The Best Remote PC Access Software Reviews of 2023- business.com

Q: What should you look for in a remote access solution?

Remote PC access software is great for a number of 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 technology protocols. Support agents and help desks use remote PC access software to remotely aid people experiencing technical issues or glitches.

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

Not really. Users always run a security risk when accessing a shared public Wi-Fi, especially if they have no other security measures in place. For example, if you are connecting to a public Wi-Fi, you are most likely connecting to an open port on a firewall u2013 which is not safe. Open ports leave you vulnerable to attackers who can see where your RDP connection is hosted. Although you may be fairly secure to trivial attacks, always implement additional security measures when using remote access software on public Wi-Fi, like using a virtual private network.

Best Remote PC Access Software

Remote PC access software can be a valuable business tool to provide your employees with off-site device access, offer remote technical support, facilitate onboarding and improve collaboration for distributed teams. The best solutions are easy to use, provide high-speed performance and can successfully 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	Free version
RemotePC by IDrive	9.5/10	Small teams	1-2 years	$19.50 per year	7 days	Windows, Mac, Linux, Raspberry Pi, Chrome OS, iOS, Android, Fire OS	Both	Text chat, whiteboard	yes	iOS, Android	No
Splashtop	9.7/10	Creative workers	Annual	$60 per year	7 days	Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, iOS, Android	Both	Text chat, whiteboard	yes	iOS, Android	No
ConnectWise Control	9.6/10	Remote troubleshooting	Monthly and Annual	$27 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	No
Zoho Assist	9.5/10	Integrated remote support and unattended 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	Yes
GoTo Resolve	9.5/10	Browser-based support	Monthly and Annual	$55 per month	14 days	Windows, Mac, iOS, Android	Cloud-based	Text chat, camera share add-on, Slack and MS Teams integrations, video chat during camera share	Yes	iOS, Android add-ons	Yes
Freshdesk	8.9/10	Integrated help desk solution	Monthly and Annual	$15 per agent per month	21 days	Windows, iOS, Android	Cloud-based	Text chat	Yes	iOS, Android add-ons	Yes
ISL Online	8.8/10	Diverse hosting options	Annual or lifetime	$469 per license per year	15 days	Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android	Cloud, on-premises, hybrid	Text chat, audio, video, whiteboard	Yes	iOS, Android, Windows	No
Impero Connect	8.7/10	Enterprise remote access	Annual	$33 per device per year (less with 50+ devices)	Yes	Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, Toshiba 4690	Cloud, on-premises, hybrid	Text chat	Yes	Android, Windows	No
Wrike	7.9/10	Remote collaboration	Monthly and 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	Yes
Jamf	9.1/10	Apple remote device management	Annual	$4 per device per month	Yes	Mac, iOS	Both	Screen share	No	iOS	No

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 might charge based on the number of concurrent sessions you want to allow. Also, make sure to note whether a company offers a monthly or an annual plan – even when offering a monthly subscription, most providers offer discounts if you pay on a yearly basis.

Remember that some companies charge separately for features like unattended and mobile device access, so factor additional fees like these into your budget.

Tip

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, be sure to ask the company questions related to the following topics:

Free trials or special discounts: Many providers offer a seven- to 21-day free trial, 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, mobile device access or advanced features like camera share. 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. That said, some solutions offer a free plan for a limited number of users.
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 off-site.

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 a 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 if they are connected to a local area network (LAN).

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, multimonitor navigation, and remote functions like printing or session 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 input, pausing the session recording when entering sensitive data, 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 Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) and Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements (SSAE).

Passwords are a given for remote PC access software, and users often need to enter a unique personal key to access a remote machine or session. Many companies also 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.

FYI

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

What Can Remote PC Access Software Do for Me?

Whether you chose or were required to ask your employees to work from home or your IT department needs a software solution to control and troubleshoot devices remotely, remote access is a key component of many businesses.

Off-site 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. Some companies go even further and attempt to fully mimic your office environment by providing multimonitor access, the ability to choose a preferred screen resolution, and even an option to use a remote microphone or capture sound. Many providers prioritize offering a high-speed connection with minimal latency to ensure a seamless remote experience.

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.

FYI

According to a 2022 study from Buffer, 72% of companies worldwide are now officially allowing some amount of remote work. That is compared to 46% that stated the same in 2021, and this trend is likely to continue. With more remote workers than ever before, businesses must offer remote technical support.

Remote Customer Support

A remote access solution is essential for companies that want to provide remote customer support. Many solutions offer an option to share a screen (both for the customer and the agent), add annotations so that the customer can recreate the solution if they ever encounter the same problem in the future, and jump on an audio call to cut down on the back-and-forth email communication.

Virtual Courses and Collaboration

Some programs even allow for web conferencing and whiteboard drawing, 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 reference and training.

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, offering comprehensive functionality only 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. However, pay attention to which plan the trial gives you access to; some solutions automatically put you on a higher-tier plan during the trial and then lock some of the features when it ends.

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 screen captures.
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 and 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.
Multimonitor 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 reconn
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.
Invite technicians: Invite another technician to join a remote session that is already in progress. This is particularly helpful if the original technician needs a second pair of eyes on the issue or requires additional expertise.
Transfer session: Transfer the online session in progress to another technician who is more qualified to deal with a specific issue.
Wake-on-LAN: Use the remote access software to turn on a remote device that is sleeping or completely turned off.

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, affordability, 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. In fact, a study from Owl Labs shows that 90% of U.S. employees achieve the same or greater productivity when working remotely compared to in-office work. Accessing an office desktop via various devices can allow you and 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 networks?

Not really. Access to shared public Wi-Fi networks is always a security risk, especially if no other security measures are in place. For example, if you are connecting to a public Wi-Fi network, 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 networks.

What are some of the risks when 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 on the hook for monitoring only 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 cyber threats. 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 software?

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 2023

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

With this in mind, it makes sense that the global remote desktop software market is projected to grow to nearly $6 billion by 2028, according to Fortune Business Insights. 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.

Our Reviews

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

GoTo Resolve

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.

visit site

GoTo Resolve 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. Previously known as GoTo Assist (formerly LogMeIn), GoTo Resolve combines remote access features with live ticketing and IT management functionality. While some competitors require you to install their software on the devices you are connecting to, GoTo Resolve 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 GoTo Resolve 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.

Editor’s Score: 9.5/10

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, GoTo Resolve does not limit the type or size of files you can transfer during a live session. If necessary, you can set up GoTo Resolve to record automatically when a session starts. These recordings can then be shared with customers for future reference or support training. You can initiate a screen share, communicate with the customer via chat and add session notes. We also like that you can invite other technicians to join the session by simply sharing a nine-digit code.

GoTo Resolve offers a camera share add-on that allows technicians to connect to the end user’s mobile camera and troubleshoot issues with nondigital products and hardware. There is no installation required from the user’s side; they can simply follow a shared link. We like that, unlike many of the reviewed competitors that offer camera share as an on-demand feature for top-tier users, GoTo Resolve allows users on all plans to purchase as an add-on.

GoTo Resolve also includes essential help desk features, and users can submit tickets via a dedicated portal or by sending an email to a dedicated email address. We appreciate that its integration with Slack and Microsoft Teams allows users to submit tickets straight from their chatting solutions. We also like that the product is highly customizable and allows admins to add branding elements, set up triggers for automations and define access levels on a granular level.

The platform’s endpoint protection software manages and monitors antivirus software through one, easy-to-use dashboard. Users can request status updates, initiate scans and view lists of threats. GoTo Resolve also features automated patch management, allowing the automatic deployment of Widows patches to keep software up-to-date without interrupting users while protecting them against threats.

Since GoTo Resolve 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 available only 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, GoTo Resolve often works without requiring you to change firewall settings on remote devices.

Read GoToAssist Remote PC Access Review

RemotePC: Best Remote PC Access Software for Small Teams

RemotePC

RemotePC offers 24/7 chat and email support.

RemotePC's pricing model makes it cost-effective for small teams that need unlimited user licenses and concurrent sessions.

Some essential remote access and support features, like file transfer, session recording and whiteboards, are limited for Linux users.

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. 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 transfer, remote printing and session recording. We were glad to see that RemotePC provides most of its features across all pricing plans rather than restricting the lower tiers, as some competitors do. We were also impressed with its more advanced functions, 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 instant chat, digital whiteboard and an easy way to send session invitations to other technicians.

RemotePC has recently introduced the Performance Viewer, which allows users with limited bandwidth to access remote computers at the speed of up to 60 fps. This feature is extremely helpful for remote teams that don’t always have access to a high-speed connection outside of the office but need to be able to use the demanding programs nonetheless.

Users can also access an on-demand remote support solution, RemotePC HelpDesk. This release offers an array of useful features for IT admins and managed service providers (MSPs), as well as a simplified UI.Features include single sign-on, chat support, file transfer, screen sharing, performance viewer, multiple monitor display, and the ability to record helpdesk sessions.

RemotePC also offers mobile remote access, which provides secure access to remote desktops via iOS or Android devices to easily manage desktops from any location. As long as users have access to the internet, they can take advantage of features like copy-paste text and real-time screen sharing. RemotePC mobile access offers all users a flexible, secure and private option to transfer files and utilize an extended keyboard easily.

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

Zoho Assist Remote PC Access: Best Remote PC Access Software for Integrated Remote Support and Unattended Access

Zoho Assist Remote PC Access

Designed specifically for SMBs, Zoho's plans are affordable and comprehensive; there is even a limited free version.

Zoho Assist integrates with numerous third-party apps and other Zoho products.

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 integrated remote PC support and unattended 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 either 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 multimonitor navigation, clipboard sharing, instant text and voice chat, two-factor authentication, idle-session timeout, organization roles, and user management.

You can connect Zoho Assist to numerous third-party integrations as well as other products from the Zoho Suite, like Zoho CRM and Zoho Desk. This way, you can provide an integrated solution and facilitate cross-team collaboration. Zoho Assist also offers comprehensive mobile device support and mobile apps that closely mirror the web app, with features like file transfer, screen capture and instant chat.

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

Zoho Assist also offers an augmented reality (AR) camera share 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 smartphone or smart glass live video stream to render AR remote assistance sessions. This is available to all customers.

Read Zoho Assist Remote PC Access Review

Splashtop Remote PC Access: Best Remote PC Access Software for Creative Workers

Splashtop Remote PC Access

Splashtop supports most platforms and devices, including a stylus and a pen tablet input.

Two users can remotely access a computer at the same time.

Splashtop offers annual billing only.

Splashtop is our top choice for the best remote PC access solution for creative workers in industries like media, design and game development. The software is compatible with most platforms and a wide range of devices, including Mac, Windows, Chromebook, iOS and Android. Thanks to its partnership with Wacom, Splashtop also supports essential creative tools like a stylus and a pen tablet, even going as far as mirroring the applied pressure and orientation, making it easy for creative workers to recreate their office settings. Users can connect from and to multiple monitors, access remote microphones, and benefit from HD-quality video and audio.

Editor’s Score: 9.7/10

Creative workers require access to demanding platforms like graphic design, video editing or 3D animation programs. This makes having a high-speed remote connection essential for their work. Splashtop offers 4K streaming at up to 60 fps and iMac Pro Retina 5K streaming, with minimal latency, which is ideal for a seamless experience.

Splashtop also offers extensive collaboration tools, making it easy for specialists across teams to work together. For example, 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 we found especially valuable is that multiple team members can remotely access a computer simultaneously. This can be useful for team members collaborating on a creative project or preparing a presentation for a client. What’s more, two users can simultaneously log in to the same computer, a feature we found rare in other reviewed solutions. If some of the teammates can’t join a session, you have the option to record sessions and save them to your local computer for future use.

Additionally, the company offers Splashtop AR, a virtual field service support feature that utilizes augmented reality with mobile camera sharing. Another feature, Splashtop Connector, allows IT administrators to remotely access computers inaccessible via internet access or third-party applications. Both features are available for Enterprise plan users on request.

Splashtop also offers comprehensive remote support and endpoint management features, including multicomputer management, remote wake and reboot, customizable technician alerts, support queue, and unattended Android access. On the Enterprise plan, end users can connect directly with a technician simply by clicking on the “SOS Call” button to get quick support.

Having remote teams 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, multilevel password security, view-only remote access, 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.

Spalshtop also offers Splashtop Antivirus powered by Bitdefender. The anti-malware and antivirus security capability is an add-on service available to users. With the new Splashtop technology, MSPs and IT teams can better protect their users on multiple devices by securing endpoints and enabling secure remote access.

Read Splashtop Remote PC Access Review

ConnectWise Control Remote PC Access: Best Remote PC Access Software for Remote Troubleshooting

ConnectWise Control Remote PC Access

ConnectWise Control is compatible with most platforms and nearly every major browser, making it easy for a technician to assist any user.

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 (formerly ScreenConnect) is our choice for the best remote PC access solution for remote troubleshooting. While it can be used to access your own remote device, we particularly like its remote support functionality. ConnectWise Control works across multiple platforms and with nearly every major browser, making it easy for IT teams to provide support to most users.

Editor’s Score: 9.6/10

During a session, technicians can communicate with end users via text or audio chat. Considering that most competitors restrict communication options to instant live chat, we found this feature particularly helpful for prompt remote troubleshooting and clear communication between parties during remote support sessions or meetings. If necessary, you can view one or more monitors during a session. ConnectWise also lets you record a video of any remote session or, uniquely, capture sound. We also found it helpful that ConnectWise Control allows you to send messages between remote computers without initiating a remote session.

The ConnectWise View camera sharing extension helps resolve on-site issues like hardware malfunctions without sending in a technician. The add-on allows IT teams to connect directly to the users’ mobile cameras and get a firsthand account of an error in real time. We appreciate that the connection requires no installation from the user’s side, accelerating the resolution process.

Our research found that ConnectWise Control offers more than 100 integrations, which puts it ahead of the competition. It can connect to third-party apps like Zendesk or Microsoft Outlook, as well as numerous ConnectWise tools that can expand the product’s functionality by adding advanced reporting, diagnostics, automation options and more. ConnectWise Control’s settings and processes can be customized to fit your business’s needs, and you can even adjust its look and feel to fit your brand.

ConnectWise Control not only provides support and grants advanced access to remote devices, but 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.

ConnectWise has increased security for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) through a consolidated identity and management platform provided by Evo Security. Evo Elevated Access was made for MSPs specifically, creating unique solutions that enhance security for MSPs and end-users. One of these features is the ability to eliminate password-sharing and multifactor authentication code-sharing among technicians and administrators. Instead, Evo Elevated Access ensures the technician’s identity is verified to prevent any cybersecurity attacks.

Read ConnectWise Control Remote PC Access Review

jamf: Best Remote PC Access Software for Apple Remote Device Management

jamf

Jamf allows you to automate and scale ongoing device management and deployment tasks for iOS and Mac.

You can connect personal devices with User Enrollment, which separates personal and business data.

Due to its specialization, Jamf only works with Apple devices.

Jamf is our choice as the best remote access solution for companies looking to deploy, access, manage and provide support for Apple devices. With its clear specialization, Jamf is a leading solution in the niche market. It comes in two major products: Jamf Pro and Jamf Now. The former is tailored to large IT teams and enterprises, while the latter is best suited for smaller teams and growing businesses.

Editor’s Score: 9.1/10

Jamf allows you to remotely access and manage Apple devices on an individual and mass scale. We like that you can enroll devices into deployment programs so that they can be added to Jamf and connected to the company’s environment straight out of the box, without the need to involve IT teams. Once devices are connected, you can view and manage computer groups, IT automations, configurations and patch management options.

Jamf allows you to quickly onboard new users by applying a defined list of settings, configuring their Wi-Fi and email settings, setting a schedule for software updates, and more. We found it particularly helpful that, when deploying a mass software update, Jamf allows you to take a before-and-after snapshot of the installation, making it easier to revert to a previous version in case of any issues.

Jamf gives technicians excellent visibility into the devices’ performance by providing them with access to the inventory data with the information on the used hardware, security measures, installed apps, potential threats and more. We like that you can automatically create device groups based on the inventory items in order to automate management tasks. We also appreciate that Jamf allows technicians to create a self-service portal that they can populate with approved apps; users can then access it at any time and install one of the select apps without involving the IT team.

Jamf’s device management and remote access come with enterprise-grade security measures, including passwordless authentication, passcode and FileVault enforcement, remote device wipe and lock, conditional access, threat detection, SSO, and a zero-trust security approach. Jamf also helps your company comply with all major legislation, such as HIPAA, PCI and FERPA.

We particularly appreciate that Jamf offers same-day iOS support, which helps ensure that the devices and apps stay current with all the latest Apple updates. We find it significant given the complex infrastructures that often come with enterprises and large organizations.

Freshdesk

Freshdesk offers unparalleled automated customer support features.

It has several collaboration and organization features for customer support teams.

Many user management, automation and reporting features are available on top-tier plans only.

Freshdesk by Freshworks is our choice as the best integrated help desk solution. It’s a comprehensive software solution 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 found it helpful that Freshdesk offers a shared inbox, which acts as a shared email account for multiple agents to send and receive emails from and store customer information for easy access. From there, you can integrate Freshdesk with the company’s Freshworks CRM solution to ensure collaboration between customer support and sales teams. Learn more in our full review of Freshworks CRM.

Editor’s Score: 8.9/10

We like that you can also provide support in various ways, such as via 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.

We appreciate that you can integrate Freshdesk with other Freshworks products for an integrated help desk experience. For example, you can link it to Freshconnect and enable your agents to chat in real time and resolve issues together.

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 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.

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

ISL Online

You can choose from cloud, on-premises and hybrid hosting.

ISL Online is one of the only companies we reviewed that offer 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, as well as a hybrid cloud remote desktop solution. A self-hosted option allows users to install ISL Online on their company servers and benefit from increased privacy and security. It also makes it possible to customize the look and feel of the program and its interface to fit your brand.

Editor’s Score: 8.8/10

The MPC is for large businesses that want the security of an on-premises solution and the convenience of a cloud-hosted solution. In this case, ISL Online offers exclusive hosting in a public data center like AWS or Azure, or in a company’s private center. This solution is optimal for users who want extensive customization options and scalability. The original equipment (OE) option allows users to integrate the remote PC access solution straight into their product. For this, the ISL Online Team is on call 24/7 to take care of hosting remote desktop sessions and managing the network infrastructure.

ISL Online offers essential remote support features like screen share, session recording file transfer and multimonitor navigation. We like that ISL Online provides instant text, audio and video call options and a digital whiteboard, making it easy to communicate with the customer and troubleshoot issues. We also found it helpful that a technician or a customer support agent can blank the user’s screen and even reboot and reconnect the remote computer without the user leaving the online session.

We like that each ISL Online plan has some degree of customization. For example, you may be able to add on multisession licenses, 24/7 premium support, or updates and upgrades. Regardless of your chosen hosting method or plan, 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 Online 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.

Impero: Best Remote PC Access Software for Enterprise Remote Access

Impero

Before implementing, you can automate remote access routines and test them for security weaknesses.

Impero Connect offers multifactor authentication through its own email authentication channel, among others.

The remote control add-on for mobile devices supports Android and Windows only.

Previously known as Netop Remote Control, Impero Connect is our choice for enterprises looking for a comprehensive and secure remote PC access solution. Secure remote connection is essential, especially for large businesses that transmit highly sensitive information. We were impressed with the layers upon layers of security measures provided by the company. Admins can create specific roles, assign them to particular devices and even set schedules for their access. If a company is working with external contractors or consultants, it’s possible to give them restricted and temporary access to the company’s environment, clearly defining their permissions. During remote sessions, Impero Connect supports file transfer, screen share, and instant text and audio chats that come with unalterable logs.

Editor’s Score: 8.7/10

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

We appreciate the various security options that Impero Connect offers to help you comply with privacy regulations and further increase security. These include end-to-end 256-bit AES encryption, multifactor authentication and customizable security roles. You can keep extensive and accurate logs with session recordings and audit trails, set up IP and time-of-day filters, and whitelist applications. Impero Connect also guarantees your company’s compliance. Whether it is the GDPR, PCI DSS, ISO, or HIPAA that you must comply with, Impero Connect can ensure your information remains safe and secure within its platform. It is also compatible with zero-trust security frameworks. You can easily contact a representative by phone or online if you have any compliance concerns.

We found that Impero Connect excels at bulk deployment and access, and allows you to send up to 500 email invites at once to encourage users across the organization to connect their devices. You can add deployment packages that are applied to specific user groups and follow a set schedule. Impero Connect also makes it easy to ensure all the connected devices and even used apps are secure, and can help terminate any unwanted processes at scale.

Impero Connect supports Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android, as well as all major browsers. What’s more, Impero Connect supports specialized machines like IIoT, ATMs and medical devices. Considering the variety of users and devices that come with the enterprise scale, this compatibility is essential for the success of large companies.

Wrike: Best Remote PC Access Software for Remote Collaboration

Wrike

You can view a live activity stream and discuss your projects and tasks in the comments.

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. We also were impressed with how you can tag your teammate in a comment to collaborate on a task or accelerate the decision-making process. 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 mobile apps allow team members to remotely access their tasks, collaborate on projects and share files while away from their desk. We found it helpful that they allow users to use AI-powered smart replies and add quick emojis to the comments.

Wrike ensures your collaboration is secure with two-factor authentication, single sign-on (SSO), 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 customers to power end-to-end creative processes in one place and eliminates app toggling and version control issues.

We like that Wrike offers a Free plan with unlimited users, mobile apps and a variety of project templates, making it accessible to smaller companies. It also connects to more than 400 integrations, allowing you to create a truly custom and integrated solution for your business.

Wrike also offers a unified work management platform called Wrike Lightspeed. The platform features an easy-to-learn, intuitive interface, artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and a sleek design. With the increase in remote and hybrid work, this platform can solve a potential problem for many businesses by aligning teams companywide and improving workplace connectivity through one comprehensive view.

The Best Remote PC Access Software of 2023

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.