Top Free Remote Desktop Software Picks for 2026

DWService is a free, open-source project that simplifies remote access. The host installs or temporarily runs the program, and the client logs in through any web browser to run commands, control the screen, and manage files and folders.

This tool ranks as my top choice for remote tech support with family members. It’s incredibly easy to use for both parties involved, and it provides the essential tools needed to identify and fix remote problems effectively.

Host Side

The host has two options: download the DWAgent and either run it for one-time, on-demand access (great for tech support) or install it for permanent remote access (ideal if it’s your own computer).

If you choose the run option instead of installing, you’ll get a user code and password that the client needs to access the computer. Otherwise, provide the code given by the client so they will have always-on access to the host computer.

Client Side

The client has it easy if the host uses the on-demand option. Simply log in through the link below and enter the code and password that appears on the host’s DWAgent program window. That’s it!

If the host installs the program, the setup is a bit more involved. Create a user account through the link below (it’s free), and then add a new agent to your account. Provide the code to the host during the installation.

DWService offers a variety of tools. Unlike some remote access programs, you don’t need to open the screen-sharing tool to send or receive files or run commands.

As a client, you have access to tools like Files and Folders, Text editor, Log watch, Resources, Screen, and Shell. These let you create text-based files, browse the file system to make, edit, or remove files, and upload or download them to and from the host. You can run Command Prompt commands, view basic system information, and manage tasks or services.

You can pay to use DWService if you want to increase the bandwidth limit. The free version caps at 6 Mbps, but you can pay for up to 50 Mbps if needed.

The DWAgent tool for the host can be installed on various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. It also works via a mobile web browser. Android users can install the client app.

Chrome Remote Desktop is an extension for the Chrome browser that allows you to set up a computer for remote access. It’s not the best option for assisting someone who isn’t tech-savvy, but it’s great for accessing your own computer.

Host Side

To use this, install the extension to get a random code you can share for spontaneous support (get that code here), or a PIN for accessing the computer anytime from your Google account.

Client Side

To connect to the host browser, sign in to Chrome Remote Desktop from another web browser using your Google credentials or a temporary access code generated by the host computer.

Once logged in, you can easily see the other PC’s name, select it, and start the remote session.

While it lacks a chat function found in similar programs, it’s easy to set up and allows you to connect to your computer—or anyone else’s—using only your web browser from anywhere.

Additionally, you can access the computer remotely even if the user doesn’t have Chrome open or is logged out of their account.

Because it operates entirely within Chrome, it works with any operating system that supports the browser, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebooks.

While it’s useful for remote troubleshooting like DWService, AnyDesk is preferred for accessing your computer remotely, especially for unattended access. Its ability to run without installation is particularly advantageous.

Host Side

Start the software on the target computer and make note of the 9-digit number, or a custom alias if it’s set. When the client connects, the host can choose to allow or deny the connection and manage permissions such as enabling sound, permitting clipboard use, and restricting control of the host’s keyboard or mouse.

Client Side

On a different computer, open AnyDesk and input the host’s Remote Desk ID or alias in the Remote Address section. Then wait for the host to approve the connection. You can also connect using AnyDesk’s web client.

If unattended access is configured, the client can connect without waiting for host approval.

The program auto-updates, can enter full-screen mode, balances quality and speed, transfers files and sound, syncs the clipboard, records remote sessions, runs keyboard shortcuts, takes screenshots, and restarts the host computer.

It runs on macOS, Linux, and Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and XP. It also works with Chrome OS, FreeBSD, Raspberry Pi, and Apple TV. To control your PC from your phone, install the iOS or Android app.

For a straightforward tool with great features, consider the free remote access service Getscreen.me. If you need to quickly access someone’s computer without dealing with logins or installations, this is the solution you’re looking for.

You’ll find file sharing, a built-in chat window, buttons for common keyboard shortcuts (such as switching users, opening the Run box, and opening File Explorer), a system information viewer, full-screen mode, and clipboard sharing.

Host Side

The computer that will be connected to must download and open the software. Installation is optional, but you can fully install it if the computer will require permanent remote access.

There are two ways for the client to connect. One option is to log in to the client’s user account using their email and password, ideal if they’ll frequently access this computer.

Another way to use Getscreen.me is by opening the program and sharing a public link. In this anonymous session, the link recipient can access your computer without a password. This is great for spontaneous tech support, but be aware that the connection time is limited when used anonymously.

The host can set permissions, such as whether the client can control the mouse and keyboard, capture sound, and make audio calls.

Client Side

There are several ways to access the remote computer. If you’ve logged into your account in the host program, you have permanent access. This means you can use the link below to log into the same account via a web browser to access the other computer.

If the host hasn’t logged in to their account, they can provide a URL that you can open on your device to automatically access the remote PC without needing your account information.

Free users encounter several limitations that can be removed only with a paid upgrade. For instance, you can’t record the connection or make voice calls, Wake-on-LAN is disabled, and file transfers are limited to 50 MB per file. See all the differences between the plans with this comparison table.

It works on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. You can control it from any device with a web browser.

The free Quick Assist remote access program is user-friendly and doesn’t require a download because it’s built into Windows 11 and Windows 10. You can find it by searching in the Start menu or browsing the Windows Accessories folder. (Use the link below if you can’t locate it.)

Host Side

Enter the 6-digit code generated by the client’s computer into the text box, and then select Share screen. Once the client has completed their part, you need to confirm that they can access your computer before the connection is established.

Client Side

Choose Assist another person and log in to your Microsoft account. Provide the security code to the host and then select either Take full control or View screen to remotely access their computer.

Once connected to the host, clients can switch monitors, make screen annotations, restart the computer, and quickly open Task Manager.

Windows Remote Desktop

This remote access software is built into the Windows operating system. It’s convenient because no extra download is needed, making it feel like you’re directly in front of the remote PC. However, compared to other tools in this list, it can be challenging to set up for many users.

Host Side

To enable connections to a computer with Windows Remote Desktop, open the System Properties settings found in Settings (Windows 11) or the Control Panel. Then, allow remote connections through a specific Windows user.

To accept incoming access requests, the host user must set up port forwarding on their router. Although straightforward, this process is more involved than what’s needed for the better apps listed above.

Client Side

To connect to the host machine, the other computer needs to open the pre-installed Remote Desktop Connection software and enter the host’s IP address.

While most other software in this list offer features that Windows Remote Desktop lacks, this method provides the most natural and easiest way to control a remote Windows PC’s mouse and keyboard.

Once everything is configured, you can transfer files, print to a local printer, listen to audio from the remote PC, and transfer clipboard content.

Remote Desktop Availability

Windows Remote Desktop works on Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.

While all Windows versions can connect to computers with incoming connections enabled, not all can act as a host, meaning they can’t accept incoming remote access requests.

If you’re using Home Premium or below, your computer can only act as a client, so it can’t be accessed remotely, but it can still access other computers remotely.

Incoming remote access is allowed only on Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate versions of Windows. In these editions, others can remote into the computer as described above.

Remember, Remote Desktop will log a user off if they’re logged in when someone connects to their account remotely. This differs greatly from other programs on this list, which allow remote access while the user is actively using the computer.

RustDesk operates similarly to AnyDesk, mentioned earlier. It allows text-only chat between the host and client, and files can be sent and received. RustDesk offers 32-bit and 64-bit versions, a portable edition that doesn’t need installation, and mobile apps.

Host Side

The host computer (the one being accessed) simply needs to open the program and share the ID and password with the client.

Once the client connects to the host, the host user can disconnect the client at any time and control permissions via one-click toggles: disable keyboard and mouse control, disable clipboard access, mute sound, and disable copy/paste.

Client Side

You’ll enter the host machine’s ID and password—although the password isn’t needed if the host is on your computer and accepts the connection request. Next, choose either the file transfer or regular connect button to start transferring files or connect to the host to view its screen.

Tabs show recent sessions, favorites, and an address book for easily reconnecting with past hosts. You can also create a desktop shortcut that immediately starts a remote session with a specific client.

During a session, you can enter full screen mode, start a chat or file transfer, send Ctrl + Alt + Del, insert Lock, block user input, adjust the window size, optimize for quality or speed, show or hide the remote cursor, mute the session, allow or deny copy and paste, disable the clipboard, and enable automatic user account lock after the session ends.

A web client is available, letting you access the host without downloading the program.

This open-source remote desktop program works on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.

AnyViewer, from the popular software company AOMEI, installs in under five seconds. It features a straightforward user interface that’s easy for anyone to understand immediately.

Host Side

Share the device ID and security code with the client. The software generates a security code that changes whenever it restarts. You can adjust the frequency of these changes in the program’s settings or set a fixed code if you want the client to access the computer in the future using the same code.

Client Side

Enter the host’s device ID into the Start Control box, choose to control the other computer or transfer files, and click Connect. When prompted, either send a control request to the host and wait for their acceptance, or enter the security code.

During a session, you can adjust the resolution to better fit your display and switch between high and low image quality to prioritize either quality or speed.

The Operation tab during a remote session includes shortcuts for common actions like Ctrl+Alt+Del, lock, log out, restart, shut down, This PC, Task Manager, and Command Prompt. You can also auto-lock the device when you end the session. If you opt for the paid version, you gain additional options like disabling the host’s mouse and keyboard and making the recipient’s screen black.

Although the file transfer option is available with a generous size limit of 100 MB, the maximum transfer speed is only 500 KBps. If you need to send files using this program, a service designed to send big files would be more efficient..

Create a user account to manage unattended devices and view connection history. Otherwise, you can connect to the host immediately after installation, making it ideal for both one-off sessions and repeat users.

The software supports Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7, as well as Windows Server 2022 through 2012 R2, Android, iPad, and iPhone.

HelpWire is ideal for spontaneous remote access. Simply send a special link to the other person. After you request access and they approve, you’re connected! The app and setup process are straightforward, but if you need a powerful file transfer tool, consider other options on this list.

Host Side

This is the computer that will be controlled remotely. Open the link the other person sent, and launch the downloaded program. A chat window will appear. Wait for the client to request access, then press Grant access to allow it. To disconnect them at any time, simply close the chat box.

Client Side

To connect to the host computer, use the Add New Client button in your HelpWire account to generate a unique link. Send it to the other person, and once they’ve opened the app, select Request Access. Wait for their approval, then choose Connect to launch HelpWire Operator and view their computer.

There isn’t much to this software, which is great if you don’t want all the extras some apps include. You can send text messages back and forth, and the chat box includes a timeline of connection events. The host can revoke the client’s access, the client can switch monitors, and some connection and quality settings can be adjusted.

There are a few issues with this remote access tool: occasionally, the client is prompted to download and install the app even if it’s already installed, and file transfers sometimes fail despite repeated attempts.

Overall, this is an excellent choice for anyone needing to service a computer quickly. It covers the basics, is remarkably easy to use for both parties in the session, and its performance matches the competition.

HelpWire is compatible with both Windows and macOS.

This remote access program is fully portable and completely free for both personal and commercial use, which is rare.

Host Side

To control a computer, simply share its ID and password with the other user. This straightforward design makes it easy for inexperienced users to request help.

Client Side

For the computer performing the remote access, click Connect and enter the host’s ID and password. The program’s tabs let you open multiple connections at once.

Once connected, you can send and receive files and communicate via text or voice. Passwords are generated automatically, but you can choose your own for easy recall.

The program is compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8, Vista, and 7, along with certain Windows Server operating systems. It also supports macOS 10.15 through 13. Additionally, there’s an Android app that can function as both the host and client.

AeroAdmin is a straightforward tool for free remote access. It has minimal settings, making it quick and efficient, ideal for spontaneous support. Just open the portable program and share your IP address or provided ID with someone so the client can connect to the host machine.

Host Side

Just open the portable program and share your IP address or the given ID with someone else. This is how the client computer will know how to connect to the host.

Client Side

The client PC only needs to run the same program and enter the ID or IP address into it. You can choose View only or Remote Control before connecting, and then select Connect to request remote control.

Once the host computer confirms the connection, you can begin controlling the computer and sharing clipboard text.

It’s great that AeroAdmin is completely free for both personal and commercial use, but it’s unfortunate there’s no chat option or file transfer capability.

Although the program is completely free, it limits how many hours you can use it each month — see AeroAdmin’s Full License Comparison Chart for details.

It can be installed on 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and XP.

Jump Desktop is free for personal use and has no limits or ads. It automatically syncs your clipboard with the remote machine, and connections are encrypted end-to-end.

Host Side

The device to be controlled needs to have Jump Desktop Connect. It works on Windows and macOS. You’re given a special link to share with the client, or you can set up remote access so the client can always connect.

When the client requests a connection, you need to accept it manually unless unattended access has been set up.

Client Side

The client connects to the host using Jump Desktop. To easily establish a connection with the remote computer, open the host’s link, which contains a unique string of numbers associated with that computer.

Keyboard settings allow you to modify shortcut keys. You can create one set of shortcuts for connecting to a Windows PC, and a different set for when you remote into a Mac computer.

During a session, the client can view the remote computer in full screen or a normal window. You can also adjust the frame rate and bandwidth, and there’s a menu to send specific keys.

There’s an app available for Windows, Mac, and iOS.

UltraVNC is similar to Remote Utilities, with a server and viewer installed on two PCs, and the viewer controls the server.

Though its setup is complicated, UltraVNC is very capable, offering features like remote Safe Mode access and a chat window.

Host Side

During installation, you’re prompted to install the Server, Viewer, or both. Install the Server on the PC you want to connect to.

You can install the server as a system service so it’s always running. This is the ideal option to ensure you can always connect to it using the client software.

Client Side

To connect to the server, you need to install the viewer portion during setup.

After configuring port forwarding in your router, you can access the host computer from anywhere with an internet connection. Use a mobile device that supports VNC connections, a PC with the viewer installed, or an internet browser. All you need is the server’s IP address to connect.

UltraVNC supports file transfers, text chat, clipboard sharing, and can even boot and connect to the server in Safe Mode.

The download page can be a bit confusing—first, select the latest version of the software, then choose the 32-bit or 64-bit setup file that matches your edition of Windows.

Users of Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7 can install and use the latest software version. Those with older Windows versions can install an earlier edition of the software.

LiteManager is very similar to Remote Utilities, mentioned below. However, while Remote Utilities can control only 10 PCs, LiteManager supports up to 30 slots for storing and connecting to remote computers and offers many useful features.

Host Side

The computer that needs access should install the free LiteManager Pro–Server.msi program, found in the downloaded ZIP file.

Several ways ensure a connection to the host computer: via IP address, computer name, or ID.

Right-click the server program in the taskbar’s notification area, select Connect by ID, clear the existing contents, and click Connect to generate a new ID.

Client Side

Install the Viewer program on the client computer to connect to the host. After the host computer generates an ID, enter it in the Connect by ID option in the Connection menu to establish a remote connection.

After connecting, the client can access features similar to Remote Utilities. These include working with multiple monitors, transferring files silently, taking full control or read-only access of the other PC, running a remote task manager, launching files and programs remotely, capturing sound, editing the registry, creating a demonstration, locking the other person’s screen and keyboard, and text chatting.

A QuickSupport option offers a portable server and viewer program, enabling faster connections than the previous method.

LiteManager was tested on Windows 10 and is compatible with Windows 11, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. It’s also available for macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Iperius Remote is easy to use and offers great features like a powerful file transfer tool and a chat application. It also lets you connect to a computer remotely through their mobile app.

Host Side

Open the program and select Allow connections to view your password. Share this password and the accompanying ID with the client so they can connect to the computer.

Client Side

Enter the host computer’s ID into the second text box, click Connect, and enter the password when prompted.

This free remote access tool is perfect for on-demand access. You and the other person can download and start using Iperius Remote in just a minute or two.

The program’s interface is straightforward and user-friendly. During a remote connection, you can send the Ctrl+Alt+Del shortcut, select a display, switch to full-screen mode, and access file transfer or chat utilities.

For more control, open the settings to enable continuous access, set a custom password, use a proxy, and more.

Iperius Remote supports 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7, plus Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016, and 2012. There’s also an app for macOS, Android, and iOS.

Remote Utilities is a remote access program that isn’t free forever, but it offers a 30-day, fully-functional free trial of the Viewer component. (The other components are free.) It works by pairing two remote computers together with an Internet ID. Control a total of 10 computers with this program.

Host Side

Install Host on a Windows computer to gain permanent access to it. Or just run Agent, which provides spontaneous support without installing anything—it can even be launched from a flash drive.

The host computer obtains an Internet ID that a client uses to make a connection.

Client Side

The Viewer program connects to the host or agent software.

Download Viewer on its own or in the Viewer + Host combo file. Download a portable version of the Viewer if you’d rather not install anything.

Connecting the Viewer to the Host or Agent doesn’t require any router changes like port forwarding, making setup very easy. The client just needs to enter the Internet ID number and password.

There are client applications that can be downloaded for free for iOS and Android users.

Different modules can be used from the viewer so you can actually access a computer remotely without even viewing the screen, though screen-viewing is definitely Remote Utilities’ main feature.

Here are some of the modules Remote Utilities allows: a task manager, file transfer, power control for remote rebooting or WoL, Command Prompt, file launcher, system information manager, text chat, registry access, and webcam viewing.

In addition to these features, remote printing and viewing multiple monitors is also supported.

Unfortunately, configuring Remote Utilities can be confusing on the host computer since there are lots of different options.

This app can be installed on Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, as well as Windows Server 2019, 2016, 2012, 2008, and 2003. There’s also a version for Linux and macOS, but both are in beta and might not work as well as the Windows edition. The mobile app runs on both Android and iOS.