Greatest distant entry software program

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Have you ever been to your office and found that the files you need are on your home computer? You might be working remotely or meeting a client, but you need to access an app from your office PC.

The remote access software allows you to view or access another computer from anywhere in the world.

This functionality is extremely versatile. You can use it to log into a customer's computer and help them answer technical questions. Or you can share your screen with colleagues while you run a demo on your device. You can also transfer files between two computers without using email or file sharing software – even from unattended devices.

It is a common misconception that remote access software is only intended for help desks. However, these tools can be used by anyone.

Which remote access software is the best? After researching and testing dozens of options, I've narrowed my list to five that I can recommend with confidence.

The top 5 options for remote access software

  1. Parallel access
  2. Teamviewer
  3. Remote utilities
  4. Zoho Assist
  5. LogMeIn Pro

How to choose the best remote access software for you

Finding the right remote access software can be difficult if you don't know what to look for. However, there are certain features and considerations that need to be evaluated when comparing different options.

I'll explain these factors in more detail below so that you can make an informed purchase decision.

Compatible devices

The first thing you need to do is figure out what types of devices and operating systems you will be using. All the best remote access tools should be accessible across platforms.

Examples are Mac, Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, iOS, BlackBerry, Raspberry Pi, Windows Mobile, etc.

However, if you are only using the remote access software for personal use or for a small team, you may not need a tool that is compatible with every device under the sun – just the device you are using. However, when you need remote access software to support customers or thousands of employees, you want more versatility.

safety

With remote access, security will always be a primary concern. Is it really that easy for third parties to simply access your devices? What kind of sensitive information do they have access to?

Software providers understand this problem. For this reason, security features like 256-bit encryption, one-time access codes, two-factor authentication, etc. are added. Always make sure that the RAS software you are evaluating meets all industry-specific security requirements, e.g. B. HIPAA for healthcare.

Number of devices

Not all remote access software is built to scale. If you're deploying it with a team of five, you're probably not using the same software as an SMB that needs the software to access 500 or 5,000 devices.

All plans are subject to device quantity restrictions.

You may come across certain tools with unrestricted user access. However, unlimited users and unlimited devices are two different things. So be prepared to purchase additional licenses if you have a larger team and need the software on many devices.

Functionality

The term “remote access” is pretty broad. There are many potential functions and use cases for the software within this category.

Features to look out for include third party integrations, remote printing, multiple monitor access, file sharing, live chat, screen recording, unattended access, etc.

You don't necessarily need all of these features. It's all about how you want to use the software for your personal and business needs. There's no reason to pay extra for plans with large feature lists that you'll never use.

support

In general, the remote access software should be relatively easy to deploy. However, certain solutions are a little more complicated, especially on a scale.

If you need assistance with the setup process, the software provider should be there to make sure everything is running smoothly for you. When something goes wrong or you have questions, you don't want to be left on an island to find out for yourself.

For those of you who have a dedicated IT team, you should be able to manage everything without any hassle. However, since not every company has these in-house resources, support from the software vendor should be a top priority.

The different types of remote access software

Not every RAS solution is the same. This software can be broken down into a handful of different categories. However, some software products offer a combination of these types in a single solution.

On-demand access

On-demand tools require authorization to gain access. Suppose an IT agent wanted to help a remote worker with a problem on their computer. This employee must give the IT team access so they can see the on-screen display and take action.

In short, two people must be present (one on each device) for the on-demand access software to work.

Unattended access

Unattended remote access software is the opposite of on-demand. With this solution, you can access devices even when nobody is on the other computer.

In most cases, users use unattended access software for their personal devices. For example, you can be in the office and access a presentation, file, or application on your home computer.

However, a prospect or customer would not give you unattended access to their personal devices. You have to get permission every time (on-demand access).

Cloud-based remote access software

A cloud-based RAS solution does not have to be installed locally on the device. This is also known as browser-based remote access software.

Suppose you are trying to access a client's device to help them troubleshoot a software problem. Or, you want a prospect to view your screen while you run a demo. These users should not be forced to install anything locally. Access to the device can be granted via a web-based link.

Installation-based RAS software

As the name suggests, an installation-based RAS solution must be installed locally on a device in order for it to work.

All unattended access software must be installed on at least one device. Otherwise, you will have no way of gaining access as a person is not there to give permission.

Help desk software

Help desk software is in its own category. It's worth noting that not every help desk solution has remote access capabilities. Often times, help desk software is used for things like ticket support and customer service.

However, some help desk tools offer remote access functionality. This feature deserves special mention in the IT help desk software, which was developed for internal support.

# 1 – Parallels Access Review – Best for Remote Desktop Access

Parallels Access is a fast, easy, and reliable way to access your computer from anywhere. This is one of the best ways to get all of your files and applications no matter where you are in the world.

With just a few clicks, you can connect to your desktop from any mobile device or web browser.

Parallels Access is feature rich and extremely versatile. Let's take a closer look at why this software is so high on my list:

  • Access your computer from any web browser without the need for additional hardware
  • Use full screen applications
  • Get full access through PC applications as if they were installed locally
  • The software is completely optimized for screen resolution and optimal readability
  • Access files on remote computers or files stored in the cloud
  • Manage files by sorting, copying, renaming, deleting, etc.
  • Ability to share files with friends and colleagues
  • Copy and paste text and edit files remotely

If you want to install Parallels Access on your computers, I highly recommend purchasing the mobile app for your smartphone or tablet. Then your computer can essentially be in your pocket at all times.

Don't have your smartphone with you? No problem. Simply log in securely to your Parallels Access account from any browser for the same access.

Single-user plans for up to five computers start at $ 19.99 per year. Unlimited user business plans start at $ 49 per year.

# 2 – TeamViewer Review – The Best for MacOS and iOS

More than 2 billion devices are connected to TeamViewer, making it one of the most popular remote access solutions in the world. This software has quickly become a top choice for remote working.

TeamViewer offers a wide range of solutions. In addition to remote access, they provide tools for remote assistance, mobile device assistance, remote Internet of Things assistance, remote monitoring and patch management, global video conferencing, and much more.

Years ago, PCs were the device of choice for business use. When it came to supporting Macs and iOS devices, most of the software on the market was incompatible. This has been an issue with helping customers and employees use Apple products.

However, TeamViewer became a pioneer in the field of remote access for Macs, iPads and iPhones.

  • Cross-platform access to iOS, MacOS, Windows, Linux and Android
  • Enterprise-level security and a VPN alternative
  • Remote printing capabilities
  • Easy to install and set up unattended access
  • Administrators can use it to access remote servers
  • Mobile app available for iOS and Android devices
  • In-session cooperation for employees and technical support
  • Custom modules with company logos and branding
  • Central reporting for management consoles and devices

Many other remote access tools support Apple devices these days. But not all of them do it as well as TeamViewer. Individuals can download it for free. Businesses can request a 14-day commercial trial before purchasing a license.

# 3 – Remote Utilities Review – Best remote access for IT teams

Remote Utilities is somewhat unique when compared to some of the other tools on our list. This software was specially developed for IT help desks.

With this tool, your team has complete control over your IT infrastructure.

Here is an overview of the software's notable highlights:

  • Download on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android
  • File transfer mode
  • Two-factor authentication (2FA)
  • Unattended access to remote servers and workstations
  • Remote access via LAN or VPN
  • Deploy the program in an Active Directory network
  • Support for proxy servers
  • You can use a single PC on your LAN as a gateway for peers on the same network
  • Easy to scale as large as you need it to be
  • No mandatory, automatic, or unexpected upgrades
  • Custom configurations, even for the most demanding IT needs

Again, Remote Utilities isn't designed for the average joe or small business owner. This solution is aimed at IT teams and users with advanced needs. It's a little more complex than some of the other tools on our list, but does the job for the tech-savvy user.

Pricing starts at $ 99 with up to 20 endpoints per technology.

# 4 – Zoho Assist Review – Best for customer support

Zoho Assist is a web-based remote support solution for businesses. This is the best way to support your customers remotely on-demand.

The software can also manage unattended access sessions for internal devices on PCs, laptops, servers and mobile devices.

Zoho Assist is trusted by companies in a wide variety of industries. Regardless of whether your business is large or small, this software can meet your needs.

Let's take a closer look at the features, benefits, and notable highlights of Zoho Assist:

  • On-demand remote support for troubleshooting without prior installation
  • Integrated voice and video chat for improved customer support
  • Unattended remote access inside and outside your LAN
  • Bulk deployment options available (supports Windows and Mac)
  • Secure file transfers with SSL 256-bit AES encryption
  • Multiple monitor support and automatic detection of active monitors
  • Restart and reconnect remote desktops from anywhere with a single click

The software is ideal for customer support, IT help desks and outsourced MSP support.

Plans start at $ 8 per month for a single technician. The unattended access solution must be purchased separately from the remote support software. This also starts at $ 8 per month and includes 25 unattended computers. You can try Zoho Assist for free with a 15-day trial version. No credit card required.

# 5 – LogMeIn Pro Review – Best for having access to files and applications anytime

If you're looking for an easy way to access files and apps from anywhere on your computer, LogMeIn Pro is the clear winner. The software is easy to use, safe and extremely reliable.

It's a popular choice for SMBs in all industries.

Let's take a closer look at the software's features to find out why it's so highly recommended:

  • Simple step-by-step setup instructions for easy deployment
  • Access your remote desktop as if you were in front of the screen
  • Unlimited users and instant collaboration
  • Free access to LastPass to save and manage all passwords
  • View multiple monitors on a local 1: 1 screen
  • Remote printing function
  • 1TB file storage for access and sharing from anywhere
  • Quick access to frequently visited websites, cloud apps and desktop apps
  • Remote access on the go with the LogMeIn Pro mobile app

Single user plans start at $ 30 per month. This will give you access to two computers. A small business license starting at $ 129 per month is required to access up to ten computers.

Summary

Which remote access software is the best? It depends on what you are using it for.

Between Parallels Access, TeamViewer, Remote Utilities, Zoho Assist, and LogMeIn Pro, I know any one of these tools can meet your needs.

Just use the method outlined earlier in the guide to choose the right option for your business. There is something for everyone on my list.

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