

DWService

DWService works a bit differently: install a lightweight agent on the remote machine, then connect via browser-no dedicated client needed for basic scenarios.

All core features are free for individuals and businesses, but the free tier limits bandwidth to 6 Mbps. The DWService agent is open source. This setup is great for occasional management when you want browser-based access from almost any computer.

Splashtop

Splashtop targets ongoing remote work and professional use. Paid plans offer unattended access, file transfer, and remote printing; higher tiers add multi-monitor support, session recording, and user management.

There's a free Personal version, but it's mostly for connections within a home Wi-Fi network. For internet-based access or regular remote work, you'll need a paid plan.

Comparison Table: Best Remote Desktop Software

Free Usage and Limitations

If you need a truly free remote desktop program, licensing terms can matter more than feature lists. For example, AnyDesk's free version is only for personal use, while Remote Utilities lets a single user manage up to 10 computers even commercially.

RustDesk is unique in not relying on the traditional cloud model: users can host their own server, gaining full control-though at the cost of extra setup. DWService is also free for organizations, but free connections are limited by bandwidth-enough for basic admin, but noticeable for heavy graphics or video.

Chrome Remote Desktop remains the simplest option for casual users, supporting Windows, macOS, and Linux, with mobile device access as well.

Cross-Platform Support: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS

If all your devices run Windows, your choices are especially broad-use both third-party solutions and Windows' built-in Remote Desktop. For mixed-operating-system environments, cross-platform clients are preferable. AnyDesk, RustDesk, and Chrome Remote Desktop allow connections between computers and mobile devices, not just Windows.

Remote Utilities also offers viewers for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Note, however, that some clients for macOS and Linux are developed separately from the main Windows version, so check feature support on your chosen platform before deployment.

File Transfer and Extra Features

For occasional connections, viewing and controlling the screen may be enough. For ongoing work, requirements grow: you'll want to transfer files, use multiple monitors, reboot the remote machine, and reconnect without someone present on the other side.

Most specialized programs offer these features, though availability may depend on your subscription tier. For example, Splashtop includes file transfer in basic plans, but multi-monitor and advanced management tools are only in premium plans.

So, don't compare remote desktop programs by connection speed alone. For home use, simplicity and a free tier matter more; for regular work, look for unattended access, stability, multi-device management, and admin tools.

How to Choose the Right Remote Desktop Program

Your choice should depend on how often you connect and to which devices. Home PC access doesn't require the same tools as supporting dozens of workstations, and running your own server is not for everyone.

For Simple Home Access

If you just need to occasionally open files or run programs on your home PC, Chrome Remote Desktop remains one of the easiest options. After setup, your computer appears in the device list, and you connect using a preset PIN. Google supports remote access for Windows, macOS, and Linux, including mobile devices.

This suits users who don't need extensive admin tools-no need to deal with IP addresses or manual port forwarding, as the service handles internet connectivity for you.

On Windows, you can use built-in Remote Desktop, especially for home or office networks. But only Windows Professional, Enterprise, Education, and Server editions can host RDP connections; Windows Home may act as a client but not as a host.

For Free Remote Access

If your main goal is a free TeamViewer alternative, first decide if it's just for home or also for work.

AnyDesk allows free use for non-commercial scenarios: connecting to your own devices or helping friends and family. For work, paid tech support, or business device access, a license is required.

This is convenient for personal use. If you want a free tool with server-side control, RustDesk is more appealing. Its open-source client and the free RustDesk Server OSS let you run your own ID and relay services.

When picking a free program, focus on licensing terms, not just a Free button-restrictions may apply to commercial use, device count, session duration, or extra features.

For Work and Tech Support

For regular remote work, you need more: unattended access without confirmation, file transfers, a handy device list, and easy reconnections after reboots.

Consider professional plans from AnyDesk, Splashtop, and similar tools. AnyDesk, for example, distinguishes free personal access from professional use, and advanced management features are for paid licenses.

For small infrastructures, Remote Utilities may suffice-especially for admins managing several fixed computers. In larger organizations, centralized device management, user permissions, connection logs, and fast access revocation become crucial.

For Your Own Server

If you want to avoid relying on a vendor's infrastructure, RustDesk is the standout. You can deploy the free Server OSS on your own server or VM. The server includes the hbbs identification component and hbbr relay for when direct P2P connections aren't possible.

For most self-hosted setups, the recommended method is Docker-it's easier to migrate, update, and restore. Still, you'll have to manage your own server, network settings, ports, updates, and security.

A dedicated server is especially useful for home labs, small businesses, or users who need total control over their remote access infrastructure. For typical home PC access, this may be overkill-Chrome Remote Desktop, AnyDesk, or a similar service require much less setup.

If your computer stays off most of the time, you can set it to power on remotely using Wake-on-LAN. For step-by-step setup, see How to Remotely Turn On Your PC Using Wake-on-LAN.

Securing Remote Access to Your Computer

Remote access software essentially hands over control of your computer, so its security must be as strong as that of your Windows or macOS account-especially with unattended access enabled.

Tools like AnyDesk or RustDesk don't automatically make your system vulnerable. Most risks stem from weak passwords, misconfigured permissions, and social engineering. Agencies like CISA and NSA recommend multi-factor authentication, the principle of least privilege, and monitoring which remote management tools are installed on devices.

Permanent Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication

If a program allows unattended access, never use a short or repeated password. This mode lets someone connect without you at the screen-if the password is compromised, an attacker gets in.

Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. For example, AnyDesk can secure Unattended Access with a one-time code from an authenticator app. Even if the password leaks, a second factor is needed to connect.

Don't save automatic logins on shared or public computers. The device you use for management should be password-protected, locked when idle, and fully updated.

Never Share Your Connection Code

Remote desktop tools are often abused by scammers, not just system admins. Someone might call posing as a bank, tech support, or telecom employee and ask you to install remote software and share your code or confirm a session.

If an unknown person calls and asks you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or similar, never grant them access. It's especially risky to open online banking, enter passwords, confirmation codes, or card details during such a session.

For one-time help, only give access to a trusted expert and confirm the session yourself. Afterward, close the connection and disable any unnecessary persistent access.

When to Disable Unattended Access

Unattended access is convenient for your own PC, server, or work computer you access regularly. If you only use remote access a few times a year, there's usually no need to keep it always enabled.

After providing tech support, review your list of remote management programs and ensure there are no lingering agents with persistent access. CISA specifically recommends organizations keep track of used remote tools and regularly audit their configurations, as legitimate RMM tools can also be exploited by attackers.

If you do need persistent access, limit remote user rights to only what's necessary, enable two-factor authentication, and keep your remote client updated. For example, changing the Unattended Access password in AnyDesk invalidates previously created authorization tokens-useful if you lose or replace a device.

Conclusion

Today, remote desktop access is possible without relying on TeamViewer. Chrome Remote Desktop is great for simple home access, AnyDesk is convenient for one-off help and personal use, and RustDesk is appealing for those who value open source and the option to deploy their own server.

If you need a tool for work, consider not just the free version but also its commercial terms, persistent access, file transfer, multi-device support, and admin tools. For small infrastructures, Remote Utilities and DWService may be helpful, while Splashtop is more targeted at professional scenarios.

The most important thing is to choose software for your specific needs. There's no point in building your own infrastructure for rare connections, but for ongoing remote administration, plan ahead with strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and strict access control.