Exploring TeamViewer alternatives can be a challenging process for many organizations, especially given the popularity of the remote desktop software.
TeamViewer has stood out for so long due to its ease-of-use and the ability for users to efficiently access and control devices remotely.
Its top-notch security, remote access features, communication tools, file-sharing options, and deployment on multiple devices make it particularly useful for medium and large businesses.
With this in mind, it’s no surprise that TeamViewer boasts more than 2.5 billion installations globally - and it’s a product that continues to grow.
However, concerns about its high pricing compared to other remote desktop software offerings, performance on low-end devices, and transfer speeds for large files means many users are seeking out TeamViewer alternatives.
Add to this the damaging accusations of ‘unclear’ renewal policies and it’s no surprise that some businesses opted for a shift away from the software.
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Luckily, users aren’t short of options in this regard. There are a range of solutions available on the market, all of which provide a host of different functions and offer a variety of pricing options.
But how do the alternatives shape up? This guide has eight TeamViewer alternatives, all of which have distinct differences and pricing options based on your individual needs.
Eight of the best TeamViewer alternatives available
AnyDesk
AnyDesk frames itself as a direct competitor to TeamViewer in the remote desktop software space. Many users consider it to have better stability, faster speeds, lower latency, and superior performance.
One of the best features of the AnyDesk software suite is that it allows users to self-host their own on-premise networks, and so no communications will be sent through AnyDesk servers.
As a result of this, customers can maintain a tighter grip on their network security, which is further bolstered by the fact AnyDesk uses AES-256 encryption. This means every session is encrypted from end-to-end.
Another bonus is that AnyDesk supports all major platforms, including ChromeOS, Linux, Android, and even Raspberry Pi in addition to the usual suspects of Windows and macOS. Customers can even access devices remotely using a free web client, with free usage on both Android and iOS.
Its proprietary DeskRT video codec software compresses videos for easier streaming, and creates more stable and lag-free functioning, even in areas with poor internet connectivity.
It's also cheaper than TeamViewer, which is never a bad thing.
Read our full AnyDesk review for more information.
Zoho Assist
Zoho Assist establishes on-demand, web-based sessions to manage various devices and servers from a distance.
Technicians are able to connect to desktops safely from anywhere in the world on a desktop or smartphone to troubleshoot and resolve customer IT problems.
Using Zoho Assist, file transfers can be initiated to securely send updates and software patches using SSL 256-bit AES encryption.
Zoho Assist's Unattended Remote Access tool easily controls devices, performing functions like reboots and shutdowns with a single click, or re-establishing the session that was active before a reboot.
Remote workers can share their screens with their colleagues during meetings, and toggle between multiple monitors. Other features such as video chat and session recordings are available in the more expensive Enterprise subscription plan for Remote Support, and in the Professional subscription plan for Unattended Access.
Read our full Zoho Assist review for more information.
Splashtop Business
Remote access and support software Splashtop enables companies to work seamlessly from home, or provide technical support to their customers. It offers robust security options using TLS and 256-bit AES encryption, device authentication, passwords, and 2FA.
Moreover, it seeks to provide zero trust security, a comprehensive IT protection model that grants access only after verifying the identity of those trying to connect to the network or organization.
Splashtop users can remotely access devices on different desktop and mobile platforms such as Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Similarly, administrators can invite users, adjust access permissions, and set security settings for everyone.
Remote employees can wake devices, reboot them, initiate and record sessions, print documents, and transfer files using the drag-and-drop feature.
However, these features are only available on the more expensive subscriptions.
In comparison with TeamViewer, Splashtop subscribers get reliable, remote device control solutions at prices of up to 50% less a year.
Read our full Splashtop Business review for more information.
Microsoft Remote Desktop
Microsoft Remote Desktop enables users to connect to and control a remote PC through the Remote Desktop Services (RDS) component and the RDP protocol.
Users have to configure their devices first, and download the Microsoft Remote Desktop app to access their computers from anywhere.
The Microsoft Remote Desktop app can run on Linux, iOS, and Android to connect to a Windows device by logging in with a username and password. Users can access their remote desktops using various devices such as tablets, PCs, and smartphones.
Once connected, they can use files, apps, and network resources on the remote PC.
Read our full Microsoft Remote Desktop review for more information.
RealVNC Connect
Virtual network computing (VNC) is a system that employs the Remote Frame Buffer (RFB) protocol to share desktops, and enable a device to remotely connect and control a computer.
RealVNC Connect builds upon this technology to create simple, yet powerful, fully-encrypted remote desktop software.
RealVNC Connect provides multi-platform support, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and up to 256-bit AES end-to-end encryption. It is flexible in that users can either pre-install the software or connect to it on-demand.
The software optimizes the network speed, and users can enjoy HD audio, fast streaming, and high-quality images.
In addition, screen-sharing is very responsive, and users can chat and send files.
Unlike TeamViewer, subscribers pay per device and not per user. Because you can deliver access to thousands of users by paying for a few licensed servers, RealVNC Connect is an ideal software solution for students engaged in remote learning.
Read our full RealVNC Connect review for more information.
ConnectWise Control
ConnectWise Control is remote access software that offers fast and secure connections anytime, anywhere, and on any device.
It is compatible with many operating systems and major browsers, and it is easy to configure and customize to enhance remote access management.
Its security features include AES-256 encryption, 2FA, and user permission management tools.
ConnectWise Control's Access features provide silent, fast service and seamless endpoint device management, enabling customers to continue their work without disruption.
Similarly, it can integrate with more than 100 tools and extensions such as Outlook and Zendesk. The software also generates concise reports with actionable insights.
Its flexible plans give its users greater power by letting them choose the features they need, and enabling them to add more features as their businesses grow.
Read our full ConnectWise Control review for more information.
Chrome Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop enables users to remotely connect to their home or work computers, and share their screens with others.
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Users can securely access their desktops using their phones, tablets, or other computers to receive remote support or collaborate in real-time with colleagues.
It’s built on Google's secure infrastructure, meaning users can access their devices safely. Users need to register and sign in to a Google account to access the remote desktop, and they must provide a PIN to connect to a device.
When it comes to how to set up Chrome Remote Desktop, it's fast, free, and simple to use. It enables users to view files or run programs from anywhere and at any time.
The Chrome Remote Desktop app offers cross-platform support, and its minimalist features are not as resource-intensive as TeamViewer’s feature set.
ISL Online
ISL Online (Internet Services Layer) is geared primarily towards IT technicians, enabling them to remotely access customers’ devices, collaborate with them through screen-sharing and chat features, troubleshoot issues with their computers or mobile phones, and resolve issues in real-time.
The ISL Online system contains the technician’s interface (ISL Light), the end-user interface (ISL Online Client), and the cloud-based or on-premise server. This remote desktop software boasts multi-platform support, 256-bit AES encryption, 2FA, and self-hosting server solutions.
Technicians can install updates and new software, toggle between multiple monitors, transfer files, and remotely shut down or reboot devices. ISL Online also has automatic session recordings to monitor, document, and audit remote support.
Remote employees can also use the software for their teleworking needs, with administrators setting user permissions to access selected computers.
The pricing options include pay-per-use, self-hosted, and multi-user license plans.
On the other hand, TeamViewer’s pricing caters to up to 30 licensed users. In addition, unlike ISL Online, TeamViewer doesn’t offer a self-hosted server solution.
Read our full ISL Online review for more information.
Understanding TeamViewer alternatives
Replacing the functionality, comprehensive feature set, and world-class security offered by TeamViewer can be challenging.
Alternatives such as AnyDesk and Zoho Assist are considered some of the best remote desktop software solutions available on the market.
However, AnyDesk is the most likely and worthy replacement for TeamViewer.
This is largely due to its reliable and innovative solutions for remote access, remote technical support, and efficient remote work and collaboration tools.
Further reading on remote desktops
If you'd like to learn more about remote desktop technology and platforms, we've got a wide range of content available for your reference.
Learn more about protocols such as RDP, XRDP or VNC and what TeamViewer offers; find out how to use Microsoft Remote Desktop and how to use remote desktop on Windows 10.
If you need walkthroughs for setting up remote access via Microsoft or Apple OS', see how to use remote desktop on Mac, how to set up Chrome Remote Desktop; and how to remote desktop from Mac to Windows.
