# Best Remote Desktop Software ## How Many Remote Desktop Software Products Does G2 Track? **Total Products under this Category:** 138 ### Category Stats (Jul 2026) - **Average Rating:** 4.45/5 The average rating of products in this category, based on all submitted ratings - **Top Trending Product:** TightVNC (+0.58%) - Among all products in this category, TightVNC recorded the largest rating increase compared to last month _Last updated: July 27, 2026_ ## How Does G2 Rank Remote Desktop Software Products? **Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:** - 30 Analysts and Data Experts - 16,100+ Authentic Reviews - 138+ Products - Unbiased Rankings G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category. ## G2 Grid® for Remote Desktop Software ![G2 Grid® for Remote Desktop Software plotting products by satisfaction and market presence](https://www.g2.com/categories/remote-desktop/grids.png?focus%5B%5D=2397&focus%5B%5D=15890&focus%5B%5D=70792&focus%5B%5D=139592&focus%5B%5D=15101&focus%5B%5D=55794&focus%5B%5D=32592&focus%5B%5D=13662) Highlighted products: TeamViewer, Zoho Assist, Action1, Microsoft Quick Assist, Chrome Remote Desktop, RemotePC, Splashtop Remote Access, and AnyDesk. Underlying data: [Grid® JSON](https://www.g2.com/categories/remote-desktop/grids.json?focus%5B%5D=teamviewer&focus%5B%5D=zoho-assist&focus%5B%5D=action1&focus%5B%5D=microsoft-quick-assist&focus%5B%5D=chrome-remote-desktop&focus%5B%5D=remotepc&focus%5B%5D=splashtop-remote-access&focus%5B%5D=anydesk) **Sponsored** ### Cobrowse.io Cobrowse is a collaborative browsing solution, designed to augment remote sales and support engagements with real-time human interaction. With Cobrowse, agents can offer tailored guidance to customers as they navigate any of your digital channels, on desktop and mobile, across the web or native iOS and Android mobile applications. The same powerful suite of tools is available for both web and mobile co-browsing: - Laser pointer - Annotation - Remote Control - Full Device Screen Share - Agent Present Mode With Universal Co-browsing, agents can stay in contact with customers as they browse third-party content, websites, and applications. The full suite of agent tools remains available across third-party content, allowing agents to provide personalized guidance throughout the customers’ digital journey. Seamless integration with enterprise CRM and CX solutions enables agents to escalate complex sales and support tickets to a collaborative browsing session without leaving the host interface. A range of flexible session initialization options and a fully customizable UI make the transition frictionless and provide a consistently branded experience across all channels. Current integrations include: - Salesforce - Genesys - Zendesk - Talkdesk - Intercom - Freshworks Cobrowse prioritizes data security, with compliant data redaction a key differentiator for businesses that deal with sensitive or private customer data. Private-by-default functionality means no images, text, or other content will be displayed unless specifically added to the allowlist, maintaining compliance with strict data protection regulations. For auditability, you can record every action the customer and agent take during a co-browsing session. Session replays provide an accurate, tamper-proof record of every interaction, which can be used for dispute resolution, to understand better how users navigate your digital platforms, or to improve agent training. For the ultimate in security, the same Cobrowse software that runs in the cloud is also available for enterprises to self-host in their cloud accounts, run in their on-premises data centers, or even deploy to air-gapped, protected networks. Proven to enhance customer and agent satisfaction, Cobrowse is trusted by businesses worldwide that prioritize customer service excellence. Co-browsing is used widely within remote sales and support environments to efficiently resolve complex enquiries and provide outstanding service when customers need it most. [Visit website](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bad_program%5D=ppc&secure%5Bad_slot%5D=category_product_list&secure%5Bcategory_id%5D=890&secure%5Bchosen_at%5D=2026-07-28T10%3A37%3A05Z&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_id%5D=1207&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bmedium%5D=sponsored&secure%5Bplacement_reason%5D=neighbor_category&secure%5Bplacement_resource_ids%5D%5B%5D=1207&secure%5Bprioritized%5D=false&secure%5Bproduct_id%5D=126970&secure%5Bresource_id%5D=890&secure%5Bresource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bsource_type%5D=category_page&secure%5Bsource_url%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.g2.com%2Fcategories%2Fremote-desktop%3Fopen_modal_url%3D%252Fproducts%252Fparallels-desktop-for-mac%252Fwishlists%253Fhost_path%253D%25252Fcategories%25252Fremote-desktop%2526source%253Dcategory&secure%5Btoken%5D=7f93c65a7c45a1c2e36a2ffb11ff9110c145c314d345bd59f8a35b80a46e8a7b&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fcobrowse.io%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=company_website) [ TeamViewer ](https://www.g2.com/products/teamviewer/reviews) By [TeamViewer](https://www.g2.com/sellers/teamviewer) [ 4.5/5(4,056) ](https://www.g2.com/products/teamviewer/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the software for its ease of use and reliable remote access, making it a preferred choice for remote support and collaboration. Many appreciate its intuitive interface and qu Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (518) ](https://www.g2.com/products/teamviewer/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Connection Issues (181) ](https://www.g2.com/products/teamviewer/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ Zoho Assist ](https://www.g2.com/products/zoho-assist/reviews) By [Zoho](https://www.g2.com/sellers/zoho-b00ca9d5-bca8-41b5-a8ad-275480841704) [ 4.7/5(713) ](https://www.g2.com/products/zoho-assist/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the ease of use and reliable performance of Zoho Assist, highlighting its ability to facilitate quick remote support without complex setups. The software is particularly valu Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (138) ](https://www.g2.com/products/zoho-assist/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Remote Access Issues (30) ](https://www.g2.com/products/zoho-assist/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ Action1 ](https://www.g2.com/products/action1/reviews) By [Action1](https://www.g2.com/sellers/action1) [ 4.9/5(1,148) ](https://www.g2.com/products/action1/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the ease of use and automation features of Action1, which simplify patch management and endpoint monitoring. The intuitive interface and quick setup allow for efficient manag Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (375) ](https://www.g2.com/products/action1/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Missing Features (171) ](https://www.g2.com/products/action1/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ Microsoft Quick Assist ](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-quick-assist/reviews) By [Microsoft](https://www.g2.com/sellers/microsoft) [ 4.4/5(34) ](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-quick-assist/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the ease of use and quick access provided by Microsoft Quick Assist, highlighting its seamless integration into Windows. The ability to troubleshoot and assist others without Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (1) ](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-quick-assist/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ Chrome Remote ](https://www.g2.com/products/chrome-remote-desktop/reviews) By [Google](https://www.g2.com/sellers/google) [ 4.2/5(53) ](https://www.g2.com/products/chrome-remote-desktop/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the product for its ease of use and quick setup, making remote access straightforward for both personal and professional needs. Many appreciate the ability to connect from va Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (1) ](https://www.g2.com/products/chrome-remote-desktop/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Chat (1) ](https://www.g2.com/products/chrome-remote-desktop/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ RemotePC ](https://www.g2.com/products/remotepc/reviews) By [IDrive](https://www.g2.com/sellers/idrive) [ 4.7/5(665) ](https://www.g2.com/products/remotepc/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the ease of use and quick setup of RemotePC, highlighting its intuitive interface that allows for seamless remote access. Many appreciate its reliable performance, which enha Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (96) ](https://www.g2.com/products/remotepc/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Slow Performance (18) ](https://www.g2.com/products/remotepc/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ Splashtop Remote Access ](https://www.g2.com/products/splashtop-remote-access/reviews) By [Splashtop Inc.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/splashtop-inc) [ 4.8/5(517) ](https://www.g2.com/products/splashtop-remote-access/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the ease of use and reliable performance of Splashtop Remote Access, highlighting its ability to facilitate quick and efficient remote support. Many appreciate its straightfo Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (61) ](https://www.g2.com/products/splashtop-remote-access/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Remote Access Issues (22) ](https://www.g2.com/products/splashtop-remote-access/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ AnyDesk ](https://www.g2.com/products/anydesk/reviews) By [AnyDesk Software GmbH](https://www.g2.com/sellers/anydesk-software-gmbh) [ 4.5/5(1,101) ](https://www.g2.com/products/anydesk/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the software for its ease of use and fast, stable connections, making remote access and support straightforward even for those with limited technical skills. Many appreciate Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (29) ](https://www.g2.com/products/anydesk/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Connection Issues (9) ](https://www.g2.com/products/anydesk/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ ScreenConnect ](https://www.g2.com/products/screenconnect/reviews) By [ConnectWise](https://www.g2.com/sellers/connectwise) [ 4.7/5(504) ](https://www.g2.com/products/screenconnect/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the software for its fast and reliable remote access, which allows for seamless troubleshooting and support across various devices. The intuitive interface and strong securit Pros and Cons [ Reliability (5) ](https://www.g2.com/products/screenconnect/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Expensive (4) ](https://www.g2.com/products/screenconnect/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ Remote Desktop ](https://www.g2.com/products/remote-desktop-services/reviews) By [Microsoft](https://www.g2.com/sellers/microsoft) [ 4.5/5(141) ](https://www.g2.com/products/remote-desktop-services/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the ease of use and convenience of Remote Desktop Services, highlighting its ability to facilitate remote access to work resources from anywhere. Many appreciate the user-fri Pros and Cons [ Easy Setup (1) ](https://www.g2.com/products/remote-desktop-services/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ Azure Bastion ](https://www.g2.com/products/azure-bastion/reviews) By [Microsoft](https://www.g2.com/sellers/microsoft) [ 4.5/5(16) ](https://www.g2.com/products/azure-bastion/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the secure connection Azure Bastion provides for accessing virtual machines directly through the Azure portal, eliminating the need for public IPs or VPNs. The product is not Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (1) ](https://www.g2.com/products/azure-bastion/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Expensive (1) ](https://www.g2.com/products/azure-bastion/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ ISL Online ](https://www.g2.com/products/isl-online/reviews) By [PDQ.com](https://www.g2.com/sellers/pdq-com) [ 4.6/5(610) ](https://www.g2.com/products/isl-online/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the ease of use and reliable connections provided by ISL Online, making it a preferred choice for remote support. The intuitive interface and quick setup allow technicians to Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (43) ](https://www.g2.com/products/isl-online/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Remote Access Issues (12) ](https://www.g2.com/products/isl-online/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ BeyondTrust Remote Support ](https://www.g2.com/products/beyondtrust-remote-support/reviews) By [BeyondTrust](https://www.g2.com/sellers/beyondtrust) [ 4.7/5(388) ](https://www.g2.com/products/beyondtrust-remote-support/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the ease of use and robust security features of BeyondTrust Remote Support, highlighting its ability to facilitate quick and secure remote assistance across various platforms Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (26) ](https://www.g2.com/products/beyondtrust-remote-support/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Expensive (10) ](https://www.g2.com/products/beyondtrust-remote-support/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ Syncro ](https://www.g2.com/products/syncro/reviews) By [Syncro Technologies Inc.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/syncro-technologies-inc) [ 4.5/5(534) ](https://www.g2.com/products/syncro/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise Syncro for its ease of use and integrated ticketing system, which streamline IT management tasks and enhance productivity. The platform's ability to centralize various functi Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (237) ](https://www.g2.com/products/syncro/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Missing Features (105) ](https://www.g2.com/products/syncro/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) [ Apple Remote ](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-remote-desktop/reviews) By [Apple](https://www.g2.com/sellers/apple) [ 4.3/5(53) ](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-remote-desktop/reviews) What do users say? Users consistently praise the ease of use and reliable performance of Apple Remote Desktop, making it a valuable tool for managing multiple Macs efficiently. Many appreciate its ability to streamline Pros and Cons [ Ease of Use (2) ](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-remote-desktop/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[ Connection Issues (2) ](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-remote-desktop/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) - ‹ Prev‹ Prev - 1 - [2](/categories/remote-desktop?open_modal_url=%2Fproducts%2Fparallels-desktop-for-mac%2Fwishlists%3Fhost_path%3D%252Fcategories%252Fremote-desktop%26source%3Dcategory&order=g2_score&page=2#product-list) - [3](/categories/remote-desktop?open_modal_url=%2Fproducts%2Fparallels-desktop-for-mac%2Fwishlists%3Fhost_path%3D%252Fcategories%252Fremote-desktop%26source%3Dcategory&order=g2_score&page=3#product-list) - [4](/categories/remote-desktop?open_modal_url=%2Fproducts%2Fparallels-desktop-for-mac%2Fwishlists%3Fhost_path%3D%252Fcategories%252Fremote-desktop%26source%3Dcategory&order=g2_score&page=4#product-list) - [5](/categories/remote-desktop?open_modal_url=%2Fproducts%2Fparallels-desktop-for-mac%2Fwishlists%3Fhost_path%3D%252Fcategories%252Fremote-desktop%26source%3Dcategory&order=g2_score&page=5#product-list) - … - [9](/categories/remote-desktop?open_modal_url=%2Fproducts%2Fparallels-desktop-for-mac%2Fwishlists%3Fhost_path%3D%252Fcategories%252Fremote-desktop%26source%3Dcategory&order=g2_score&page=9#product-list) - [10](/categories/remote-desktop?open_modal_url=%2Fproducts%2Fparallels-desktop-for-mac%2Fwishlists%3Fhost_path%3D%252Fcategories%252Fremote-desktop%26source%3Dcategory&order=g2_score&page=10#product-list) - [Next ›Next ›](/categories/remote-desktop?open_modal_url=%2Fproducts%2Fparallels-desktop-for-mac%2Fwishlists%3Fhost_path%3D%252Fcategories%252Fremote-desktop%26source%3Dcategory&order=g2_score&page=2#product-list) Spotlight Categories [Cloud Content Collaboration Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/cloud-content-collaboration) [Job Search Sites](https://www.g2.com/categories/job-search-sites) [Environmental Health and Safety Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/environmental-health-and-safety) [Virtual Data Room Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/virtual-data-room-vdr) [Quality Management Systems (QMS)](https://www.g2.com/categories/quality-management-qms) Similar Categories - [Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)](/categories/infrastructure-as-a-service-iaas) - [Active Metadata Management](/categories/active-metadata-management) - [Address Verification](/categories/address-verification) - [AIOps Platforms](/categories/aiops-platforms) - [Application Server](/categories/application-server) - [Blockchain](/categories/blockchain) - [Cloud File Storage](/categories/cloud-file-storage) - [Database Software](/categories/database-software) - [Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM)](/categories/data-center-infrastructure-management-dcim) - [Data Center Networking](/categories/data-center-networking) - [Data Exchange Platforms](/categories/data-exchange-platforms) - [Data Fabric](/categories/data-fabric) - [Data Integration Tools](/categories/data-integration-tools) - [Data Management Software](/categories/data-management-software) - [Data Mapping](/categories/data-mapping) [Browse Remote Desktop Themes](/categories/remote-desktop/themes) ![Tian Lin](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Tian Lin") TL Researched and written by [Tian Lin](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/tian-lin) Updated April 9, 2026 Remote desktop software enables users to seamlessly connect to and control a computer in another location via an internal network or the internet, displaying the remote screen in real time and giving the user full keyboard and mouse control, supporting remote work, IT troubleshooting, and product demonstrations. ### Core Capabilities of Remote Desktop Software To qualify for inclusion in the Remote Desktop category, a product must: - Display the remote computer screen on your own screen in real time - Use your own keyboard and mouse to control the remote screen - Allow complete access to and control over the remote desktop - Allow connection either via an internal network or IP address - Support differing operating systems ### Common Use Cases for Remote Desktop Software IT professionals, support technicians, and remote employees use [remote desktop software](https://learn.g2.com/best-remote-desktop-software) to access and manage computers from any location. Common use cases include: - Enabling remote employees to securely access corporate networks and servers from BYOD devices - Allowing IT teams to troubleshoot and configure employee devices without requiring physical presence - Supporting sales teams and user specialists in guiding clients through complex processes or product demonstrations remotely ### How Remote Desktop Software Differs from Other Tools Remote desktop software offers full remote control of another computer, distinguishing it from [screen sharing software](https://www.g2.com/categories/screen-sharing), which allows users to share their screens for presentations or web conferencing without granting control. It also differs from [screen and video capture software](https://www.g2.com/categories/screen-and-video-capture), which records desktop activity for asynchronous sharing rather than providing live remote access. Remote desktop solutions deploy encryption, two-factor authentication, and other security measures to ensure secure data transmission during remote sessions. ### Insights from G2 on Remote Desktop Software Based on category trends on G2, connection reliability and cross-platform OS support as standout features. Reduced need for in-person technical support and faster issue resolution as primary outcomes of adoption. Top Tools at a Glance | | IT support with unattended cross-platform access | User Review "TeamViewer’s Global Culture and Expanding Digital Workplace Vision" | | | Unattended IT support with Zoho ecosystem integration | User Review "Instant, Trust-Building Remote Access with Clear Guidance and Smart Reporting" | | | Patch-driven remote access without VPN dependency | User Review "Action1 Delivers Incredible Value: Free Endpoints, Affordable Scaling, and Phenomenal Reporting" | | | Built-in Windows remote troubleshooting without installs | User Review ""Reliable Remote Help with Microsoft Quick Assist"" | | | Browser-based remote support without software installation | User Review "Effortless Remote Control" | | | Affordable always-on access across multiple PCs | User Review "RemotePC: Fast, Easy Remote Access That Boosts Productivity at an Affordable Price" | | | IT support with unattended multi-platform access | User Review "Splashtop: Simple Setup, Top-Notch Performance, and Strong Security" | | | Lightweight remote support across mixed IT environments | User Review "Fast, Smooth Remote Access with a Simple Interface" | | | MSP remote support with unattended access | User Review "Secure, Seamless Unattended Access with ScreenConnect and NinjaOne Integration" | * * * Show More * * * ## How Do You Choose the Right Remote Desktop Software? ### What You Should Know About Remote Desktop Software ### What is remote desktop software? Remote desktop software, also known as remote access software, allows users to access another computer or system remotely in real time and work on it like their local device. It ensures easy, efficient, and secure access to one or many remote desktops.  While the software can also be used for remote support, a remote desktop tool is typically used by employees to access a machine remotely rather than to resolve a technical problem. Though the maintenance functions may not be as extensive as those of remote support solutions, remote desktop tools aid support teams in performing basic maintenance tasks on numerous devices from a single station. Typical use cases of a remote desktop tool include granting employees access to and managing distant computers anytime, from any device, which gives them the privilege to work from anywhere. Sometimes IT support professionals use remote desktop software to troubleshoot and perform maintenance tasks remotely. ### What are the common features of remote desktop software? The following are some core features of a remote desktop tool that can help users achieve greater flexibility and cost savings through remote work: - Remote access and control: Remote desktop software provides end users access to and control over other devices not in their physical vicinity. The software facilitates the visibility of a specific window or the entire desktop. - Multi-monitor support: Many workplaces now opt for multiple monitors at their workstations to help improve productivity. As a result, the remote desktop tool supports the capability to view multiple monitors at a time. - Multiple operating system (OS) support: Businesses today use Windows, macOS, Linux, or other OS, and sometimes multiple OS within the same company. Remote desktop software has features to handle viewing and functioning on any OS, independent of the OS the end user is connecting from. - Mobile device access: Remote desktop tools allow administrators to access connected mobile devices and support mobile OS like Android, iOS, and more. - Data encryption: When a user’s device is being used and managed remotely, it may leave the user feeling vulnerable. The remote desktop tool offers a data encryption feature to secure the connection and protect data. - File management: Remote desktop software facilitates file sharing and transfers to enable quick and effortless work discussion, collaboration among colleagues, and viewing of relevant documents when working remotely. The shared or transferred files are highly secure as permission to access them is granted only to authenticated user accounts. - Remote configuration: The software helps configure a remote PC for access so that the end user can take complete control of the device over the internet anytime. - Chat: The chat functionality of the remote desktop software allows users to send and receive messages between computers. - Application management: Remote desktop tool centrally manages, configures, and monitors applications on employee devices.  - Session transfer: Access to remote sessions for IT support can be transferred between users using a remote desktop application. - Session recording: A remote desktop tool provides the ability to record remote sessions at a desired location on the local computer.  - Security: All the data shared across a remote connection is encrypted. It also uses multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure only authorized users can log in and notify suspicious activities. - Deployment flexibility: Remote desktop tools can be deployed on the cloud and on-premises, depending on the organization’s requirements. - Remote printing: Some remote desktop solutions provide remote printing capabilities to help users print documents using a locally plugged or network printer. - Session usage reporting: Activity log tracking and session analytics is essential for IT managers and chief information officers (CIOs) looking to track, manage, and optimize helpdesk activities. - Branding: Remote desktop systems may let businesses customize client applications to match their websites. ### What are the benefits of remote desktop software? There are several benefits that a business can reap from a remote desktop tool. Below is a list of advantages that the tool offers: - Efficiency: Remote desktop tools offer the potential to maintain numerous devices from a single workstation. Users can access the systems they need from wherever they are located. - Cost savings: Remote desktop tools may require the installation of remote client software on user devices. However, some web-based remote desktop software provides remote access with zero endpoint installation or configuration. Clientless, centrally-managed solutions do not require installation, management, and software maintenance on individual devices, thereby cutting down IT support costs. Additionally, these solutions enable users to work from home with the most reliable and secure connection resulting in reduced overhead expenditure for office space, computing equipment, software, utilities, etc. - Flexibility: Employers are increasingly promoting flexible and remote work. The ability to work from anywhere, at any time, and on multiple devices increases employee productivity and turnover. These tools enable employees to work remotely with a seamless remote desktop connection to one or many desktops at the workplace. - Business continuity: Remote desktop platform ensures business continuity in times of crisis, such as pandemic outbreaks, harsh weather, and transportation strikes. It provides access to business applications and data from home, enabling organizations to meet their business objectives. ### Who uses remote desktop software? - Customer support teams: Employees on support teams are most likely to use the remote desktop tool. The software greatly improves the efficiency of most support teams’ day-to-day routines and tasks.  - IT departments: Software and licensing administrators in the IT department can use remote desktop tools for scheduling and running maintenance on devices, regardless of the device's physical location or the administrator. - Data archive teams: Teams that do heavy [data archive](https://learn.g2.com/data-archiving) work may also benefit from using a remote desktop tool. Data archives tend to be optimized toward UNIX systems like Linux’s numerous variants, so having a remote Linux build that can be tapped into from a Windows desktop can be incredibly valuable. - Software engineers: Remote desktop solutions enable developers and engineers to share a single workstation, use [integrated development environments (IDEs)](https://www.g2.com/articles/ide), access remote servers, and investigate bugs remotely. - Educational institutions: Teachers, professors, educators, and administrators use remote access solutions for conducting classes and accessing tools and files from remote locations. - Remote users: Remote employees rely on these solutions to access company files and servers and complete tasks without being in the office. ### What are the Alternatives to Remote Desktop Software? - [Remote support software:](https://www.g2.com/categories/remote-support) Remote support and remote desktop tools are so similar that many use the two names interchangeably. There is a slight but notable difference between the two. Remote desktop software focuses more exclusively on access to and control over a remote device. While remote support software does this as well, these solutions offer more expansive features to assist with maintenance and troubleshooting. - [Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) software](https://www.g2.com/categories/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi): Remote desktop and VDI software have similar characteristics but slightly different target functions. A remote desktop tool tends to focus on creating connections to physical devices. In contrast, a VDI tool hones in on entirely virtual desktops associated with servers or even an OS being run within another OS. VDI software allows for centralized hosting and viewership of numerous desktops, whereas remote desktop focuses on the ability to access numerous physical desktops from a single location. - [Screen sharing software](https://www.g2.com/categories/screen-sharing): These systems partially match the functionality of remote desktop solutions by allowing users to share screens and demonstrate processes to viewers. Sales, marketing, and support teams use screen sharing tools to provide demos, brainstorm, and resolve technical issues. ### Challenges with remote desktop software Remote desktop tools can come with their own set of challenges.  - Connectivity: Remote desktop usage occurs entirely via the internet, so connectivity issues can end up disrupting the experience. When implementing a remote desktop tool, users must ensure high internet connectivity. - Hardware dilemmas: Remote desktop software relies partly on the end device’s hardware functioning optimally. If there is an issue with the end device’s hardware, the software may not be able to access the remote device. - Privacy: The means to take control of other users’ computers remotely does come with a certain degree of privacy risk. In the wrong hands, losing control of one’s computer means compromised data on the computer or an entire network. Companies need to use strong endpoint protection software when implementing remote support software to protect internal devices. - Operating system compatibility: Some remote desktop systems may not efficiently support different operating systems such as Linux, macOS. or their outdated versions. This Os non-compatibility makes it challenging for remote users to receive timely solutions. - High-performance tasks: Network speed and bandwidth variation may impact remote desktop tools' ability to to complete tasks demanding high computational resources, including video rendering, data analysis, and graphic design. - User experience: Complex remote desktop applications make it difficult for users to log in, establish connections with remote devices, and share files. ### How to choose remote desktop software Organizations buying remote desktop software must consider business-specific needs and the following factors to maximize the return on their investment. - Device whitelisting and authentication: Choosing a remote desktop platform with device or endpoint authentication is crucial for preventing unauthorized systems from connecting with remote devices and gaining unattended access. - Two-factor authentication (2FA): Remote desktop solutions with 2FA capabilities verify user identity to protect devices and data from brute-force attacks, social engineering, and phishing.  - Security compliance: Buyers must ensure that the remote access tool of their choice meets different security standards, including [General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)](https://www.g2.com/glossary/gdpr-definition), System and Organization Controls (SOC 2), Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Also, consider choosing solutions that update security protocols regularly.  - Ease of use: Selecting a user-friendly remote desktop tool is essential for ensuring that even non-technical users have a seamless experience while using the system. Moreover, users should be able to install the application without any difficulty.  - File transfer: Remote desktop tools with [file sharing](https://www.g2.com/glossary/file-sharing-definition) features allow users to share presentations, documents, and data, enabling them to send or receive files immediately. Also, consider looking for systems with remote printing, chat, multi-monitor support, and remote wake-on-LAN functionalities. - Available on mobile devices: Choosing a system that users can access from a phone or tablet helps technical support specialists resolve issues on the go.  - Price and customer support: Consider thoroughly evaluating customer support availability and features against price to find the best solution. Depending on their organizations’ sizes, needs, and preferences, buyers must try different tools to find the one that best fits their compatibility, security, usability requirements, and budget. ### Remote desktop software pricing Remote desktop software is available in two deployment models: on-premises and cloud. Based on the models, the software can also be purchased as a perpetual license or as annual or monthly subscriptions. Remote desktop tools are priced as a perpetual license for on-premises software, whereas cloud-based solutions are available on a subscription basis. Some remote desktop tools can be downloaded for free private usage and are available as a three-tier license, often business, premium, or corporate. Remote desktop software pricing varies depending on the number of seats, devices, and features organizations require. Below is a general overview of pricing based on tiers buyers choose. - Entry-level plans range from $10 to $15 monthly and include basic features. These plans suit individual users and small businesses. - Mid-range plans can cost businesses up to $35 per month. They provide more features suitable for larger business teams. - Advanced plans cost around $75 monthly and offer advanced support and user management features. These are ideal for larger enterprises with extensive business requirements. ### Implementation of remote desktop software How is remote desktop software implemented? There are generally two ways in which a remote desktop software is implemented: - OS-based implementation: OS-based remote desktop solutions are built directly into the OS. No extra software is required to use OS-based remote desktop solutions as the tools are already installed. For example, some versions of Windows come with built-in remote desktop software.  - Third-party-based implementation: Third-party-based implementation is needed when remote desktop software has to be licensed by the user. Once the buyer has decided on the software that fits their particular needs and installed it, it should be ready for use. ### Remote desktop software trends - Companies will adopt a hybrid workplace model: Companies are now looking at providing the choice of working from the office only for a few days a week. The remote working element in a hybrid workplace is a trend that is expected to grow. Employees within an organization have increasingly started preferring to work from home or anywhere else with flexible working schedules. Employers are also providing the flexibility to do so. Remote desktop and remote support software will be widely used when working remotely, as they provide seamless IT support without letting external factors hinder business processes from running smoothly. - Organizations will opt for consolidation of remote work tools: Organizations use multiple software solutions such as video conferencing, remote support, and remote desktop to enable effective collaboration across employees, clients, and partners. It is essential to consolidate these tools and provide the organization with better visibility to enhance operational productivity, thereby reducing the need to monitor each device individually. The adoption of centralized solutions is expected to rise, considering it would help companies ensure compliance and tackle software management issues. - BYOD trends continue gaining popularity: Many organizations encourage employees to use BYOD devices to control capital expenditure costs rising from hardware purchase and maintenance. Employees using their devices often rely on remote desktop solutions to connect with peers or access server files. Remote workers using their devices for office work are more likely to experience cybersecurity threats. Businesses must continue investing in cybersecurity, cloud security, and vulnerability management tools to prevent data leaks and unauthorized access and mitigate remote work tech vulnerability. _Researched and Written by_ [_Anindita Sengupta_](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/anindita-sengupta) _Reviewed and Edited by_ [_Sinchana Mistry_](https://in.linkedin.com/in/sinchana-mistry95)