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The Best Remote PC Access Software of 2022

By
Skye Schooley
,
business.com Staff
| Updated
Jul 26, 2022

Whether you need to telecommute or troubleshoot someone else's computer, remote PC access software lets you work on another computer from across the room or across the globe.
Best for Hybrid Remote Computer Access
Advanced security measures
Session recording
Scalable business plans
Best for All-in-One Remote Support and Access
Multiple pay-as-you-go plans
End-to-end SSL
API for custom integration
Best for VoIP Connectivity
Voice communication during sessions
Access to cameras for support staff
Advanced security settings
Best for Small Teams
Easy-to-use web browser interface
Multiple collaboration options
24/7 live chat support
Best for Multiple Devices
TeamViewer Remote PC Access
Platform-agnostic software
Cross-platform access
Mass deployment available
Whether you need to telecommute or troubleshoot someone else's computer, remote PC access software lets you work on another computer from across the room or across the globe.
 

Best Remote PC Access Software

Remote PC access software can be a valuable business tool to provide your employees with offsite device access, remote technical support, online courses and collaboration. The best solutions are easy to use and can easily scale to match various business needs. To find the best remote PC access software for small businesses, we evaluated systems based on factors like installation, platform compatibility, security, cost, scalability, functionality, customer support and sharing features.

Compare Our Best Picks

Remote PC access software Editor's score Best for Contract length Starting price Free trial Compatible devices Cloud-based or on-premises hosting Instant chat features Session recording Mobile device support
RemotePC by IDrive 9.6 Small teams 1-2 years $39.50 per year 7 days Windows, Mac, Linux, Raspberry Pi, Chrome OS, iOS, Android, Fire OS Cloud-based Text chat, whiteboard Yes iOS, Android
Splashtop 9.6 Hybrid remote computer access Annual $60 per year 7 days Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, iOS, Android Both Text chat, whiteboard Yes iOS, Android
ConnectWise Control 9.5 VoIP connectivity Monthly and annual $24 per month 14 days Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS, iOS, Android Both Text chat, voice, annotation, shared toolbox, camera access extension Yes iOS, Android, Windows
Zoho Assist 9.5 All-in-one remote support and access Monthly and annual $10 per technician per month 15 days Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS, iOS, Android Cloud-based Text chat, voice, video, annotation Yes, on select plans iOS, Android
GoToAssist 9.3 No-download live support Monthly and annual $55 per agent per month 7 days Windows, Mac, iOS, Android Cloud-based Slack integration Yes iOS, Android add-ons
TeamViewer 9.3 Multiple devices Annual $50.90 per month 14 days 127 manufacturers, including Windows, Linux, Mac, Chrome OS, Raspberry Pi, iOS, Android, Windows Mobile and BlackBerry Cloud-based Text chat, voice, video, whiteboard, 3D annotations (with Pilot) Yes iOS, Android (for support)
Freshdesk 8.9 Automated customer support Monthly and annual $15 per agent per month 21 days Windows, iOS, Android Cloud-based Text chat Yes iOS, Android add-ons
ISL Online 8.8 Diverse hosting options Annual or lifetime $469 per license per year 15 days Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android Cloud, on-premises, hybrid Text chat, video, whiteboard, notes Yes iOS, Android, Windows
Netop 8.1 Compliance Annual $33 per device per year Yes Windows, Mac, Linux, Android Both Text chat Yes Android, Windows
Wrike 7.9 Remote collaboration Annual for Business plan and above $9.80 per user per month 14 days Windows, Mac, iOS, Android Cloud-based Live activity stream, notes No iOS, Android
How We Decided
Our team spends weeks evaluating dozens of business solutions to identify the best options. To stay current, our research is regularly updated.
22
Considered
15
Researched
10
Selected

Our Reviews

Splashtop Remote PC Access: Best Remote PC Access Software for Hybrid Remote Computer Access

Two users can remotely access a computer at the same time.
Team members can chat in and outside of remote sessions.
Splashtop only offers annual billing.

Splashtop Business Access is our choice as the best remote PC access solution for businesses with hybrid workforces (i.e., employees who work both in and out of the office). The software is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Mac, Windows, Chromebook, iOS and Android devices. This gives your employees the flexibility to remotely access any of their devices, regardless of location.

Splashtop's collaboration features are very useful for connecting remote employees with in-office staff. For example, Splashtop users can share their desktops via web browsers, transfer files with drag-and-drop functionality, and chat in and outside remote sessions. One standout feature that we found especially valuable is that multiple team members can remotely access a computer simultaneously. This can be useful for hybrid teams that need to access a project or presentation from multiple locations simultaneously. If your team can't collaborate in real time because of their locations, you have the option to record sessions and save them to your local computer for future use.

Splashtop Enterprise has some added functionality that allows users to access help directly from the desktop icon and talk in real-time with technicians. End users can connect directly with a technician simply by clicking on the “SOS Call” button to get quick support.

Having a hybrid workforce can leave you susceptible to security risks. Splashtop mitigates those risks through a series of security measures. It offers 24/7 intrusion detection and defense mechanisms, two-factor authentication, screen blanking, automatic screen locking, idle-session timeout, and remote connection notifications. We also appreciate that you can set up user roles and permissions to limit user access to specific computers and devices.

Read Splashtop Remote PC Access Review

Zoho Assist Remote PC Access: Best Remote PC Access Software for All-in-One Remote Support and Access

Designed specifically for small and midsize businesses, Zoho's plans are all affordable and comprehensive.
Zoho Assist offers advanced reports that you can customize.
File transfers exceeding 2GB may experience a lag, or the data may need to be broken up.

Zoho Assist is our choice as the best all-in-one remote PC support and access solution. It's a cloud-based remote access and control solution that has something for everyone: a free plan, three remote support plans, two unattended access plans, and add-ons for storage and VoIP call credits. Affordable pricing is available on a monthly or annual billing cycle, giving you even more flexibility to find a solution that fits your needs. We like that Zoho Assist is a pay-as-you-go service, meaning you can cancel, upgrade, or downgrade your service to meet your current business needs.

Zoho Assist is compatible with various devices (Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS, Android and iOS) and doesn't require installation, so you can quickly connect to a remote device through a web browser. Every plan includes essential features like multi-monitor navigation, clipboard sharing, instant chat, two-factor authentication, idle-session timeout, organization roles and user management.

Zoho works securely through firewalls and proxies, has end-to-end SSL and AES 256-bit encryption, and is compatible with antivirus software. On advanced plans, you can even access session recording and auditing, session notes, and voice and video chat. Other essential things to look for in an all-in-one remote support and access plan are scalability, training opportunities, and compliance – all of which Zoho offers.

Zoho also offers an AR feature designed to solve many technicians' issues of remotely troubleshooting complex problems — like heavy machinery at a mining site and customer service situations. Zoho Assist’s AR solution uses a live video stream from a person’s smartphone or smart glass to render AR remote assistance sessions. This is available to all customers. Its licensing remains technician-based and follows a pricing model similar to remote support.

Read Zoho Assist Remote PC Access Review

ConnectWise Control Remote PC Access: Best Remote PC Access Software for VoIP Connectivity

You can capture sounds from remote devices and communicate by voice during sessions.
Plans feature a range of high-end security settings.
Connecting devices initially can be more challenging than it is with other remote access options.

ConnectWise Control is our choice as the best remote PC access solution for VoIP connectivity. The software lets you capture sounds coming from guest devices, which is not something many competitors offer. Additionally, users can communicate by voice between devices. We found this improves and simplifies communication between parties during technical support, team meetings and access sessions. If necessary, you can view one or more monitors during a session. ConnectWise also lets you record video of any remote session.

The ConnectWise View extension is a unique feature that can make a remote session more advanced with audio as well as visuals. For example, technicians with this extension can have the other user livestream what is in front of them. This gives support techs a firsthand account of an error in real time. This View feature can also be helpful for hybrid teams to collaborate from various locations remotely.

ConnectWise Control not only grants advanced access to remote devices – it does so securely. We were impressed with the numerous security measures, such as two-factor authentication, role-based security settings, audit reports, secure session codes, SSL certificates, device locking on disconnect, brute-force prevention, access revoking, guest input suspension and guest monitor blanking.

Read ConnectWise Control Remote PC Access Review

RemotePC: Best Remote PC Access Software for Small Teams

Plans are easy to implement, use and scale.
RemotePC's pricing model makes it cost-effective for small teams that need unlimited user licenses and concurrent sessions.
RemotePC has limited third-party integrations compared to its competitors.

RemotePC by IDrive is the best remote PC access solution for small teams that want to connect to various work devices, whether at home or in the office. We found the software incredibly easy to implement, as it doesn't require installation before use like some competitors we examined do. Team members can access the software with a web browser, and then use an access ID and personal key (unique password) to make a secure connection with a remote device. The simplicity of this platform is ideal for small teams that don't have access to a dedicated IT staff.

RemotePC offers a suite of essential remote access features like file transferring, remote printing and session recording. We were also impressed with the more advanced functions it offers, like waking up remote devices using Wake-on-LAN, navigating between multiple monitors and playing sounds from remote devices. Additionally, we believe small teams benefit from RemotePC's many collaboration tools like chatting between computers, drawing on remote devices with a whiteboard, and sending invitations to connect with others.

If your business uses Linux machines and wants to ensure a seamless cloud data backup and management experience, RemotePC has a solution for you. Users can utilize IDrive 360, an endpoint cloud backup solution for Linux machines. This web-based Graphical User Interface (GUI) lets you remotely view and manage any number of computers and perform backups for multiple Linux machines at once.

Another thing we like about RemotePC by IDrive is its variety of affordable software plans. While small teams will likely benefit from one of RemotePC's SOHO plans (unlimited user licenses, unlimited concurrent sessions, and five or 10 computers), the company also offers larger Team and Enterprise plans to meet your business's needs as you grow.

Read RemotePC Review

TeamViewer Remote PC Access: Best Remote PC Access Software for Multiple Devices

TeamViewer is compatible with 127 manufacturers for operating systems, mobile devices and IoT devices.
Users can communicate between devices using text chat, HD VoIP audio conferencing and HD video conferencing.
Mobile support costs extra.

TeamViewer is our choice as the best remote PC access solution for businesses that want to remotely access and control multiple types of devices. Instead of limiting the type of devices you can connect to, TeamViewer is platform-agnostic, which we find value in. It can support 127 different mobile devices, IoT devices, and operating systems, including popular platforms like Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. TeamViewer takes multi-device support even further, with advanced connection capabilities that not many competitors offer. For example, you can connect to augmented reality devices, servers, and commercial-grade machines with an internet connection. This level of compatibility enables you to provide support to virtually any customer.

TeamViewer's features are competitive with other market offerings. You can securely transfer files of any size between devices, manage remote devices, and remotely print for Mac and Windows devices. You can also wake up, restart and install applications on sleeping remote computers. Some TeamViewer plans provide advanced capabilities like custom branding, multiuser support sessions, service queues, automated mass deployment and comprehensive reporting.

Users of TeamViewer’s connectivity solution now have the ability to share aerial drone video and audio streams in real-time, thanks to an integration with SoftBank Commerce & Service (SB C&S) aerial drones. TeamViewer allows access to multiple remotely connected devices through a 4G or LTE mobile network. The software program can transmit images from devices such as infrared cameras or LiDARs, as well as basic images and videos.

Read TeamViewer Remote PC Access Review

GoToAssist Remote PC Access: Best Remote PC Access Software for No-Download Live Support

You can establish a remote support connection with an online support key or link.
There are no restrictions on the type or size of files you can transfer in live sessions.
Some features are limited on Mac, like reverse screen share, annotation tools, and device reboot and reconnect.

GoToAssist is our choice as the best remote PC access solution for businesses that want to offer unlimited live support without requiring end users to download software. While some competitors require you to install its software on the devices you are connecting to, GoToAssist lets you make a secure connection through a standard web browser. You still have the option to download the unattended installer onto the end user's device if you prefer, but you can also install it by simply adding their computer from the GoToAssist toolbar. You can then quickly start a support connection by having the end user enter a support key online or click a link you provide.

Since GoToAssist is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices, it doesn't matter what type of device your customer is operating on. Because many businesses don't stick to just one type of device, we found this very appealing. However, mobile device access is only available as an add-on, and some iOS features may be limited.

You can connect devices via web browsers like Chrome, Firefox and Safari. To speed up the support process, GoToAssist often works without requiring you to change firewall settings on remote devices. The software can also integrate with Slack, so you can easily communicate during remote access sessions.

When working with an end user, you can drag and drop files between devices or ask the customer for permission to share their files with you. Unlike competitors, GoToAssist does not limit the type or size of files you can transfer during a live session. If necessary, you can set up GoToAssist to record automatically when a session starts. These recordings can then be shared with customers for future reference or used for support training.

Read GoToAssist Remote PC Access Review

Freshdesk: Best Remote PC Access Software for Automated Customer Support

Freshdesk offers unparalleled automated customer support features.
It has several collaboration and organization features for customer support teams.
You are required to have at least one help desk agent on a paid plan before you can purchase Field employee licenses.

Freshdesk is our choice as the best remote PC access solution for automated customer support. It's comprehensive software that enables businesses to exceed customer expectations in terms of support. The AI-powered omnichannel platform offers support functions like assigning and linking support tickets and creating custom ticket statuses. We like that you can also provide support in various ways, such as email, phone, live chat, social media, websites and WhatsApp. You can manage your support staff through features like service tasks and groups, scheduling dashboards, and time tracking. 

If you want to increase your team's productivity, you can take advantage of Freshdesk's many automated functions, such as dispatching and assigning tickets, sending out email notifications, and assigning (omni-routing) emails, chats and calls to specific agents. These features are all unique to Freshdesk; we didn't see them in its competitors that we reviewed. 

To enhance your customer support with even more automation, you can access the chatbots powered by Freddy AI. This lets your customers interact with a chatbot for generic questions instead of taking up your support agents' time. Similarly, you can offer a help widget on your website to show your customers solutions as they navigate your website or mobile app.

More

ISL Online: Best Remote PC Access Software for Diverse Hosting Options

You can choose from cloud, on-premises and hybrid hosting.
ISL is one of the only companies we reviewed that offers a managed private cloud hosting option for large enterprises.
24/7 premium support costs extra.

ISL Online is our choice as the best remote PC access solution for diverse hosting options. While most competitors offer some combination of cloud-hosted and on-premises software, ISL Online offers those options plus a managed private cloud (MPC) hosting option, a hybrid cloud remote desktop solution. The MPC is for large businesses that want the security of an on-premises solution and the convenience of a cloud-hosted solution. 

We like that each ISL plan has some degree of customization. For example, you may be able to add on multi-session licenses, 24/7 premium support, or updates and upgrades. Regardless of which hosting method or plan you choose, you can rest assured that your remote connections are secured with ISL's premium security measures. These include two-factor authentication, code signing, port filtering, user access management, blacklisting, whitelisting, external security audits and penetration testing. 

ISL offers various ways to make a secure connection. You can connect via desktop app, the web, email invitation, live chat, mobile apps, Microsoft Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) or Secure Shell (SSH), connect boxes, "Download ISL Light" buttons, and branded access points.

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Netop: Best Remote PC Access Software for Compliance

You can automate remote access routines and test them for security weaknesses before implementing them.
Netop offers multifactor authentication through Microsoft Azure, RADIUS, RSA SecurID and smartcards.
The remote control add-on for mobile devices only supports Android and Windows.

Netop is our choice for the best remote PC access solution to help businesses maintain legal compliance. Secure remote connection is essential, especially for businesses that transmit highly sensitive information. We were impressed with the various security options Netop offers to help you comply with privacy regulations. These include end-to-end 256-bit AES encryption, multifactor authentication, user-based permissions, and customizable security roles. You can keep extensive and accurate logs with session recordings and audit trails.

Netop knows compliance. Whether it is the GDPR, PCI DSS, ISO, or HIPAA that you must comply with, Netop can ensure your information remains safe and secure within its platform. If you have any compliance concerns, you can easily contact a representative by phone or online. 

One compliance feature we find quite useful is the ability to automate remote access routines. Once you configure a script, Netop can test it for security weaknesses and efficiencies before you implement it. This not only streamlines remote access processes, but also ensures that they are safe and secure every time. 

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Wrike: Best Remote PC Access Software for Remote Collaboration

You can view and discuss a live activity stream on projects and tasks.
Business and Enterprise plans include real-time reports and report templates.
Wrike is more of a project management solution than traditional remote PC access software.

Wrike, now part of Citrix, is our choice as the best solution for remote collaboration. Although Wrike is not a traditional remote access and control solution like its competitors that we analyzed, the cloud-based platform offers many collaboration tools that enable remote employees to connect with one another. You and your team can access the software on your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices to collaborate externally and internally, copy files, and view interactive boards and spreadsheets. We found that you can control your staff by breaking up large tasks into subtasks and assigning them to team members, and you can view a live activity stream of projects and tasks. 

We like how Wrike facilitates remote collaboration through features like personal and companywide work schedules, file and video proofing (with visual markup tools), and multistage approvals. One of our favorite Wrike features is the interactive Gantt charts. These allow you to easily schedule and visualize projects and deadlines with a drag-and-drop tool.

Wrike ensures your collaboration is secure with two-factor authentication, single sign-on, password policies, user groups and permissions, custom access roles, and user audit reports. 

Wrike recently launched Cloud Content Connector, an application programming interface (API) that integrates Wrike with any digital asset management (DAM) system. This enables teams to manage their work in both systems simultaneously. Cloud Content Connector, which also pairs with Wrike’s proofing feature, allows for customers to power end-to-end creative processes in one place and eliminates app toggling and version control issues. 

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Remote PC Access Software Pricing and Negotiation

Remote access software typically starts around $5 or $10 per user per month, although you may pay more for a comprehensive tiered plan that supports your whole business. When looking at the cost of remote PC access software, pay attention to how it is priced; remote access companies vary in how they charge for their software. For example, you might see one company offer tiered plans with monthly rates based on the number of users or licenses you need, while another company charges based on the number of concurrent sessions you want to allow.

Also remember that some companies charge separately for features like unattended and mobile device access, so factor additional fees like these into your budget. Software pricing is usually available at monthly or annual rates.

TipTip: Knowing how many computers, users, and concurrent sessions you need access for, as well as your budget, will help you quickly zero in on the best company and plan for your business.

As you evaluate remote PC access software solutions, ask the company questions related to the topics below to get a good deal.

  • Free trials or special discounts: Many providers offer seven- to 21-day free trials, as well as other promotions and discounts. They are often flexible with their pricing too. Don't hesitate to ask what discounts your business may qualify for.
  • Fees: Some providers charge extra for additional users or mobile device access. Ask the companies you're strongly considering for a breakdown of all their additional costs.
  • Single-license limitations: If you want to purchase a single license, carefully compare the specific features in that plan with those in other remote PC access providers' single-license plans. Single-user plans often have limited features compared to multiuser business plans.
  • Software upgrades or downgrades: Some companies offer prorated prices if you need to upgrade your plan, while others do not. Some plans make downgrading a simple online process, whereas others have specific requirements for it, such as mailing or calling the company.
  • Updates: Most software platforms automatically update your plan as new technology rolls out. Some, though, may require you to upgrade your account to be compatible with these updated features. If you buy the software outright (i.e., on-premises software) instead of signing up for a subscription, you may have to pay for updates. 

Most companies are transparent about their cost structures and plan details. Carefully review the agreement. Finally, make sure the contract has a clear cancellation policy and there are no built-in price increases.

Buying Guide

What Is Remote PC Access Software, and How Does It Work?

Remote PC access software allows one computer to remotely connect and access another device, regardless of where both devices are physically located. Remote PC access software is commonly used by IT departments that need to access company devices and deploy installations and configurations remotely. It is also used by businesses that want to provide their team or customers with remote support and virtual help desk capabilities, as well as employees who need to access office devices when they are working offsite. 

The ability to connect two devices (e.g., PC, Mac, iOS or Android) will depend on the software you use. While some applications require you to install the software on one or both devices before you can make a connection, other software is web-based and allows you to connect multiple devices via web browser. Depending on the software and plan you purchase, the remote device may have to be turned on before you can make a connection; however, some software programs can remotely "wake up" devices before accessing them. 

Once you remotely connect to a device and have permission to access and manipulate its contents, most remote PC access software allows you to easily drag and drop or copy and paste files from one device to the other. There are often chat capabilities and remote functions like printing or recording.

Is Remote PC Access Safe and Secure?

If you can access your work computer from home, is someone else able to as well? 

All of the software solutions we evaluated go to great lengths to ensure security. Each software program lets you customize the security settings for your remote session. These functions typically include blanking the screen of the host machine while you access it, locking the keyboard and mouse, and automatically disconnecting if the session is inactive for too long. You can adjust these settings and create or change credentials. 

Secure transmissions are a must when you're remotely accessing another computer, especially when sensitive or proprietary information is involved. The industry standard is 256-bit AES encryption, which offers robust security. Further, many remote PC access solutions explicitly comply with industry and government standards and regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Payment Card Industry (PCI) and Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagement (SSAE). 

Passwords are a given for remote PC access software, and many companies offer a second layer of security, such as IP filtering. IP filtering blocks access from specific computers, even if a valid password is used. This feature is particularly helpful in blocking access to unauthorized information.

FYIFYI: While cloud-based platforms (the most common type of remote access software) are secure, those who want more control over their data security may want to consider an on-premises solution.

What Can Remote PC Access Software Do for Me?

Whether your business has ordered its employees to work from home during the COVID-19 pandemic or your IT department needs a software solution to remotely control and troubleshoot devices, remote access is a key component of many businesses. 

Offsite Device Access

Many platforms offer a host of convenient features, such as desktop shortcuts and drag-and-drop file transfers, to access and transfer information. This makes it easier than ever to quickly reach an office computer from a mobile device or desktop – you can access your work computer from anywhere on your personal devices.

Remote Technical Support

This software is ideal for IT work. With it, your IT staff can remotely connect to verified computers to update programs or troubleshoot connection problems. Many of the programs we evaluated are multifunctional enough to suit a business's IT department while remaining simple enough for general employee use. 

FYIFYI: According to Statista, the percentage of U.S. employees who work from home five days or more per week jumped from 17% to 44% during the pandemic. With more remote workers than ever before, businesses have a serious need to offer remote technical support.

Virtual Courses and Collaboration

Some of the programs even allow for web conferencing and whiteboard chatting, which you can use for demos, classes or group projects. The video recording feature on most remote software enables you to record these sessions for future viewing.

Remote PC Access Features

Below is a roundup of some of the most common features that remote access solutions offer. Many companies tier the features, only offering comprehensive functionality on the most expensive plans. Carefully review plan options and, when you pick one, take advantage of the free trial to make sure the plan includes the features you need.   

  • Always-on remote access: Configure devices for remote access at any time. You can see a list of configured devices for remote access and their current statuses (e.g., all computers, in session, online or offline).

  • Browser-based vs. installation: Access devices remotely via web browser-based link, software installation or both.

  • Communication: Communicate between devices using collaboration features such as text chat, VoIP, video, annotation, whiteboards and screenshots.

  • Cross-platform access: Access desktop platforms (e.g., Windows, Linux, Mac, Chrome OS, Raspberry Pi) and mobile devices (e.g., iOS, Android, Windows Mobile, BlackBerry). Some software limits the type of platforms it can connect to.

  • File transfer: Transfer files between devices. This often uses methods such as copy and paste or drag and drop. 

  • Integration: Integrate the software with other business applications you use, such as Google Workspace, Zendesk, and Jira. This is great for simplifying business processes.

  • Logs and reports: Track your remote access and web activity in easy-to-read logs and reports.

  • Multi-monitor support: View multiple monitors on a remote computer.

  • One-time instant access: Permit one-time access to a device using a unique access ID and key.

  • Reboot and reconnect: Reboot a remote device and have your remote access session automatically reconnect.

  • Remote printing: Print from a device that you are accessing remotely.

  • Security: The best remote PC access software has essential security settings that allow you to restrict user access. These security features include two-factor authentication, secure session codes, role-based security, brute-force protection, and single sign-on (SSO) access.

  • Session scheduling and recording: Schedule remote access sessions and record the activity.

  • Wake-on-LAN: Use the remote access software to turn on a remote device that is sleeping or completely turned off.

Did you know?Did you know? With so many employees working from home now, remote PC access software is a great tool for patch management, as it can help ensure each team member's computer is up to date with current security settings.

Remote Desktop Software FAQs

Who needs remote PC access software?

Remote PC access software is a good fit for various business users. Employees who are working from home and want to access their office computers can use it, as can companies or educators who need to remotely teach multiple students simultaneously. It is also ideal for IT departments that need to access office devices, troubleshoot tech issues and deploy various protocols. Support agents and help desks use remote PC access software to aid people experiencing technical problems or glitches. 

What should you look for in a remote access solution?

The best solution for your business depends on what you need from the software. For example, one business might prioritize collaboration tools, while another focuses on user management. In addition to your must-have features, consider usability, compatibility, security and customer support.

Make sure the software is compatible with all of your devices and secure enough to transmit information safely. The level of usability you need depends on how tech savvy your team is: Will only your IT team be using it, or do you need a simple user interface to suit more team members? Also make sure the software you choose is backed by solid customer support so your questions and concerns can be quickly and efficiently addressed. 

How does remote access software increase productivity?

Remote access and support software can increase productivity in more ways than one. For example, accessing an office desktop via various devices allows you or your workers to edit, manage, and submit essential documents outside of the office. This is especially helpful for companies that have employees working at home. 

Another advantage is technical support. If someone on your team runs into a technical problem, they might lose several hours of productivity attempting to fix it themselves. Using a remote access software solution, an IT support technician can quickly access and troubleshoot their device. 

What are the advantages of customizable security settings?

Security is one of the most critical features of remote PC access software, especially for businesses in highly regulated industries. Although most software solutions offer encryption and other security measures to transmit data safely, some have customizable security settings. This is advantageous for companies whose employees work with several individuals on one platform. By creating role-based security measures and managing and restricting specific user access, you can safely manage your team and/or customers. Customizable security settings are also helpful when you work with varying levels of sensitive information. 

Is it safe to use remote desktop software on public Wi-Fi?

Not really. It's always a security risk to access shared public Wi-Fi, especially if no other security measures are in place. For example, if you are connecting to public Wi-Fi, you are most likely connecting to an open port on a firewall – which is not safe. Open ports leave you vulnerable to attackers who can see where your RDP connection is hosted. Even if you're fairly safe from trivial attacks, always implement additional security measures, such as a virtual private network (VPN), when you use remote access software on public Wi-Fi.

What are some risks with using remote PC access software?

Remote PC access software often has various security features to keep your network and devices safe, but that's not to say that using the software has no risks. Remote access software can be accessed or installed on virtually any device, which means your business isn't only on the hook for monitoring in-office devices for security threats – you will need to ensure that every employee device that uses the remote software has sufficient security software.

If your employees use remote access software to connect their business and personal devices, you also run the risk of them mixing their business and personal passwords. If your team doesn't follow a strong password protocol and uses multifactor authentication, this may leave your system vulnerable to cyberthreats. Additionally, since remote access software connects a variety of devices, one hacked device can leave your company at risk of a security breach. Maintain strict security protocols to avoid these dangers; for instance, allow users to access only the necessary devices, and enforce identity verification.

How can you protect your computer when using remote access?

You can employ several business security best practices to protect your devices while using remote access software. Some of the most basic yet effective actions are using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, implementing firewalls to restrict access, setting an account lockout policy, limiting which users can log on to the remote desktop software, and updating software frequently. Make sure that anyone connected to your business's remote access software takes these security measures.

What to expect in 2022

Though remote PC software has been around for years, its use became increasingly vital amid the COVID-19 pandemic, when many businesses were forced to quickly adapt to a virtual work environment. Many companies are opting for a flexible or hybrid work model in 2022, and we anticipate telecommuting — and the software that makes it possible — will only continue to grow.

With this in mind, it makes sense the global remote desktop market size is projected to increase from 2021’s $2,022.9 million to $5,994.8 million by 2028. For comparison, the market size stood at just $1,753.2 million in 2020.

North America is expected to emerge dominant in the remote desktop market share, due to its adoption of work-from-home technologies and big-name software providers in the United States and Canada. Europe and the Asia Pacific region are also slated to see growth in this sector.

Skye Schooley
business.com Staff
Skye Schooley is a staff writer at business.com and Business News Daily, where she has written more than 200 articles on B2B-focused topics including human resources operations, management leadership, and business technology. In addition to researching and analyzing products that help business owners launch and grow their business, Skye writes on topics aimed at building better professional culture, like protecting employee privacy, managing human capital, improving communication, and fostering workplace diversity and culture.
Image Credit: Suwat Rujimethakul / Getty Images
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