How can I manage my computer remotely?

Remote computer management has become essential for businesses, IT professionals and individuals alike. Whether you need to troubleshoot technical problems, deploy software updates, or provide remote IT support, having the right tools is critical. With so many options available, choosing the best remote computer management software can be daunting.

In this guide, we'll look at some of the top contenders in the field and highlight their key features, as well as their pros and cons, to help you make an informed decision.

Top 7 best remote computer management software

Looking for the best remote software to manage own computers? This guide will bring you the top 7 best remote desktop management software with their respective features as well as advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a look.

Option 1. AnyViewer

AnyViewer distinguishes itself amidst the multitude of remote desktop software available. Tailored to streamline the management of multiple remote work computers, it provides real-time insights into their activities. Moreover, it empowers various users, including businesses and IT professionals, to remotely access and manage devices from any corner of the globe.

In addition to its remote management and screen control capabilities, AnyViewer boasts a plethora of functions such as file transfer, mobile control, screen sharing, text chat and remote shutdown/restart. These diverse features render it an indispensable tool for remote workers seeking efficient management and support.

Features:

• Role Permission Management: AnyViewer offers different permissions for Enterprise sub-accounts to controllable certain devices, view or edit user/device management.
• Screen Wall: AnyViewer introduces the screen wall feature, allowing users to monitor multiple remote screens concurrently, making it perfect for overseeing numerous devices simultaneously.
• Remote Control: With AnyViewer's remote control functionality, users gain the ability to operate another computer from their own, facilitating seamless assistance or collaboration.
• File Transfer: AnyViewer streamlines file transfer between connected devices during remote sessions, enabling swift sharing of documents and updates.
• Seamless Communication: AnyViewer ensures smooth communication during remote sessions, supporting voice or video calls and chat exchanges.
• Privacy Mode: AnyViewer includes a Privacy Mode option to safeguard user privacy during remote control sessions, thereby enhancing security.

Pros:

• User-Friendly Interface: AnyViewer features an intuitive interface, ensuring easy navigation and utilization for all users.
• High Security: Advanced security measures like ECC encryption and two-factor authentication are integrated, offering robust protection for sensitive data.
• Comprehensive Functionality: The software offers a wide range of features, including screen monitoring and mouse & keyboard control, providing users with complete oversight and control of remote devices.
• Stable Connection: AnyViewer ensures fast and stable performance during remote monitoring, facilitating efficient management of remote assets.
• Supports Large-Scale Deployment: Designed for massive deployment, AnyViewer is suitable for organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to large enterprises.
• Mobile Control Support: Mobile apps are available, enabling users to conveniently access and manage remote devices from their smartphones or tablets.
• Affordable Pricing: Varying pricing plans provide flexibility, ensuring that businesses of all sizes and budgets can afford and scale their usage accordingly.

Cons:

• Limited Compatibility: AnyViewer currently supports only Windows, iOS, and Android platforms, potentially limiting access for users on other operating systems.

Who it’s for?

AnyViewer offers a straightforward setup and operation process, making it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise. However, its primary utility lies in catering to middle and high school teachers who require advanced classroom management capabilities across different operating systems. The screen wall feature, in particular, is immensely valuable for effectively monitoring and managing multiple screens simultaneously.

Option 2. TeamViewer

TeamViewer is a versatile remote computer management software that empowers users to access and control computers from any location worldwide. Whether you're seeking technical support, collaborating on a project, or managing devices remotely, TeamViewer offers a seamless solution. With its user-friendly interface and robust features, TeamViewer empowers individuals and businesses to troubleshoot issues, transfer files, conduct meetings, and provide remote assistance with ease.

Features:

• Cross-platform compatibility: TeamViewer supports various operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, ensuring seamless remote access across different devices.
• Secure remote access: With end-to-end encryption, TeamViewer offers a secure connection, safeguarding sensitive data during remote sessions.
• Multi-factor authentication: Enhance security with multi-factor authentication options, adding an extra layer of protection to your remote access sessions.
• File transfer and more: TeamViewer facilitates file transfer between connected devices and offers additional functionalities like remote printing and session recording.
• Intuitive user interface: TeamViewer boasts an easy setup process and an intuitive interface, making it accessible even for users with minimal technical expertise.

Pros:

• Easy access: TeamViewer's intuitive interface ensures that users can effortlessly navigate the software, regardless of their technical expertise.
• Works with or without an account: Whether users prefer to create an account for added features or use the software anonymously, TeamViewer offers flexibility to suit their preferences.
• Seamless file transfers: With TeamViewer, transferring files between devices is a breeze, enabling efficient collaboration and sharing of resources.
• Completely free for non-commercial use: TeamViewer provides access to its full range of features at no cost for non-commercial purposes, making it an accessible option for individuals and organizations alike.

Cons:

• Expensive for business use: TeamViewer's pricing plans may pose a challenge for businesses, especially those with larger budgets or specific needs requiring additional features.
• No self-service way to unsubscribe: TeamViewer lacks a self-service option for users to easily unsubscribe or modify their subscription plans, potentially leading to frustration or inconvenience when attempting to manage their accounts.

Who it’s for?

If you find yourself in the role of the informal IT person for your family, requiring access to their devices, TeamViewer is the solution you need. The same applies if you seek occasional remote access to your home server. TeamViewer also serves as an excellent tool for professional purposes, particularly within larger organizations. However, small businesses may want to explore more affordable alternatives before committing to TeamViewer.

Option 3. Splashtop

Splashtop is a leading remote computer management software designed to simplify and enhance remote access and control. Whether you're a business professional, IT technician, or individual user, Splashtop offers a comprehensive suite of features to streamline remote desktop management. With its secure and high-performance platform, Splashtop enables users to remotely access computers, transfer files, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate with colleagues from anywhere in the world.

Features:

• Smooth remote access: Splashtop Business offers smooth remote access with high-definition streaming and audio support, ensuring a seamless user experience.
• Compatibility: It works across various platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Chrome OS, allowing access from different devices.
• Printing and annotation: Users can print documents remotely and annotate files in real time, facilitating collaboration during remote sessions.
• Strong security: Splashtop Business ensures data security with TLS encryption and 256-bit AES encryption, keeping sensitive information safe during transfers.
• Centralized management: With a centralized management console, IT administrators can easily deploy and monitor remote access, simplifying device management.

Pros:

• Impressive performance: Splashtop delivers remarkable performance, ensuring smooth and efficient remote control operations.
• Click-and-drag file transfer, even across platforms: With Splashtop, users can seamlessly transfer files by simply clicking and dragging them, even between different operating systems, enhancing productivity and ease of use.
• Enthusiastic customer service: Splashtop is backed by enthusiastic customer service, providing timely assistance and support to users, ensuring a positive experience with the software.

Cons:

• Whiteboard functionality limited to mobile: Splashtop's whiteboard feature is only available on mobile devices, potentially limiting its usability for users who primarily work on desktop platforms.
• Complicated pricing structure: Splashtop's pricing plans may be perceived as complex or confusing, making it challenging for users to determine the most suitable option for their needs.

Who it’s for?

Splashtop is designed with businesses in focus, making it an ideal choice for companies seeking reliable remote access solutions. Businesses, particularly those that prioritize excellent customer service, should strongly consider adopting Splashtop. With its competitive pricing, reliability, and seamless performance, Splashtop meets the needs of medium and large enterprises, offering features and functionality valued by such organizations.

Option 4. Zoho Assist

Zoho Assist stands out as a premier remote computer management software, offering a comprehensive suite of tools to streamline remote access and support tasks. Whether you're an IT professional, a support technician, or a business owner, Zoho Assist provides a seamless platform for remotely accessing and managing computers from anywhere in the world.

Features:

• Smooth remote access: Zoho Assist ensures smooth screen sharing and clear audio for effective communication during remote sessions.
• Compatibility: Works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, enabling access from different devices.
• File transfer and chat: Easily transfer files and chat in real time for efficient collaboration during remote sessions.
• Secure connections: Zoho Assist uses end-to-end encryption to keep data safe during transfers.
• Customizable interface: Businesses can personalize the interface to match their brand identity for a professional touch during support sessions.

Pros:

• Affordable remote access: Zoho Assist offers cost-effective remote access solutions, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.
• Generous free version: Zoho Assist provides a generous free version with essential features, allowing users to experience its capabilities before committing to a paid plan.
• Can control mobile devices: With Zoho Assist, users have the ability to control mobile devices remotely, enhancing flexibility and productivity.
• Integrations with Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Google Contacts: Zoho Assist seamlessly integrates with popular communication and productivity tools such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Google Contacts, enabling smooth workflow integration and collaboration.

Cons:

• Stuttering performance compared to other apps: Zoho Assist may experience stuttering performance when compared to other similar applications, potentially impacting user experience.
• Can't hear remote audio: One limitation of Zoho Assist is the inability to hear remote audio, which may hinder certain use cases that require audio playback.
• Cluttered user interface that's occasionally hard to browse: Zoho Assist's user interface can be cluttered and difficult to navigate at times, leading to challenges in finding and accessing desired features.

Who It's For?

Zoho Assist is tailored for technical support teams, catering specifically to their needs and requirements. Consequently, it is predominantly utilized by these teams for remote assistance and troubleshooting purposes. Additionally, savvy Android users should explore Zoho Assist for its mobile support capabilities, which can enhance their remote access experience on Android devices.

Option 5. RemotePC

RemotePC is a cutting-edge remote computer management software that empowers users to access and control their computers from anywhere, at any time. Whether you're a business professional, an IT administrator, or an individual user, RemotePC offers a comprehensive suite of features to streamline remote access and management tasks.

Features:

• Seamless remote access: RemotePC enables seamless remote access to PCs and Macs from any device, allowing you to work or troubleshoot from anywhere.
• File transfer and collaboration: Transfer files effortlessly between connected devices and collaborate with colleagues using RemotePC's built-in tools.
• Remote printing and recording: Print documents remotely and record sessions for future reference or auditing purposes with RemotePC's advanced features.
• AES-256 encryption: RemotePC employs AES-256 encryption and TLS protocols to secure remote connections, safeguarding sensitive data from unauthorized access.
• Easy deployment and management: RemotePC offers easy deployment options and a centralized management console for businesses, simplifying IT administration tasks.

Pros:

• Affordable: RemotePC offers cost-effective pricing plans, making it accessible to businesses of various sizes and budgets.
• Excellent performance while accessing Windows PCs: Users can expect exceptional performance when accessing Windows PCs remotely through RemotePC, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
• Works in the browser, in a pinch: RemotePC provides the convenience of browser-based access, allowing users to connect and troubleshoot remotely even when access to dedicated software is unavailable.

Cons:

• Lack of free version: RemotePC does not offer a free version, potentially limiting access for users who prefer to evaluate the software before committing to a paid plan.
• Absence of built-in audio or video chat: One drawback of RemotePC is the lack of built-in audio or video chat functionality, which may hinder real-time communication and collaboration during remote assistance sessions.

Who It's For?

RemotePC is well-suited for small businesses, especially those seeking cost-effective remote access solutions for a limited number of computers. It caters to businesses that prioritize budget-friendly options without compromising on functionality. RemotePC offers a competitive pricing structure that is significantly lower than other applications while delivering comparable performance and features.

Option 6. VNC Connect

VNC Connect is a powerful remote computer management software that enables users to access and control their computers from anywhere in the world. Whether you're a business professional, an IT administrator, or an individual user, VNC Connect offers a flexible and secure solution for remote access and management tasks.

Features:

• Smooth remote access: VNC Connect offers seamless screen sharing and responsive controls for efficient remote sessions.
• Compatibility: Works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, allowing access from various devices.
• File transfer and clipboard sharing: Easily transfer files and share clipboard contents for convenient collaboration.
• Strong security: Ensures encryption of all transferred data, keeping sensitive information safe during remote access.
• Easy deployment: Simplified setup and centralized management make deployment and administration hassle-free for IT professionals.

Pros:

• Free version available for home use: VNC Connect offers a free version specifically designed for non-commercial use, providing basic remote access functionality at no cost.
• Quick and reliable connections: Users can count on VNC Connect to establish fast and dependable connections, ensuring efficient remote access to target devices.
• Mobile support for remote viewing: VNC Connect provides mobile support, allowing users to remotely view and access devices from their smartphones or tablets, enhancing flexibility and convenience.

Cons:

• Low frame rate compared to other apps: VNC Connect may exhibit a lower frame rate compared to other similar applications, potentially impacting the fluidity of remote access sessions.
• Confusing setup process: Setting up VNC Connect may be confusing for some users, leading to difficulties in configuring the software for optimal performance.
• Lack of built-in audio chat, video chat, or whiteboard: One limitation of VNC Connect is the absence of built-in audio chat, video chat, or whiteboard functionality, which may hinder real-time communication and collaboration during remote access sessions.

Who It's For?

VNC Connect is best suited for small businesses with a limited number of devices to connect. The pricing structure, which is based on a per-device model, can be economically advantageous for businesses that only need to connect to one or two devices. This makes VNC Connect an ideal choice for small businesses seeking cost-effective remote access solutions without the need for extensive device connections.

Option 7. Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop is a convenient and user-friendly remote computer management software developed by Google. This innovative tool allows users to access and control their computers remotely from any device with the Chrome browser installed. Whether you're a business professional, an IT specialist, or an individual user, Chrome Remote Desktop offers a seamless solution for remote access and management tasks.

Features:

• Free remote access solution: Chrome Remote Desktop is a free solution for Chrome browser users, providing remote access capabilities without additional costs.
• Cross-platform support: Chrome Remote Desktop is compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS, offering flexibility and accessibility across different platforms.
• Easy setup and installation: Chrome Remote Desktop can be easily set up and installed via the Chrome Web Store, making it accessible to users with minimal technical knowledge.
• Secure connections: Chrome Remote Desktop uses Google Account credentials and PIN authentication to establish secure connections, protecting user data during remote sessions.
• Simple interface: Chrome Remote Desktop features a simple interface with basic remote control and file access features, making it user-friendly and accessible for users of all levels.

Pros:

• Browser-based access: Chrome Remote Desktop offers the convenience of browser-based access, allowing users to connect and troubleshoot remotely without the need for dedicated software installation.
• Cross-platform compatibility: Chrome Remote Desktop is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS, providing flexibility and accessibility across different platforms.
• Free to use: Chrome Remote Desktop is available for free, making it an affordable option for individuals and businesses seeking remote access solutions without additional costs.

Cons:

• Limited features: Chrome Remote Desktop lacks advanced features found in some other remote desktop software, potentially limiting functionality for users with more specific requirements.
• Dependence on Chrome browser: Since Chrome Remote Desktop relies on the Chrome browser, users may experience limitations if they prefer to use alternative browsers or if Chrome is not available on their devices.
• Security concerns: While Chrome Remote Desktop implements encryption protocols for secure connections, some users may have concerns about data privacy and security when using cloud-based remote access solutions.

Who It's For?

Chrome Remote Desktop is perfect for individuals and businesses seeking a free and easy-to-use remote desktop solution. It's great for those who prefer browser-based access and need compatibility across different operating systems. Overall, it's a convenient and cost-effective option for anyone needing remote access.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing the best remote computer management software is crucial for businesses and individuals alike. With various options available, it's important to weigh the features, pros, and cons of each. Whether you prefer AnyViewer's user-friendly interface, TeamViewer's versatility, or Splashtop's performance, there's a solution for everyone. Ultimately, the right software enhances productivity, ensures security, and streamlines remote tasks. So, take your time, explore your options, and find the perfect fit for your needs. With the best software, you'll work smoother and more efficiently, no matter where you are.