Discover the best remote control tools to take control of another computer, for computer troubleshooting, remote training or simply when you are teleworking.
Do you have a problem with your computer and you have a friend who knows about it? Do you have a file to recover on your professional PC located at your workplace? This is exactly the type of situation requiring the use of remote control software.
How does remote control software work?
Generally, the computer taking control must have the username and password of the remote station to establish the connection. Whether for teleworking or for computer troubleshooting, the user will then find the screen of the remote station in a window and will be able to interact with it.
This procedure is found, more or less, on most remote connection and control services. But how do you choose the software that suits you best? For users to make the right choice, they must first determine their needs: is it for IT assistance (which requires a person in front of the remote PC to validate the connection) or for recurring teleworking, which requires that the connection identifiers are always the same and does not require validation at the time of connection.
Then, it is generally the additional features (chat, file transfer, collaboration tools, etc.), the speed of the connection, the ease of use, the editing options and the budget, which will determine which software is most suitable. .
Our selection of the best remote control software
TeamViewer: the pioneer of remote control software
Launched in 2005, TeamViewer is one of the first remote control software, and therefore a reference 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 who are unfamiliar with the computer tool.
Multiplatform, it supports different PC and mobile operating systems: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android. Additionally, TeamViewer ensures remote connection security through robust security features. It uses advanced encryption protocols to protect data transmitted between devices and offers two-factor authentication and password protection options.
For professionals, TeamViewer also stands out with its comprehensive set of features. It goes beyond basic remote control capabilities, with additional functions such as file transfer, chat functionality, session recording and remote printing. There is a free version of the software, but also subscriptions with options suitable for teleworkers, businesses of different sizes and IT help centers.
AnyDesk: the most popular alternative
If it is possible to have an interface even simpler than that of TeamViewer, it is that of AnyDesk. One click and entering an ID makes connecting to a remote computer smooth and fast. It is also quick and easy to close the session or block control of the remote user. An instant messaging module and file transfer are also offered with a reinforced security system with two-factor authentication, password, encryption keys for data exchange, etc.
Although it was launched 10 years after TeamViewer, AnyDesk has not been left behind and still offers more interesting features for both individuals and businesses. For individuals, it is its connection speed, security and personalization that can make the difference while professionals can count on collaborative tools such as the whiteboard and screen sharing, the multiple connection system and the communication tools.
Another advantage of AnyDesk: it is possible to use it without installing software since an online version is accessible from any web browser. Available free of charge for a limited number of stations and non-commercial use, the software is also available in different paid subscriptions, allowing you to manage several hundred stations and benefit from more features.
RustDesk Remote Desktop: the open Source alternative
RustDesk Remote Desktop takes advantage of the same remote control features as AnyDesk and Teamviewer with chat, file transfer, device management and secure login with unique ID and password. It has five free public servers and subscription offers for users with more needs.
But for businesses, the great strength of RustDesk Remote Desktop is that it can be self-hosted on your own servers. Individuals can also tackle the task, but it remains complex, despite the detailed documentation. Thus, the solution becomes completely free and user data is more secure on private servers. Administrators will also be able to configure permissions and options according to their needs, benefit from a P2P connection with end-to-end encryption and have a simple and practical management console.
Chrome Remote Desktop: remote control by Google Chrome
Chrome Remote Desktop uses the Google Chrome web browser as a connection gateway to your remote PC. You will first need to install and configure software on the remote PC, then connect with the dedicated extension installed on your browser. A Google account is required to activate the connection. Then you can access your files, run programs, and even share your screen with other collaborators.
The service is completely free and may be ideal for teleworkers who want to access their desktop PC, since the connection can be done with only the Google login password. That is, there is no need for someone to enter an ID or validate a connection on the remote PC. On the other hand, it lacks important features for IT assistance such as instant messaging or connection to multiple screens.
Microsoft Remote Desktop: take control of your PC under Windows
The operation of Microsoft Remote Desktop is a little more restrictive since it allows you to connect remotely from any PC or mobile, but only to take control of a Windows device. More oriented towards teleworking and the professional sector, it first requires the installation of a specific module on the remote computer under Windows 10/11 (Professional, Enterprise) or Windows Server (2016, 2019, 2022). You have the ability to redirect devices and access the clipboard and files (local storage) remotely.
The advantage of this tool is that it is completely free and secure and can leave applications open on the remote Windows PC, even if the client software is turned off. For example, you leave your office PC running with Microsoft Remote Desktop when you leave work, then log on to your home computer to complete an important task on your work PC, then turn off your computer when you leave. home and will be able to resume the connection the next day by teleworking with your office applications still active.
