By Ellie / Last Updated December 22, 2023

Can you share screens on Remote Desktop?

 

I've been using Windows Remote Desktop for a while, and I'm wondering if it supports screen sharing. I want to be able to share my screen with someone else or view theirs during a remote session.”

- Question from Reddit

RDC Slow

Windows Remote Desktop is a feature that allows you to connect to and control a Windows-based computer from another device over a network connection. However, by default, the Windows Remote Desktop doesn't directly support screen sharing in the way that some other applications do. Instead, it allows you to control the remote desktop session.

If you want to achieve screen sharing-like functionality on a Windows system, you can use third-party software or additional features.

Top 3 substitutes for Windows Remote Desktop share screen

Here are three substitutes for Windows Remote Desktop share screen on Windows 10 and 11, and you can choose the one that suits your preferences. Follow along to understand how to operate them.

Option 1. AnyViewer: Share screen without any limitations [Recommended]

Opt for the first choice, AnyViewer, a free & professional remote desktop software for screen sharing. Experience fast and responsive connections with ease of operation, and enjoy an unrestricted connection beyond the confines of the same LAN.

AnyViewer extends beyond traditional screen sharing; it encompasses features such as unattended remote access, file transfer, mobile control, and mirroring. Simply click the blue button to install AnyViewer on both PCs and initiate the Windows 10 remote desktop share screen.

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Step 1. For the computer wants to share its screen, sign up and fill in the information to create an AnyViewer account.

Log in AnyViewer

Step 2. Once logged in, the PC will be assigned to the account automatically.

Step 3. Log in to the same AnyViewer account on the computer viewing the remote screen.

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Step 4. Go to the Device tap and choose the computer that wants to share its screen, and click View screen. Now, you can view its screen remotely without permission. Repeat the same steps you can share multiple screens concurrently.

View the Screen

★Important tips: 
✍ For those looking to simultaneously view multiple screens, it is advisable to consider upgrading to a Professional or Enterprise plan.

 

Option 2. Zoom: Share screen during a meeting

Zoom is a video conferencing tool that lets you share your computer screen with others during meetings. It's great for showing presentations, collaborating on documents, or getting tech help remotely. With an easy-to-use interface, Zoom's screen-sharing feature helps make online communication and teamwork straightforward.

Step 1. Open Zoom on both of your devices and log in using your account credentials.

Step 2. On the main page of the host computer, select "Share screen."

zoom share screen

Step 3. Enter the sharing key or meeting ID in the provided pop-up window and click "Share" to initiate screen sharing.

zoom enter sharing key

Step 4. Your screen is now shared with all the members participating in the meeting.

Option 3. Quick Assist: Share screen with a built-in feature on Windows 10 & 11

Quick Assist is also a Windows built-in feature that enables a person to share their device with another person over a remote connection. It allows someone to remotely connect to a user’s device and then view its display. Therefore, we can use Quick Assist to get Windows Remote Desktop screen sharing.

✎Important: Quick Assist is only available on Windows 10 and 11. Please check your computer's operating system version to ensure compatibility.

Step 1. On the computer that wants to view others' screen, search “Quick Assist” in the search box and open it. Choose “Assist another person”.

assist-another-person

Step 2. Enter your Microsoft account, and click on “Next”. And then input the password and click on "Sign in". Then a security code will appear and send it to the computer that wants to share its screen.

share-security-code

Step 3. On the computer that wants to share its screen, locate “Get assistance”, enter the security code of the other computer, and click "Share Screen".

code-from-assistant

Step 4. On the computer viewing the screen, Choose "View Screen", and then click "Continue".

View Screen

Step 5. On the computer sharing the screen, click on "Allow". Done!

share-your-screen

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Windows Remote Desktop share screen is not supported, several alternatives provide effective solutions. AnyViewer, a versatile remote desktop software, stands out for its seamless screen-sharing experience. Alternatively, tools like Zoom and Quick Assist offer user-friendly interfaces for sharing screens during meetings or through built-in features on Windows 10 and 11. Choose the option that aligns with your preferences and enjoy enhanced remote collaboration.