For IT teams and network admins who need to resolve technical issues, getting to the root of the problem without getting in the way of other peoples’ work can be difficult. You need to figure things out before they cause issues across your network, but you can’t bring everything to a halt to do it.
To help, I’d recommend using a remote desktop software. With free, freemium, and commercial options on the market, you can remotely access another computer from your own—or even from a mobile device. This allows you to help end users experiencing issues or to work in the background while they go about their business. Plus, a tool like this can help you remotely manage your computer, storage, and network resources throughout your company—even if you have branch offices around the state, country, or globe.
Free and freemium options can be great depending on your needs—and my list goes into detail about them--but if you’re looking for truly cost-effective, premium options, I’d recommend SolarWinds® Dameware® Remote Support for an on-premises remote desktop solution and the JUST RELEASED Dameware Remote Everywhere for cloud-based solutions. As a proven leader in the remote support industry, SolarWinds is the one to beat.
Mar 11, 2020 There you are, the top remote desktop connection software for Mac computers. We have TeamViewer, LogMeIn, Screens, NoMachine, Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager, Jump Desktop, and, of course, Microsoft Remote Desktop For Mac. If you are looking for free software that allows you to connect to other devices, we’d definitely recommend TeamViewer.
Aug 31, 2017 Remote PC is a simple-to-use remote access software that allows only one connection. If you want only this then it’s fine for you. On the Host side, you just have to download and install the software as per the instructions. It is supporting both Windows and Mac computers.
The rise and fall of Back to My Mac. For some Mac users, remote access software became a category to consider when Apple removed Back to My Mac from macOS Mojave, and it was completely turned off.
Apr 30, 2020 Apple Remote Desktop is the best way to manage the Mac computers on your network. Distribute software, provide real-time online help to end-users, create detailed software and hardware reports, and automate routine management tasks — all from your own Mac.
Nov 17, 2019 Chrome Remote Desktop Chrome Remote Desktop is one of the more basic offerings out there for free remote desktop connections, but it gets the job done pretty conveniently. The only requirement is that both computers—that is, yours (the client) and the computer you’re remotely logging into (the host)—have Chrome installed.
For users who are unforgiving of LogMeIn, TeamViewer offers a comparable remote connectivity solution. In addition to remote connectivity, the program supports remote printing.
Whether you’re resolving IT issues on-site, in different buildings on-premises, or at branch offices, remote desktop software can speed up the process without bringing workflows to a halt. Here’s my pick for the best free remote desktop software of 2020.
Feel free to jump ahead to reviews:
Top Free Remote Desktop Software for 2020
New year, new offerings. Whether you’re looking at free, freemium, or commercial remote desktop software, you have a lot of options at your disposal. However, I’m just going to focus on free platforms right now, so you can understand what the most entry-level options on the market look like. Like I’ve already said, these tools can give you a lot of the essentials when it comes to remote access, but they’re not going to give you absolutely everything.
Regardless, free remote desktop software can help you dip your toe into the water. This can be useful if you’re not exactly sure what your needs are or if you’d like to get familiar with some options before deciding in which commercial software you want to invest. On the other hand, these free remote desktop tools might give you everything you need, in which case the following options will be just fine. In no particular order, here’s what to consider in 2020:
Chrome Remote Desktop is one of the more basic offerings out there for free remote desktop connections, but it gets the job done pretty conveniently. The only requirement is that both computers—that is, yours (the client) and the computer you’re remotely logging into (the host)—have Chrome installed.
This option works via an extension you install. You’ll give yourself access to the host by creating a unique PIN and you can take control of the host by logging into Chrome on the client side. As a plus, you can access the host even if Chrome isn’t running or if they’re not logged into their account. However, the functions are a bit limited. There are no chat options available in case you need to communicate quickly with someone on the other end and the platform doesn’t support file sharing at the moment, so I’d definitely call it an entry-level choice.
Microsoft Remote Desktop is similar to Chrome’s. It offers basic features that are convenient if you’re a certain kind of user, but it comes with a spate of limitations that might not make it the best option for everyone. With the platform—which Microsoft provides for free—you can remotely access Windows PCs from other Windows computers, mobile, devices, and Macs.
However, you should note that you can’t access a Mac from a Windows PC. With Microsoft Remote Desktop, you’ll be able to work with any version of Windows starting with Windows 7 provided they’re running Enterprise, Ultimate, or Professional. It doesn’t require authorization to connect to your own PCs, which is a plus, but it also doesn’t support file sharing or offer a wealth of options when it comes to IT assistance.
Compared with Chrome Remote Desktop and Microsoft Remote Desktop, RemotePC gives you some additional features. For example, it supports file-sharing and chat functionalities—both important things if you’re trying to work with someone remotely to solve a problem. You can also use mobile devices to access a computer, so you’re not tethered to a desktop or laptop host.
On the flip side, the biggest limitation is that you’re only able to store information for one connection at a time, unless you take advantage of their freemium options. This means that you can only have an access ID and key paired for one type of connection. You could conceivably access as many hosts as you need, but you won’t be able to store that information to toggle through.
UltraVNC works by installing a server and a viewer on two different PCs. You’ll install the server on the computer you want to connect to, and the viewer on the computer you’re going to use as your controller. By installing the server as a system service, it’ll always be running and you can make connections more easily.
As far as potential snags, you’ll need to change your router settings while using UltraVNC—specifically for port forwarding. Aside from that, the platform supports file sharing and transfers, chatting between the server and the viewer, and clipboard sharing. Fair warning, the download page isn’t as elegant as some of these other options.
Remote Utilities gives you a competitive array of tools considering that it’s free. After pairing two computers with an Internet ID, you’ll be able to remotely access up to ten PCs. The service provides a number of tools to help with the pairing process, including a Viewer for the computer you want to use as your controller, a Host on remote computers for unattended access, a run-only Agent for spontaneous access, and an RU Server to route remote connections and access additional capabilities.
Available for personal and enterprise use, Remote Utilities has a lot of effective remote access capabilities. Mac os meeting notes apps. For example, available modules include a task manager, file transfer, power control, and text chat, just to name a few. However, the primary limitation—aside from the limit of 10 connections—is that Remote Utilities only works on Windows.
Why Remote Desktop Software?
Whatever industry you’re in, IT teams face a difficult task: how can you resolve issues with computers, storage, and networking resources without getting in the way of other important work your enterprise does? Whether you’re resolving an issue with one end user’s computer or investigating a problem affecting the organization as a whole, there’s a lot of pressure to get in, fix the problem, and get out as soon as possible.
On one hand, I can see where people are coming from. Research shows that 54% of companies experienced a downtime event lasting more than an entire workday—that’s about eight hours—in the past five years. When you consider that longer incidents can cost companies tens of thousands of dollars, if not hundreds of thousands, you can understand why it’s critical that IT professionals get to the root of whatever’s going wrong and figure things out.
On the other hand, I think it’s important to point out the barrier’s IT teams face. For instance, if an end user is having a problem that calls for your attention, you want to help them get back up to speed without putting them and their workstation out of commission for hours on end. Additionally, if someone in a branch office or a different building on your corporate campus needs assistance, it’s probably time-consuming—if not impossible—to physically be with them at their computer.
This puts IT professionals in a bind. You need to fix problems before they cause big losses for your company, but you also need to do so in a way that’s almost like you’re not even there. So how can you make this happen? Well, you probably need remote desktop software. This software can help you take over computers that have already given you permission to do so, and that includes everything: mouse, keyboard, and all.
If you’re looking for a free remote desktop software to fit these needs, you want to find the solution that works best for your team and your budget. While it’s up to you whether you go for free, freemium, or commercial products, take the time to learn more about what’s out there. To that end, I’m sharing some of my favorite free remote desktop software options with you below.
If Free Remote Support Tools Don’t Cut It
Free remote desktop software can give you some of the primary capabilities IT teams need. From portability options to chatting platforms, you can access a lot of the tools that make remote desktop software so useful in the first place. You’ll be able to take control of another computer—often whether or not somebody’s on the other end—and get to the root of the problem without disturbing their work or having to waste time actually walking to their workstation.
Remote Desktop Connection Software For Mac Computer
However, you’re going to run into some limitations depending on which software you use. For instance, a lot of free remote desktop software only allows you access to a certain number of computers at any one time. This may be all you need if you’re on a smaller team, but it’s obviously a hassle for bigger operations—and potentially a deal-breaker. Even if you fall somewhere in the middle, you’re not going to want to have multiple kinds of remote desktop access software just so you can cover all your computers without having to pay.
When I think of remote desktop software that’s easy to install, intuitive to use, and backed up by other positive customer reviews, I have to go with SolarWinds Dameware Remote Support and Dameware Remote Everywhere. Available for on-premises and cloud-based teams, Dameware Remote Support and Dameware Remote Everywhere provide really effective tools that I depend on. It’s secure, functional 24/7, and comes with support. If I need to start a mobile session over a device, centrally manage my Dameware environment, or organize work tickets easily, these SolarWinds offerings would be the perfect fit. What’s great is that you can try out either one of these remote support solutions risk-free for 14 days to see if it meets your support needs.
Other Helpful Free Tools Lists
If your network is down or experiencing real issues, it’s hard for the rest of your organization to do what needs to get done. Whether you’ve already figured out your network architecture or you want to get it up and running in tandem with network monitoring tools, make sure that you do your research and get the options that will work best for your team.
If you and your team regularly build your own applications, safeguarding your server environment is critical. After all, those applications are probably essential, whether they’re for people inside your organization or for clients outside of it. To that end, you need server monitoring tools that can get the job done—regardless of whether you want free, freemium, or commercial options.
Related Posts
HomeTutorialsHow To Do Remote Desktop Connection for Mac?
(Last Updated On: June 11, 2020)
Use Microsoft remote desktop for mac to connect to remote PCs or virtual apps and desktops available through your admin.
The remote desktop connection is a type of technology, which allows a computer to connect and control another PC.
The other PC has to be in a remote location, and the first computer can control it with the help of the internet, or a network and Remote Desktop Connection for Mac.
Remote Desktop Connection for Mac piece of technology was introduced by Microsoft.
Controlling a remote desktop connection is possible with the help of a terminal service, called Remote Desktop Service. Remote Desktop Connection for Mac service uses the Remote Desktop Protocol, to access the other computer.
Contents
1 How To Do Remote Desktop Connection for Mac?
How To Do Remote Desktop Connection for Mac?
The following are the steps that users should take, when they want to access their Mac, remotely.
Download from Here: Microsoft Remote Desktop
Step #1
Firstly, the user should open an application, that is already installed on their desktop. The application is called ‘Microsoft Remote Desktop’.
Users want to access the desktop through Remote Desktop Connection for Mac feature, which is why they should click on the Desktop.
Step #3
There is an option of Show More, where the user will be able to enter the details of the PC, they want to connect with Mac
Step #4
The user should know the name of the other PC. When they click on ‘show more’, they should type the name of the remote computer.
Mostly, students try to access a desktop through their Mac, or the other way around. If they have left some unfinished work on their library computer, then they can easily access it.
For the name of the computer, they should ask the IS Technology Support Center or the IT person in the library.
Step #5
If a student is trying to access a remote desktop connection, then they have to type their user name and password. If they change their password, then they have to update the remote desktop settings as well.
Step #6
Users should click on save, enter the name of the PC, and then choose ‘no gateway’.
Step #7
They can choose a gateway, which they will find in the drop-down menu. After entering the name of the server, and then save the connection.
Remote Desktop Connection for Mac method is specifically for university students. However, there is another method that users can use if they want to access Mac remotely.
The first thing that users have to do, is accessing the Microsoft Remote Desktop connection tool. Users can easily download it from the Mac App Store.
Remote Desktop Connection for Mac tool is specifically helpful because it allows users to connect to a desktop so that they can easily access their files, applications, and resources.
Remote Desktop Connection for Mac is a free app, which means that the user only has to download it, and then begin to set it up for remote desktop connection.
Remote Desktop Connection Options
Next, the users have to launch the application, by clicking on the Launchpad icon; it is grey and pretty accessible. Users can also use a shortcut for this purpose; command+spacebar. The app has six options on the top of the bar:
New
Start
Edit
Preferences
Remote Resources
Azure RemoteApp
If users have to access Remote Desktop Connection for Mac app frequently, then they should choose the option of keeping the app in the dock. This way, they will be able to see it on Mac’s desktop, and won’t have to search for it, over and over.
The user has to enable remote access on the PC they are targeting. If it is Windows 8, then the fastest way is to search for the ‘remote access to the computer’ option.
Further, the user has to select the other users who will be able to access the remote desktop. For the target PC, the user should turn off the options for hibernation and sleep.
If the target PC sleeps or hibernates, then the target PC won’t be accessible through a remote location.
In the General section, the user should set up a connection name, PC name, gateway, credentials like user name and password, resolution, colors, and full-screen mode.
If users want to configure peripheral devices, then they can do so, using the ‘Session’ option in the application.
They can set up the sound, or the best practice would be to disable it. Users can also connect their Mac with an administrator session.
Remote Desktop Connection for Mac application can also help users gain access to their local printers if they select the ‘forward printing devices’. They can choose the ‘swap mouse buttons’ if they want to choose to left-click commands.
Read more: (Tips & Guide) How QR Codes Are Generated
There is an option for ‘redirection’ in the application, which lets the user choose the folders they want access to. By clicking the ‘+’ button, they can decide which folders they want to choose.
When they are done setting up the configuration settings for their remote desktop, they need to click on the red close button. The button is located at the top left corner, of the dialog box.
Last step of Remote Desktop Connection for Mac
Remote Desktop Connection for Mac is the last step of setting up a remote desktop.
Those who can’t take all their information along with them, because it is heavy or not possible for them, would find Remote Desktop Connection for Mac option very helpful. They can access their files and applications, through their Mac, while they are in a remote location.
However, it is important to make sure that the target computer and Mac are both functioning properly. They have to properly charge, should not be in hibernation or sleep mode, or users won’t be able to access their files at all.
If the targeted computer stops working in between, then the user won’t be able to access his files, even if he has set up the computer by following the right steps.
Remote Desktop Connection for Mac application gives people a convenient way to stay connected with their work, wherever they go.
For example, if due to some reasons they have not been able to go to the office, then they can simply ask someone to connect their office desktop, with Mac.
They will be able to catch up to work, and their time won’t be wasted. Connecting a desktop to a remote connection or a Mac with a remote connection is the best technology that there is.
Users should make use of Remote Desktop Connection for Mac technology, by fully understanding it.
Does Remote Desktop Work on Mac?
For Mac users, the Stalwart tool has been the Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection.
Now available through the Mac App Store, it allows users to connect remotely from the Windows desktop to access local files, applications, and network resources.
How can I use Remote Management on Mac?
Use Remote Management in Sharing Preferences to allow others to access your computer using the Apple Remote Desktop.
On your Mac, select Apple Menu > System Preferences, click Sharing, then select the Remote Management checkbox.
If prompted, select tasks that allow remote users to perform.
Does the Mac have a remote desktop?
For Mac users, the Stalwart tool has been the Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection.
Now available through the Mac App Store, it allows users to connect remotely from the Windows desktop to access local files, applications, and network resources.
How can I tell if someone is accessing my Mac remotely?
Go to System Preferences. Find the sharing folder and double click. Click the Remote Management checkbox on the left.
Allow access to either all users or specific users only.
Can you control your Mac from your iPhone?
With the Mac for Remote Control, you can control your Media Center from your iOS device using the trackpad and keyboard available in the Input section.
Tap on the input icon to bring up the remote keyboard, which allows you to easily add symbols from your iOS device and use arrows and shortcuts (such as command key).
Can you use RDP on Mac?
For Mac users, the Stalwart tool has been the Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection.
Now available through the Mac App Store, it allows users to connect remotely from the Windows desktop to access local files, applications, and network resources.