Lockdown may be over, but its impact is still being felt by businesses who were forced to undergo rapid shifts in their methods of operating to maintain business as usual. Above all, the disruption highlighted the need for companies to choose and invest wisely in their contingency software, such as remote-access software to provide employees working from home with sufficient IT support. The vast choice of remote-access software on the market can be overwhelming especially due to the common addition of extra features such as remote printing and customized access, however, it is important to thoroughly consider whether these extra aspects will be relevant for your intended use, as these could end up adding to your software costs for little benefit.
With so many options on the market, it can be daunting to choose, however, we’ve done the hard work for you by rounding up our picks below.
Top 9 Windows Remote Access Software
- RemotePC – best software for simplicity
- TeamViewer – best software for large corporate teams
- Zoho Assist – best value software
- LogMeIn Pro – best software for established businesses
- Splashtop Business Pro – best software for businesses on a budget
- Chrome Remote Desktop – best software for individual use
- AnyDesk – best software for transferring files
1. RemotePC – best software for simplicity
PRICING: A free single-user plan is available for access to one remote device.The Basic plan for Consumer/Small Office users offers an introductory price of $7/year (for accessing up to 10 machines) – this price increases after a year to $70. The Enterprise plan for larger teams allows unlimited users and access to up to 100 devices – the initial cost is $50/year, increasing to $500/year in the second year. A free trial is available.
KEY FEATURES:
- Offers support for Mac and Windows from both desktop and iOS and Android apps
- Drag-and-drop file functionality across Mac and Windows devices
- An introductory pricing structure allows for full feature testing before committing
REASONS TO USE:
- Easy to use, intuitive to demonstrate
- Affordable pricing
- Quick and efficient
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Users can only view one screen at a time – which can limit employee support
- No whiteboard or note-adding features
- A lack of advanced security measures – may not be suitable for corporate use, especially when working with sensitive data
2. TeamViewer – best software for large corporate teams
PRICING: A free version is available for non-commercial use – no limit on time or number of users or devices. The Business plan costs $50/month for one user and allows connection to an unlimited number of devices. The Premium plan allows up to 50 users for $105/month. The Corporate plan allows up to 200 users for $165/month.
KEY FEATURES:
- Automated mass deployment
- Sophisticated customer support
- HIPAA-complaint security and malware protection
REASONS TO USE:
- Simple user interface
- Additional features such as VPN service
- Able to conference call and chat across multiple devices
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Expensive pricing tiers
- Can be slow and glitchy
- Restriction on the number of files that can be sent at once
3. Zoho Assist – best value software
PRICING: Both Remote Support and Unattended Access options available, all billed annually. The Remote Support plans comprise Standard, Professional, and Enterprise tiers, priced at $8/month, $13/month, and $21/month respectively, which allow 1 user to access up to 6 simultaneous sessions (2 for Standard, 4 for Professional and 6 for Enterprise) as well as have access to all remote features. The Unattended Access plans comprise Standard and Professional tiers, priced at $8/month and $13/month respectively and both provide support for up to 25 devices with similar useful features such as diagnostic tools. these plans are better for larger companies needing software to support their dedicated technicians.
KEY FEATURES:
- Remote printing
- 2FA security solutions and identify verifications
- Ability to access any device across Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows
REASONS TO USE:
- Fast application speed with minimal lag
- Comprehensive and impressive security features
- Competitive pricing
REASONS TO AVOID:
- No integration with social media
- Communication with the support team can be unreliable
- Can be difficult to set up
4. LogMeIn Pro – best software for established businesses
PRICING: A 14-day free trial is available. The price depends on the number of connections required (all include an unlimited number of users) and pricing is per month, billed annually. There are 5 pricing tiers ranging from $30/month for 2 connections to $541/month for 50 connections. The tiers also include LastPass Premium password manager licenses.
KEY FEATURES:
- 24/7 live customer and client support
- Support for multiple monitors and workspace reproduction
- Ability to customize access to individual user role
REASONS TO USE:
- Price inclusive of cloud storage
- Industry-standard security
- Comprehensive package of features included – may save money elsewhere
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Some features may be unnecessary for smaller businesses or casual users
- May be more expensive than competitors depending on business size
- Some users have reported difficulty with price increases later on in the contract
5. Splashtop Business Pro – best for businesses on a budget
PRICING: The Access Solo plan provides support for one user and access for two devices and it costs $5/month, billed annually. The Access Pro plan provides support for 1-3 users and remote access for up to 10 devices. This plan costs $8.25/month, billed annually. There are also bulk discounts available for businesses needing to add more users to a plan, usually $10 more per user although individual quotes can be provided on request.
KEY FEATURES:
- Ability to access devices from any platform using Chrome browser
- File drag and drop functionality
- Different versions available for different sectors, eg Splashtop Classroom for education environments
REASONS TO USE:
- Economical pricing options
- Useful additions such as a chat function
- Neat package of useful features
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Confusing selection of features – not much guidance
- Limited to only accessing Windows and iOS systems
- Reports of connection issues and glitches
6. Chrome Remote Desktop – best for individual use or start-ups
PRICING: Entirely free
KEY FEATURES:
- Can be accessed using usual Google account – fast onboarding
- PIN code security system
- Dedicated support center
REASONS TO USE:
- Low cost with no subscription needed
- High-quality performance with minimal lag
- High level of accessibility
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Limited functionality when accessing from mobile devices
- Minimal, simplistic feel with minimal menu of features which may not be sufficient for enterprise users – for example, a lack of remote printing and file transfer capabilities
- The security features could be improved
7. AnyDesk – best software for transferring files
PRICING: $10/month for the Essentials package, which provides the most basic features. $20/month for the Performance package, offering business features with support for multiple users connecting to up to 3 devices. For full integration and customized offerings as part of the Enterprise package, AnyDesk can be contacted directly for a custom quote.
KEY FEATURES:
- Works across Linux, macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, RaspberryPi, and more
- Automatically alters connection to give best viewing/media quality and speed
- File transfer, remote printing, screen recording to video
REASONS TO USE:
- In-system chat function
- Small file size and easy installation
- Can connect to multiple devices at the same time
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Users have reported that the interface can be complex to navigate once installed
- Strong internet connection required
- Media sharing restricted by lag feedback
References and Links
- https://www.g2.com/products/remotepc/reviews
- https://www.techradar.com/uk/news/best-remote-desktop-software
- https://www.getapp.co.uk/reviews/120039/anydesk
- https://www.softwaretestinghelp.com/remote-desktop-software/
- https://www.capterra.co.uk/directory/30928/remote-support/software
- https://www.techrepublic.com/article/remote-desktop-software/
- https://windowsreport.com/remote-control-software-windows-10/