17 of Our Favorite Free Remote Access Software Tools in 2024

DWService

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

This is the tool I used the last several times I remoted into a family member's computer for remote tech support. I list it as #1 for two reasons: it's incredibly easy to use for both myself and the people on the other end of the session, and it has useful tools I need to identify and fix problems remotely.

Host Side

The host has two options: download the DWAgent, and then run it for on-demand, one-time 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 the install option, you're given a user code and password that the client needs to reach the computer. Otherwise, enter the code and provided by the client so that they can have always-on access to the host computer.

Client Side

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

If the host installed the program, the setup procedure is a little more involved. Make a user account through the link below (it's totally free), and then add a new agent to your account. Give the code to the host during the program installation.

DWService has a handful of tools. Unlike some remote access programs, you don't have to open the screen sharing tool to do things like send/receive files or run commands.

The full list of tools you have access to as the client are Files and Folders, Text editor, Log watch, Resources, Screen, and Shell. They let you create all sorts of text-based files; browse through the file system to make, edit, or remove files, and upload or download files to and from the host; run Command Prompt commands; view basic system information, shut down tasks, and start or turn off services.

You can pay to use DWService if you want to increase the bandwidth limit. I haven't noticed an issue with the free version, which caps out at 6 Mbps, but if you need faster connections, some options range from 8 Mbps to 50 Mbps.

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

AnyDesk

While I have used it for remote troubleshooting, similar to DWService, I prefer AnyDesk for remote access into my own computer when I'm away (i.e., unattended access). I'm also a huge fan of its ability to work without ever being installed to my PC.

Host Side

Launch it on the computer you want to connect to and record the 9-digit number, or custom alias if one is set up. When the client connects, the host will be asked to allow or disallow the connection and can also control permissions, like to allow sound, clipboard use, and the ability to block the host's keyboard/mouse control.

Client Side

On another computer, run AnyDesk and then enter the host's Remote Desk ID or alias in the Remote Address section of the program, and wait for the host to accept the connection. You can also connect to the host from AnyDesk's web client.

If unattended access is set up, the client doesn't need to wait for the host to accept the connection. 

The program auto-updates and can enter full-screen mode, create a balance between quality and speed of the connection, transfer files and sound, sync the clipboard, record the remote session, run keyboard shortcuts, take screenshots of the remote computer, and restart 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. If you need to control your PC from your phone, install the iOS or Android app.

Getscreen.me

For a simple tool with some great features, you might consider the free remote access service Getscreen.me. If you need to quickly get into someone's computer without messing around with logins or installations, this is what you're after.

There's file sharing, a built-in chat window, buttons for common keyboard shortcuts (e.g., switch users, open Run box, open File Explorer), a system information viewer, full-screen mode, and clipboard sharing.

Host Side

The computer that will be connected to needs to download and open the software. Installation is not required, but it can be fully installed if this computer will need to be accessed remotely permanently.

There are two ways to get the client connected. One is to log in to the client's user account with their email and password, a great option if they'll be getting into this computer a lot.

The other way to use Getscreen.me is to simply open the program and share the public link. With this anonymous session, whoever you give the link to will have access to your computer without needing a password. This is perfect for spontaneous technical support, but know that the connection time is limited when the program is used anonymously like this.

The host can dictate whether a few permissions are allowed, like if the client can control the mouse/keyboard, capture sound, and make audio calls.

Client Side

There are a couple of ways to access the remote computer. If you logged in to your account in the host program, then you have permanent access, which means you can visit the link below to log in to the same account in a web browser to access the other computer.

Another way is if the host didn't log in to the account. The host can provide a URL that you can open from your device to automatically have access to the remote PC without needing your account information.

Free users are faced with a number of limitations that can be lifted only if you pay. For example, you can't record the connection or make voice calls, Wake-on-LAN won't work, and file transfers max out at 50 MB per file. See all the other differences between the plans with this comparison table.

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

Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop is an extension for the Chrome browser that lets you set up a computer for remote access. In my experience, this one isn't so great for helping out a friend remotely (especially if they're not tech-savvy), but it is excellent for accessing my own computer.

Host Side

The way this works is that you install the extension to either get a random code you can share with someone else for spontaneous support (get that code here), or a PIN that you can use to get on the computer at any time from your own Google account.

Client Side

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

Because you're logged in, you can easily see the other PC name, from where you can simply choose it and begin the remote session.

There isn't a chat function like you see with similar programs, but it's very easy to configure and lets you connect to your computer (or anyone's) from anywhere using just your web browser.

What's more is that you can remote into the computer when the user doesn't have Chrome open, or even when they're completely logged out of their user account.

Since it runs entirely within Chrome, it can work with any operating system that uses that browser, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebooks.

Windows Remote Desktop

This is the remote access software built into the Windows operating system. I like it because no additional download is necessary to use it (it's built-in) and it feels very much like you're sitting in front of the remote PC. However, compared to the other tools in this list, it's still not the easiest one to set up for most people.

Host Side

To enable connections to a computer with Windows Remote Desktop, you must open the System Properties settings accessible via Settings (W11) or Control Panel and allow remote connections via a particular Windows user.

For the host to accept incoming access requests from the client, the user needs to set up port forwarding on their router. While this is a straightforward process that anyone can do, it's still way more work than what's required of the better apps listed above.

Client Side

The other computer that wishes to connect to the host machine must simply open the already installed Remote Desktop Connection software and enter the IP address of the host.

Most of the other software in this list have features that Windows Remote Desktop doesn't, but this method of remote access seems to be the most natural and easiest way to control the mouse and keyboard of a remote Windows PC.

Once you have everything 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 can be used on Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.

However, while all versions of Windows can connect to other computers that have incoming connections enabled, not all Windows versions can act as a host (i.e. accept incoming remote access requests).

If you're using a Home Premium version or below, your computer can only act as a client and therefore cannot be accessed remotely (but it can still access other computers remotely).

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

Something else to remember is that Remote Desktop will kick a user off if they're logged in when someone connects to that user's account remotely. This is vastly different from every other program in this list—all the others can remote in to a user account while the user is still actively using the computer.

AnyViewer

From the popular software company AOMEI is AnyViewer. It installed for me in less than five seconds and has a really simple user interface that I think is easy for anyone to understand right off the bat.

Host Side

Share the device ID and security code with the client. The security code is created by the program and will change every time the software restarts. You can have it change more or less frequently by editing the program's settings—you can even set the code yourself if you want the client to be able to access the computer in the future with the same code.

Client Side

Put the host's device ID into the Start Control box, select the option to control the other computer or to transfer files, and then press Connect. On the prompt that pops up, either choose the option to send a control request to the host, and then wait for them to accept it, or enter the security code.

During a session, the client can change the resolution to better fit the display, and swap between high and low image quality to optimize quality or speed over the other.

The Operation tab during a remote session includes shortcuts to common actions: 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, and if you pay, you have the added options of disabling the host's mouse/keyboard and making the recipient's screen black.

As much as I like the option to send files, and the size limit is rather hefty at 100 MB, the maximum transfer speed is an abysmal 500 KBps. If you need to send files while using this program, you'd be better off using a service designed to send big files.

You can make a user account if you want to manage unattended devices and see the connection history. Otherwise, you can connect to the host right away after installation, so it's great for both one-off sessions and repeat users.

Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7 are supported, as is Windows Server 2022 through 2012 R2, and Android, iPad, and iPhone.

RustDesk

RustDesk is similar to AnyDesk, listed above. This program has a way for the host and client to chat (text only), and files can be sent and received. There's a 32-bit and 64-bit version, plus a portable edition that doesn't need to be installed, and mobile apps.

Host Side

The host computer (the one to be remoted into) just needs to open the program and share the ID and password with the client.

Once the client has established a connection to the host, the host user can easily disconnect the client at any time, plus control permissions through one-click toggles: disable keyboard and mouse control, disable clipboard access, mute the client from being able to hear sound, disable copy/paste.

Client Side

The client needs to enter the host machine's ID and password (the password isn't required if the host is on their computer and accepts the connection request). Then, choose either the file transfer or regular connect button to begin transferring files or connect to the host to view its screen.

There are tabs to show recent sessions, favorites, and an address book for easily reconnecting with past hosts. You can also make a desktop shortcut that will immediately start a remote session with a specific client.

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

There's also a web client that lets you reach the host without having to download the program.

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

Distant Desktop

This is another completely portable remote access program. It's also 100 percent free for both personal and commercial use, which is rare to find.

Host Side

The computer that will be controlled by the client simply needs to share its ID and password with the other computer. This simple design makes it incredibly easy for inexperienced computer users to request help from other people.

Client Side

For the computer that will be performing the remote access, press Connect and enter the host's ID and password. The tabs at the top of the program let you open multiple connections at once.

Once you're connected to the other computer, you can send files to and from them and communicate over text or using your voice. Passwords are generated automatically, but you can also choose your own to make it easier to remember.

The program is compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8, Vista, and 7, as well as some Windows Server OSs. macOS 10.15 through 13 is also supported. There's an Android app, too, that can work as the host or client.

HelpWire

HelpWire is perfect for spontaneous remote access. All you have to do is send a special link to the other person. Once you request access and they approve, you're in! I like how uncomplicated the app and setup process is, but if you're looking for a robust file transfer tool, you should look elsewhere in this list.

Host Side

This is the computer that will be controlled remotely. Just open the link the other person sent, and then launch the program that downloads. A chat window will open. Wait for the client to request access to the computer, and then press Grant access to allow it. If you want to disconnect them at any time, just 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 when they're ready (i.e., when they've opened the app on their side), select Request Access, wait for them to grant it to you, and then choose Connect to launch HelpWire Operator and see their computer.

There really isn't much to this software, which is good if you don't care for all the extras some of these apps try to juggle. Text messages can be send back and forth (and the chat box also includes a timeline of connection events), the host can revoke the client's access, the client can switch to a different monitor, and a few connection and quality settings can be adjusted.

I had a few complaints while using this remote access tool: A few times, the client was prompted to download and install the app even though it was already present, and file transfers didn't always go through despite trying over and over.

Overall, though, I think this is an excellent choice for anyone who needs to service a computer on the fly. It has the basics, it's remarkably easy to use on both sides of the session, and performance was on par with the competition.

HelpWire works on Windows and macOS.

AeroAdmin

AeroAdmin is one of the easier programs to use for free remote access. There are hardly any settings, and everything is quick and to the point, which is perfect for spontaneous support.

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 just needs to run the same program and enter the ID or IP address into their program. You can choose View only or Remote Control before you connect, and then just select Connect to request remote control.

When the host computer confirms the connection, you can start controlling the computer and share clipboard text.

It's great that AeroAdmin is absolutely free for both personal and commercial use, but it's too bad there isn't a chat option included, and really too bad that you can't transfer files.

Another note I want to make is that while the program is 100 percent free, it does limit how many hours you can use it per month — see AeroAdmin's Full License Comparison Chart for the details.

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

Quick Assist

The free Quick Assist remote access program is easy to understand and doesn't require a download because it's built-in to Windows 11 and Windows 10. Search for it through the Start menu, or browse the Windows Accessories Start menu folder, to open the program (use the link below if you can't find it).

Host Side

Type into the text box the 6-digit code that the client's computer generated, and then select Share screen. Once the client has done their part, you need to confirm that they can have access to your computer before the connection can be established.

Client Side

Choose Assist another person and then log in to your Microsoft account. Give the security code to the host and then choose Take full control or View screen to get remote access to their computer.

Once the client has connected to the host, they can change which monitor to control, annotate directly on the screen, restart the computer, and quickly open Task Manager.

UltraVNC

UltraVNC works a bit like Remote Utilities (listed at the bottom of this page), where a server and viewer is installed on two PCs, and the viewer is used to control the server.

I don't use this program as much as I used to because of its complicated setup, but it's still very capable with some great features, like remote Safe Mode access and a chat window.

Host Side

During installation, you're asked if you wish to install the Server, Viewer, or both. Install the Server on the PC you wish to connect to.

You can install Server as a system service so it's always running. This is the ideal option so that you can always make a connection to it with the client software.

Client Side

To make a connection with the Server, you must install the Viewer portion during setup.

After configuring port forwarding in your router, you'll be able to access the host computer from anywhere with an internet connection—either via 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 make the connection.

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

The download page is a little confusing—first select the most recent version of the software, and then choose the 32-bit or 64-bit setup file that will work with your edition of Windows.

Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7 users can install and use the latest software version. Older Windows versions can install an earlier edition of the software.

Jump Desktop

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 that will 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 get in.

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

Client Side

The client connects to the host with Jump Desktop. The easiest way to establish a connection with the remote computer is to open the host's link, which contains a specific string of numbers associated with that computer.

Keyboard settings are available for the client so you can modify shortcut keys. You can build one set of shortcuts for when you connect to a Windows PC, and another set for when you're remoting into a Mac computer.

During a session, the client can view the remote computer in fullscreen or a normal window. The frame rate and bandwidth can be edited, too, and there's a menu to send specific keys.

There's an app for Windows, Mac, and iOS.

Iperius Remote

Iperius Remote is a breeze to use and has some awesome features like a robust file transfer tool and chat application. It also lets you connect to a computer remotely with their mobile app.

Host Side

Open the program and select Allow connections to see your password. Share that and the ID next to it with the client so that they can connect to the computer.

Client Side

Enter the host computer's ID into the second text box, press Connect, and then enter the password when you see the password prompt.

This free remote access program 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 interface is extremely simple and easy to understand. During a remote connection, you can send the Ctrl+Alt+Del shortcut, choose which display to view, switch to full screen mode, and open the file transfer or chat utility.

If you want more control, you can open the settings to enable continuous access, a custom password, a proxy, etc.

Supported operating systems include 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7, as well as Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016, and 2012. There's also an app for macOS, Android, and iOS.

LiteManager

LiteManager is strikingly similar to Remote Utilities, listed below. However, unlike that program, which can control a total of only 10 PCs, this one supports up to 30 slots for storing and connecting to remote computers, and also has lots of useful features.

Host Side

The computer that needs to be accessed should install the LiteManager Pro – Server.msi program (it's free), which is contained in the downloaded ZIP file.

There are numerous ways to ensure a connection can be made to the host computer. It can be done through the IP address, computer name, or an ID. 

The easiest way to set this up is to right-click the server program in the notification area of the taskbar, choose Connect by ID, erase the contents that are already there, and click Connected to generate a brand new ID.

Client Side

The other program, called Viewer, is installed for the client to connect to the host. Once the host computer has produced an ID, the client should enter it from the Connect by ID option in the Connection menu to establish a remote connection to the other computer.

Once connected, the client can do all sorts of things, much like with Remote Utilities, such as work with multiple monitors, transfer files silently, take full control or read-only access of the other PC, run a remote task manager, launch files and programs remotely, capture sound, edit the registry, create a demonstration, lock the other person's screen and keyboard, and text chat.

There's also a QuickSupport option, which is a portable server and viewer program that makes connecting much quicker than the above method.

I tested LiteManager in Windows 10, but it should also work just fine in Windows 11, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. This program is available for macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, too.

DesktopNow

DesktopNow is a free remote access program from NCH Software. After optionally forwarding the proper port number in your router, and signing up for a free account, you can access your PC from anywhere through a web browser.

Host Side

The computer that will be accessed remotely needs to have the DesktopNow software installed.

When the program is first launched, your email and a password should be entered so you can use the same credentials on the client side to make the connection.

The host computer can either configure its router to forward the proper port number to itself or choose cloud access during the install to make a direct connection to the client, bypassing the need for complicated forwarding.

It's probably a better idea for most people to use the direct, cloud access method to avoid issues with port forwarding.

Client Side

The client just needs to access the host through a web browser. If the router was configured to forward the port number, the client would use the host PCs IP address to connect. If cloud access was chosen, a specific link would have been given to the host that you'd use for the connection.

DesktopNow has a nice file-sharing feature that lets you download your shared files remotely in an easy-to-use file browser.

There isn't a dedicated application for mobile devices, so trying to view and control a computer from a phone or tablet can be difficult. However, the website is optimized for mobile phones, so viewing your shared files is easy.

64-bit versions of Windows are supported. This includes Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7.