Best RDP Alternatives [Remote Desktop Alternative]

Discover the best RDP alternatives for secure, fast, and reliable remote desktop access in 2024. Boost productivity with our top picks!

Updated: 14 May, 24 by Antoniy Yushkevych 14 Min
Best RDP Alternatives [Remote Desktop Alternative]

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Remote desktops, which play an important part in today's IT software environment, are used for a myriad of purposes. You'll be employing remote desktop software if you're providing assistance for PCs and laptops, working with virtual servers or apps, or working in a firm with offices spread across the country or abroad. For remote communications, Windows has a built-in protocol. RDP, also known as Remote Desktop Protocol, is a graphical interface that allows users to connect to remote computers through a virtual network. However, there are currently several RDP substitutes available in the industry that are meant to fill up any gaps in functionality.

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Why do you need an RDP alternative?

It's not only a matter of choosing to use something other than RDP. It's a requirement. There is a range of reasons why you require an alternative to RDP.

  1. Although Microsoft provides RDP software updates, including security patches, the system administrator is responsible for deploying the upgrades across the network and devices. But the updates aren’t efficient and are also delayed, which leaves your system at risk.
  2. Since RDP is built into the Windows operating system, it is widely used. As so many people depend on Microsoft products – from individuals to companies – its availability makes it a frequent target for attackers.
  3. A "wormable" remote desktop implies that malicious code may clone itself and propagate to other computers on your network. It can go unnoticed for an extended length of time without adequate supervision and fixes. Nevertheless, such fixes aren't always applied promptly, and the virus can spread throughout a whole corporate network.
  4. One of the main reasons for looking for RDP alternatives is that they are more compatible with many operating systems and devices that make up a complicated network architecture. Depending on RDP for global corporate enterprises may restrict their capacity to reach specific devices and operating systems, preventing efficient and safe processes.

How to choose the Best among several remote desktop alternatives?

There are numerous things to consider when selecting a suitable RDP alternative, but the volume of connections you're handling, the sort of data in your environment (e.g., whether it's confidential and requires extra protection), and the scale of your company will all play a role. Some of the key factors can be:

1. Security

While you work on a remote connection, the primary concern should be the security of your sensitive data. So, when you decide on an alternative for RDP, make sure the program has centralized multi-factor authentication and other security features. This will help you to save yourself from cyber attacks during your remote sessions.

2. User access procedures that are thorough

RDP has a lot of issues with user accessibility which is why you should pick a remote desktop solution that includes complete user-authorized protocols. User authorization management ensures that recipient devices are configured with parameters that allow them to receive legitimate connection invites. Aside from that, there are also IP address checks, multi-tier authentication, etc.

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3. In-depth Audit Records

Establishing a secure system necessitates possessing full audit records. System administrators and IT teams can see exactly what's occurring on a network, including failures, unusual activity, and detecting threats, thanks to audit logs. Now that you know how to choose the best RDP software, know about the best alternatives available in the market below.

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List of the 10 Best RDP Alternative

As we mentioned, there are a plethora of alternatives available. Each one holds its benefits. Hence you need to choose wisely to ensure your RDP alternative leverages you to do all the work that you were required to do. Now check out our specially curated list of the best RDP alternatives. Let’s start!

1. SolarWinds Dameware Remote Support (DRS)

Dameware Remote Support is a massive boost over RDP, aiming to deliver all of the exact functionality as the Microsoft protocol, as well as additional features that assist in issue solving and remote device safety DRS, like RDP, makes it simple to access other computers remotely and securely.

Pros

  1. In Dameware, remote connections are ideal. You may build tech units that can only connect to a certain set of workstations or servers, assuring that your staff stays concentrated on the systems they've been allocated.
  2. Deploying or removing services from one or more machines in a cluster saves a lot of time and is quite simple to perform.
  3. It lets the customer carry on working on their System while you use tools like Remote Registry, File Shares, and Processes to analyze their problem.

Cons

  1. Multi-monitor support can be updated.
  2. DameWare Mobile uses different passwords than the desktop version and cannot be connected to an Active Directory credential.

You can check it out here.

2. SolarWinds Dameware Remote Everywhere (DRE)

Dameware Remote Everywhere is another fantastic choice to explore, especially if you operate in a cloud-based IT setting. DRE is similar to DRS in certain aspects, although it has somewhat distinct characteristics. DRE is cloud-based, which means it can be accessed from any suitable device with an internet connection. RDP connects to distant devices over the internet as well; however, there is a speed difference between the two programs. DRE lays a priority on speed; distant connections are generally established in less than eight seconds.

Pros

  1. Keeps track of session information over numerous reconnects.
  2. The deployment techniques are excellent and easy to handle using GPO.
  3. The interface for viewing waiting sessions and collaborating with other professionals is appealing and easy to use.

Cons

  1. End-user interactions via Google Chrome Extensions, might be a bit complicated for some users.
  2. It appears that stored connections are sometimes "reset" randomly.

You can check it out here.

3. Royal TS

RDP, as well as other connection protocols, such as VNC, SSH, FTP, and SFTP, are supported by Royal TS, as well as connecting via web-based tools. It offers credentials management and sharing options, much like other applications, so you don't have to log in every time. It also can debug remotely.

Pros

  1. It can construct command and key series tasks, allowing you to design your unique tasks and automate aspects of your troubleshooting procedures.
  2. A centrally hosted file may be opened, accessed, edited, and saved by multiple users.
  3. It is not altered when a user saves a file; it gets merged.

You can check it out here.

Cons

  1. Major updates necessitate the purchase of a legitimate membership, which might be costly.
  2. There isn't a central server that would enable you to have all of your connections in one place while using your credentials.

You can check it out here.

4. Zoho Assist

Zoho Assist is a useful program that allows us to remotely access our clients' workstations for mentoring or troubleshooting. Furthermore, the program allows us to remotely install software on the workstations of our team members, and it works well.

Pros

  1. Transferring files is easy and secure
  2. Machines can be remotely restarted or shut down.
  3. The UI is simple to use, and the connection is quick.

Cons

  1. Seldom do remote video calls fail to connect efficiently?
  2. The program requires persistent internet access, and even a little pause might cause the system to malfunction.

You can check it out here.

5. TeamViewer

TeamViewer is a cloud-based platform that allows users to connect from anywhere in the world. It's simple to use whenever and however you need it, and it's built to work with a variety of operating systems and devices. TeamViewer has grown from a pioneering remote control assistance application to a worldwide corporation that today supports a growing variety of use cases.

Pros

  1. It is convenient and effortless to handle.
  2. Using the built-in features, TeamViewer makes file transfers simple.
  3. The ability to reset a PC into safety status remotely.

Cons

  1. It Connects with one user at a time.
  2. When it concerns sending huge files, it is inefficient.

You can check it out here.

6. Red Hat Virtualization (RHV) (formerly RHEV)

It is, in my opinion, a brilliant option for any virtualized scenario. The one situation in which RDP might not be the ideal option is when building up a cloud infrastructure; you could incorporate RHEV for that. With an RHEL-based centralized management server, Red Hat Virtualization employs the SPICE protocol and VDSM (Virtual Desktop Server Manager). An Active Directory service or the FreeIPA Active Directory emulation can be used to obtain user and group information.

Pros

  1. Improved security and central administration. In addition to that, it is easier to troubleshoot and comprehend the client system.
  2. Migration of Virtual Machines from one physical manager to another.
  3. Assistance for open-source community projects, like Gluster.

Cons

  1. Native Ceph implementation is unavailable.
  2. WebUI navigation needs improvement.

You can check it out here.

7. Supremo Remote Desktop

Its user-friendly interface makes it effortless to operate. Supremo is a compact executable program that does not necessitate the setup and configuration of routers or firewalls. To start a session, you don't need to do anything: Supremo can be activated immediately when the remote PC boots up.

Pros

  1. Simple user interface and minimal footprint. It is customizable too.
  2. The ease and simplicity with which you can connect to a remote computer.
  3. Easy to download and automatic update.

Cons

  1. VOIP and remote printing features are not available.
  2. Some Bugs and errors cause lags and loss of connection.

You can check it out here.

8. VNC Connect

Both VNC and RDP use networks to connect devices, either through a server or one-to-one. Even though their objectives are the same, their methods for achieving them are not. RDP has restricted platform support, but VNC is compatible with a variety of operating systems. The levels of security of the two protocols are drastically different. If you need to build a remote desktop connection solution across a vast array of systems, RDP is not particularly suitable. As a result, RDP may limit your capacity to give IT support.

Pros

  1. There is a minimal to zero lag time when it comes to attempting distant presentations.
  2. It would have been nice if the application included a list of machines it could detect with the agent operating in the connection screen.
  3. Fast response, however on slower connections, you may change the connection quality as well.

Cons

  1. The feature to see multiple screens in a single view is not present.
  2. If users do not understand how to utilize it, finding it out might be difficult and unpleasant. A more thorough tutorial is necessary.

You can check it out here.

9. LogMeIn

This one allows you to access all of your remote desktop monitors on your display simultaneously. You can use your iPhone, iPad, or Android mobile devices to operate your PC. In addition, 1TB of cloud storage is accessible for sharing files with anybody quickly and securely.

Pros

  1. It is extremely concerned about security. The clients interact through secure channels and provide multi-factor identification, which is highly essential.
  2. Allows you to view and utilize areas that aren't accessible through Microsoft Teams.
  3. Renders a built-in protected file transfer dependence.

Cons

  1. The antivirus function is in desperate need of assistance. It does not appropriately restrict pathways, and some further adjustments are required.
  2. The user interface is more technical than user-friendly.

You can check it out here.

10. GoToMyPC

GoToMyPC includes drag-and-drop data transfer across computers, remote print, and multi-monitor capability, in addition to remote management of your host PC. Within GoToMyPC, there's also a productivity slider option for adjusting the proportion of pace and appearance. Another useful tool is guest access, which allows you to invite people to view files on your host system instantly.

Pros

  1. Connection speed and security are some of the best features.
  2. Customer support is immediate and precise.
  3. One of the prime features is the reliability users encounter.

Cons

  1. The login process can be a bit complicated.
  2. Users have complained of the program getting frozen sometimes.

You can check it out here.

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Takeaway

Here, we have offered you a compiled list of the best RDP alternatives with an overview of all the top products. As you can see, each of them has its plus points. Now, think about the various measures and find the perfect match for you. All the programs mentioned above provide a free trial to comprehend the process and functioning. Share it with your co-workers and upgrade your remote workspace now!

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Category: Remote
Antoniy Yushkevych

Antoniy Yushkevych

Master of word when it comes to technology, internet and privacy. I'm also your usual guy that always aims for the best result and takes a skateboard to work. If you need me, you will find me at the office's Counter-Strike championships on Fridays or at a.yushkevych@monovm.com
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Prof. Kayla Wilkinson DVM

2024, Nov, 24

This is a fantastic article! It's interesting to see so many alternatives to RDP, especially with the focus on security and usability across different operating systems. I appreciate the detailed pros and cons for each option, making it easier to compare and select the right tool for specific needs. The inclusion of newer solutions like Zoho Assist and GoToMyPC alongside well-known tools like TeamViewer showcases the diversity available. Definitely a must-read for anyone navigating remote desktop solutions!