Our best remote PC access tools give your IT team full control over company technology, whether employees are on-site or remote.
Written By: Jeff Hale Business Operations Insider and Senior Analyst Verified Check With Border Verified Check With Border Editor ReviewedThis guide was reviewed by a Business News Daily editor to ensure it provides comprehensive and accurate information to aid your buying decision.
Business Strategy Insider and Senior EditorMany businesses today utilize a dispersed workforce. Some employees work from home, while others may work in different offices. Ensuring they all have updated and up-and-running devices can be challenging in this situation. To solve this problem, many organizations utilize remote access software. This software allows support teams to track, monitor, and troubleshoot company devices to ensure team members have everything they need to stay productive. This software can serve as an enterprise-grade remote access solution for IT support teams, an effective telecommuting platform for remote workers or an easy-to-use technical support system for customers. To find the best options, we spent countless hours analyzing and researching dozens of options. Solutions like Remote PC, Zoho Assist and Freshdesk check all of the boxes we were looking for. Below are the solutions we think are best.
Best for Small Businesses
Links to RemotePC
Links to Freshdesk
At Business News Daily, we’ve spent years researching and testing the technology that enables entrepreneurs to accomplish their goals and scale their businesses more efficiently. Our team of small business tech specialists conducts independent evaluations of the best technology platforms to determine which best meet the needs of small business owners. We also regularly consult with technology experts. including IT professionals, developers, implementation specialists and cybersecurity professionals, to stay on top of the latest tech trends impacting small businesses. And every review we publish is evaluated by our editorial staff to ensure objectivity, accuracy and fairness are at the core of our decision-making. Learn more about our editorial guidelines.
To identify the best remote PC access software, our team of small business technology experts conducted firsthand testing of the best solutions available. We examined pricing and plans, as well as overall usability and core features like compatibility, security protocols, ticketing functions, automation tools and more. We also looked for software that offered detailed.
Read More Read MoreTo identify the best remote PC access software, our team of small business technology experts conducted firsthand testing of the best solutions available. We examined pricing and plans, as well as overall usability and core features like compatibility, security protocols, ticketing functions, automation tools and more. We also looked for software that offered detailed reports so you can review your entire technology ecosystem and monitor for threats or security risks. Additionally, we analyzed customer reviews from IT professionals and business owners who use these platforms every day to help inform our decisions.
22 15 5To identify the best remote PC access software, our team of small business technology experts conducted firsthand testing of the best solutions available. We examined pricing and plans, as well as overall usability and core features like compatibility, security protocols, ticketing functions, automation tools and more. We also looked for software that offered detailed reports so you can review your entire technology ecosystem and monitor for threats or security risks. Additionally, we analyzed customer reviews from IT professionals and business owners who use these platforms every day to help inform our decisions.
22 15 5
All-in-one remote support and access
Automated customer support
Hybrid-remote computer access
No-download live support
$29.95 to $899.25 for two years
$0 to $24 per user
$0 to $79 per user
$5 to $8.25 per user
$0 to $190 per month
$15 annual overage charge per computer
$4 monthly storage; $1 VoIP credits
Up to $1.20 for Bitdefender endpoint security
$20 for mobile; $31 for camera-share
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RemotePC is an excellent remote access solution for small businesses that don’t have dedicated IT staff. It supports every major computer operating system, including mobile devices, at home or in the office, and offers easy-to-implement software that doesn’t require installation before use. Team members are able to access the software with a web browser, using an access ID and a unique password for a secure connection to RemotePC. We found the software to be designed simply so anyone at any experience level can easily access and navigate their system.
The RemotePC Performance Viewer allows users with limited bandwidth to access remote computers at speeds up to 60 fps, which is helpful for team members who don’t have consistent access to high-speed connections outside of the office. RemotePC also offers RemotePC HelpDesk, a solution specifically designed for IT administrators and managed service providers. Among the features RemotePC HelpDesk offers that we found to be most valuable include the ability to support customers with single sign-on, chat-based communication, file transfer capabilities, screen sharing, a performance viewer, multi-monitor display support, and the option to record helpdesk sessions.
There’s nothing complicated about the RemotePC interface, as shown here on a Windows-to-Windows connection. Source: RemotePC
As you’d expect from one of our Best Picks, RemotePC scores highly on TrustRadius, with an overall score of 8.6 out of 10. The company received a Top Rated award from TrustRadius in 2024, and every one of the 21 reviews is between 7 and 10 out of 10.
Read More ArrowZoho Assist is an integrated remote PC support and unattended access solution with cloud-based remote access. We like that Zoho Assist is compatible with platforms as diverse as MacOS, Raspberry Pi and Linux, and doesn’t require installation, allowing for quick connection via a web browser. All plans include a number of essential features and integrations. Every package comes with two-factor authentication, organization roles, idle-session timeout, multi-monitor navigation, clipboard sharing, and instant text and voice chat.
Zoho Assist’s new Remote Audio feature enhances support by helping troubleshoot audio issues, such as muffled or distorted sound, ensuring a smooth experience for both support technicians and clients. This tool allows technicians to listen to audio from clients’ remote devices and facilitate diagnosis, configuration adjustments and detailed guidance. Remote Audio’s user-friendly interface allows technicians to access and assess audio settings across different platforms. We were also impressed with Zoho’s Zia, an AI-powered platform utilized in ChatGPT. This platform enables technicians to use natural language processing to analyze customer inquiries, provide instant responses and suggest relevant solutions.
Screen recording on mobile devices may be useful for quality control and training. Source: Zoho Assist
Zoho Assist performs reasonably well on TrustRadius, where it has received a score of 7.2 out of 10 from almost a hundred reviews and ratings. Users praised its simplicity and file transfer capabilities, while citing concerns over delays and response times.
Read More ArrowFreshdesk’s AI-powered omnichannel platform offers an excellent integrated remote help desk solution, making it easy to assign and link support tickets and create custom ticket statuses. When demoing the platform, we found that teamwork is simple through shared ownership of tickets, the ability to split tickets into smaller tasks, and the power to link similar issues to ensure those with expertise can efficiently handle relevant issues. We like how these intelligent assignments make ticketing easier by organizing tasks based on team members’ capabilities and capacity or using the round-robin method.
Freshdesk also helps users tailor their solution with a multitude of helpful features, including the ability to access a shared inbox for multiple agents. You can also manage your staff through features like service tasks and groups, scheduling dashboards and time tracking. Automated functions like dispatching and assigning tickets, sending out email notifications and omni-routing emails, remove painstaking tasks from employee responsibilities.
Freshdesk functionality encompasses 360-degree customer views, AI-powered bots and a wider suite of software tools. Source: Freshworks
With a top-rated accolade to its name, Freshdesk scores a reassuring 8.6 out of 10 on TrustRadius from over 500 reviews. A remarkable 98 percent of customers described it as good value and 94 percent would buy it again; the few complaints related to technical factors like ticket status.
Read More ArrowSplashtop’s Business Access packages are a great remote access solution for creative professionals and businesses with hybrid or remote employees and hot-desk setups. We were impressed with the array of collaborative features and integrations with popular business software. All Splashtop plans and basic features are compatible with Mac, Windows, ChromeOS, iOS and Android; it’s also compatible with accessories that connect to your devices such as styluses and pen tablets.
We like how Splashtop lets you share your desktops through a web browser, transfer files and chat during remote sessions. Users can also access remote microphones and enjoy HD-quality video and audio. With 4K streaming up to 60 fps and iMac Pro Retina 5K streaming, Splashtop can support powerful programs for graphic design, video editing and 3D animation. For added security, we found it valuable that users can take advantage of Splashtop Antivirus powered by Bitdefender, an add-on service. The anti-malware and antivirus security capability offers users a better way to protect their devices, particularly when securing endpoints and enabling secure remote access.
An example of a stylus being used during a remote access session. Credit: Splashtop
With more reviews than any of the four other Best Picks in this guide, a total of 682 reviews and ratings have seen Splashtop achieve a healthy 8.7 out of 10 score on TrustRadius. Users praise the customer service and value, with many people indicating they have no criticisms at all – unusual in this sector.
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GoTo Resolve, formerly known as GoTo Assist, is a great remote access option for business owners who need a product that offers unlimited live support without requiring customers to download software. We found it to be a cost-effective solution for IT service companies and large businesses that combines remote access features with live ticketing and IT management functions. We like how GoTo Resolve provides a secure connection through any standard web browser and allows users to download an unattended installer onto end-user devices or add the GoTo Resolve toolbar to their computer.
The platform is both customizable and compatible with a variety of devices. With a camera-share add-on, a variety of help desk features and key integrations, we like that GoTo Resolve gives businesses the tools they need to be successful. Users can submit tickets through a portal or by sending an email. Integrations with Slack and Microsoft Teams let team members submit tickets directly from their messaging solutions. Customizations also allow admins to set triggers for automation, add branding elements and define team member access levels.
Scotching the myth that remote access platforms are confusing, GoTo Resolve simplifies the process of seeking remote support on any device. Source: GoTo Resolve
Another top-rated platform on TrustRadius, GoTo Resolve scores an 8.1 out of 10 overall from 216 reviews and ratings. In total, 95 percent of users were happy with the feature set, but some less positive reviews mentioned system glitches and limited customer support.
Read More ArrowIf the five platforms above aren’t ticking the right boxes in terms of remote PC access software, we’ve highlighted additional options below that might be better suited to your business’s needs:
Combining an extensive roster of over 80 features with extremely low starting prices, ISL Online has ticked many boxes with its Light remote access package. The platform is Windows, Mac and Linux compatible and works on Android and iOS devices, supporting multiple monitors, session recording and a black screen mode for protecting sensitive information. A generous 15-day free trial is offered, while prices are tiered depending on frequency of use. The Pay Per Use package costs just $0.25 per minute over 500 minutes, supporting five users; the most affordable unlimited users/devices/access package is the $34.90 Standard service. This also includes additional features like device permissions and user management.
An excellent solution for remote troubleshooting, ConnectWise Control offers scalable remote access and custom security features. It can work across multiple platforms with most major browsers, while the Premium-level ConnectWise View plan gives users an array of valuable tools. The camera-sharing extension makes resolving on-site issues, such as hardware malfunctions, possible without the inconvenience of sending an in-person technician. ConnectWise Control offers more than 100 integrations and allows connections to third-party apps like Zendesk and Microsoft Outlook. Users can also utilize advanced reporting, diagnostics, automation options and VoIP for business. Each plan, which includes security features and packages for remote support and unattended access, ranges from $27 to $52 per month.
Wrike is a collaborative solution for remote workers that operates on a cloud-based platform. Remote access is available through Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices to help businesses collaborate externally and internally and view interactive boards and spreadsheets. Wrike also offers a mobile app that lets users remotely access their tasks, share files and collaborate on projects. The solution features a valuable file and video proofing tool, visual markup tools and multistage approvals. Wrike’s interactive Gantt charts also make it easy for users to schedule tasks, manage deadlines with drag-and-drop tools and visualize projects. Wrike has an appealing free plan for unlimited users, with numerous project templates and mobile app access. There are paid Professional, Business, Enterprise and Pinnacle packages to suit different business sizes and needs. Users can also connect to more than 400 integrations and build a custom solution.
Formerly known as Netop, this comprehensive and secure remote PC access solution is available as a cloud or on-premises service. With classroom management, advanced logging, user-board permission and audit logs for oversight of remote activity, Impero offers a variety of features that make it easy for large businesses to confidently navigate their projects while remaining in compliance. Impero can support a variety of devices and manage large-scale businesses. The solution works with Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, and all major browsers; it also supports specialized machines like medical devices. The three cloud packages all have the same features; pricing depends on the number of devices you need access to. For example, access for 5-49 devices means you’ll pay between $33 and $27 per year per device (the price decreases the more devices you have).
Baked into a more comprehensive suite of software tools, Jamf Remote Assist is a Mac-only platform that enables administrators to troubleshoot enrolled devices remotely. As part of the Jamf Pro platform, it supports connections outside internal networks, and PCs can connect to Macs using the most popular web browsers. It’s important to note that Jamf Pro includes features that aren’t directly relevant to remote access, such as app lifecycle management. A two-week free trial is offered, while basic packages start at $4 per user per month. Additionally, it’s possible to manage three devices for free. More sophisticated packages have 25-user minimum totals and extend to threat prevention and identity-based access.
The average cost of remote access software can be challenging to determine since vendors often use different pricing structures. For example, some companies charge based on the number of individual user licenses, whereas others go by the number of devices accessed or concurrent sessions. Most plans are billed annually, often offering first-year discounts. Most remote access providers give seven- to 30-day free trials for your team to test out the software.
For some insight into the going market rates, here are the pricing structures for some of our best picks.
Pricing may differ based on available discounts or pricing adjustments. Be sure to factor in additional taxes or fees vendors may charge. Most of these companies have additional plans for remote support and sometimes for mobile device access as well. The best plans to purchase are easily scalable and include automatic updates.
Key Takeaway Key takeawayPrices vary widely for remote access software, depending on the vendor’s particular pricing model, fees and available discounts.
Depending on how you plan to use your remote access software, whether as an IT support tool or a remote-work solution, some features are more important than others. In general, though, the below features and functions are highly desirable in any remote access software.
The best platforms offer extensive third-party integrations. ConnectWise, shown here, has over a hundred integrations on offer. Source: ConnectWise
When comparing pricing amongst different software, be sure to also compare the features available in each specific plan you’re considering. Many remote access software plans are tiered – lower-cost plans tend to have very basic features.
Ask vendors whether their remote access software integrates with the best CRM platforms and other business software to help streamline operations. For example, Zoho Assist is capable of integrating with Zoho CRM.
Large businesses with a significant number of in-office computers to manage and small businesses supporting hybrid or remote workers can both benefit greatly from remote access software. Here are the biggest advantages.
Follow these general steps to choose the best remote access software for your business.
Many software providers in this sector offer a mix of remote access and IT support solutions since the underlying technology is fairly similar between the two services. For businesses that need both, there is no shortage of options for all-in-one systems. However, many shoppers in this category are strictly looking for remote access platforms and will want to make sure they don’t pay for features they don’t need. Carefully consider what your organization needs to get out of the system so you know exactly what you’re looking for and can find a solution that fits your use case.
Since pricing for this category is largely dictated by the number of users and remote computers, it’s important to take a detailed inventory of the individuals and devices you’ll want to access and support. Most of the vendors we reviewed will let you adjust your plan to a higher number of both items should your business grow. However, many companies only offer annual subscriptions and will not let you downsize in the middle of your contract. To avoid buyer’s remorse, consider not just where your business is today but where it may be in 12-24 months to find the right-sized plan.
COVID-19 forced many organizations to embrace the tools needed for remote work, such as remote access software. If you have now permanently committed to hybrid or fully remote setups, you may feel comfortable signing an annual contract. However, if you’re unsure whether you will continue to have a distributed workforce or expect virtual employees to be back in the office in the relatively near future, you’ll likely want to limit your search to companies that offer monthly subscription options, which are typically priced a bit higher than the annual equivalent.
In other words, while annual agreements can save you money, you may not appreciate being locked into a year-long contract if it’s unclear how, and where, your company will operate going forward. Monthly terms allow more flexibility.
Once you’ve determined your ideal use case, the amount of people and equipment you want to support and your ideal term length, you’re ready to research specific vendors and shop the market. This process should include participating in demos and free trials, reading online customer reviews and speaking with sales representatives. Finding the best deal doesn’t necessarily mean choosing the plan with the lowest monthly or annual fee. Rather, it means finding the best price for the features most valuable to your business.
Once you’ve made a selection and implemented the solution, it’s essential to periodically assess how the product is serving you. As your contract is nearing its end, you may want to reevaluate your needs to ensure the remote access software you’re using is still the best platform for your business.
At Business News Daily, our team of small business technology experts have been researching and testing remote PC software for years, comparing some of the leading solutions across more than 25 key metrics. We considered 22 remote PC software platforms and closely reviewed and tested 15 of them before selecting our five best picks above.
Below are the factors we considered when determining our best picks. Each is weighted according to how much the criteria typically influences business owners’ buying decisions.
In addition to scoring each remote PC software we reviewed based on this criteria, we also determined the best use case scenarios for each. No two businesses are exactly alike, so we put ourselves in the shoes of different types of small business owners and identify the best remote PC software for a variety of needs.
To learn more about how we review and test tech products and services for small businesses, read about our editorial process here.
Remote desktop software, also known as remote access software, is helpful because it has many uses that can benefit your business. For example, your staff can use the software to remotely access their office computers at home or out in the field. This is helpful for efficiency and sometimes necessary for companies that rely heavily on off-site workers.
Another reason remote desktop software is helpful is because it gives IT departments the ability to deploy various protocols across several devices and lets customer service teams assist staff and clients in troubleshooting tech problems. This use can increase your desktop security, team efficiency and customer satisfaction.
The most common uses for remote desktop software are for employees to use it to access their office computers remotely and for tech teams to use it to remotely provide on-demand issue resolution for colleagues and customers. Functions like file transferring, screen-blanking and keyboard-locking are great for remote workers, and monitor grouping, mass deployment and control exchange are useful for tech support teams.
Did you know?: Chatbots can help your small business grow by facilitating more efficient customer service. You’ll find them included in some remote access solutions, like Freshdesk.
Tech support teams and IT departments need remote access software to connect to other users’ devices. Without it, they would not be able to provide remote tech support to their co-workers and customers. So while any team can benefit from remote access software, these kinds of teams heavily rely on it.
Businesses that depend on off-site staff to access on-site devices also need a remote access solution. Instead of physically going to the office to use their devices, out-of-office workers can access their work computers from wherever they are via remote access software. Educators may need remote access for similar reasons, and it can be a valuable tool for teaching remotely and collaborating with students from afar.
TeamViewer, UltraVNC and Microsoft Remote Desktop offer the best free remote access software. However, it’s important to note that while some free remote access software options have useful features, many of them are for personal, non-commercial use. Free remote access platforms often have limited tools and security measures as well.
Although remote PC access software has been available for years, many are maintaining a hybrid or flexible work model in 2024 and beyond. Buffer’s 2023 State of Remote Work report found that 71 percent of employers would allow arrangements for at least partial remote work on an ongoing basis. This shift also accommodates an increasing number of employees seeking flexible working arrangements: The same Buffer study found that 98 percent of respondents would like some remote work for the rest of their careers.
With artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) becoming increasingly commonplace, these technologies can potentially transform remote collaboration in 2024. AI- and VR-powered solutions can help streamline project management, improve team collaboration and foster real-time communication.
As remote desktop access and other work-from-home technologies continue to develop, the market is expected to continue its growth. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global remote desktop market size was $1,753.2 million in 2020. It increased to $2,022.9 million in 2021 and is slated to spike to $5,994.8 million by 2028.
North America is poised to be a dominant force in the market share because of the aforementioned adoption of remote work, as well as the United States and Canada’s big-name software providers. The Asian Pacific region and Europe are also expected to see major growth in this sector.
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