Top Remote Desktop Software Options for Field Service Companies

Due to the ongoing spread of COVID-19, many companies have switched to remote work to keep employees safe, yet still productive. As workforces make this adjustment, companies have begun to utilize more and more remote desktop software. Whether you need to remotely access a workstation from home or need to connect to an employee's system, you have many software options to choose from. In this article, we will review and compare the top remote desktop software programs.

What is Remote Desktop Software?

Remote desktop software (or RDS), allows a local desktop to connect to and control another system from nearly any location in the world. This is possible through VNC (Virtual Network Computing), which establishes a connection between the systems, allowing them to communicate with each other.

Why should I use Remote Desktop Software?

A good remote desktop software will ensure that you can run your business from anywhere, at any time. Employees working from home can utilize RDS to connect to their office workstations so they can access any files or projects saved to that system. If you are still in an office and plan on traveling or going on vacation, you can use RDS to check on your home or office PC at any time.

Let’s take a look at some of the best RDS options currently available. 

Best Remote Desktop Software Options

TeamViewer

TeamViewer offers remote desktop features and also allows users to conduct virtual meetings and presentations. TeamViewer is available in both premium and free versions, so whether you are looking to spend money or not, you can still utilize the software in some form. The layout is very user friendly and you can easily navigate through each feature. You can either allow control of your system or control another user's sysem, simply by providing each other with your TeamViewer ID numbers.

ConnectWise

ConnectWise is the best option for companies that would like to connect to customer workstations, whether to resolve an issue or retrieve files. (Fun Fact: The tech support team here at Smart Service actually uses this product to troubleshoot customer issues.) ConnectWise allows a customer's workstation to be controlled by another user, simply by entering in a code via a website. IT companies and help desk departments all over the world utilize ConnectWise, as it lets them easily connect to a customer’s machine to help resolve issues and transfer files seamlessly. 

AnyDesk

AnyDesk is another simple, yet effective RDS. Similar to ConnectWise, AnyDesk allows users to remotely connect via a join code. You do not have to install anything to use this software, you can just download and run the AnyDesk.exe file from their website. From there, you can share your remote code and get easy assistance. AnyDesk works on multiple platforms, including Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. This means you can connect to a phone from a computer, as well as to a computer from a phone! This can be very important to users who do not have access to their PC but need to connect to another one. The layout is clean and user friendly, making it a great option for those who are not too tech savvy. 

Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome RDS is a free extension for Google Chrome that allows your computer to be controlled via another computer or mobile device. This is the most simple and lightweight RDS option in this list, as you can easily get it set up without downloading any other software besides the extension. Once the extension is added to your browser, you will set up a pin that you will use to connect from another device. You can control your desktop from your phone as well, making it great if you can't get to a PC but still need to access something on your workstation.

Microsoft RDS

Old but gold, Microsoft RDS is a built-in Windows remote desktop software that allows you to connect to another Windows PC using the computer's name. It takes a bit longer to get this one set up, as you have to add the computer name and username of the system you want to connect to, a tricky proposition for those without a lot of tech savvy. However, once you connect, you will see why Microsoft RDS is still the go-to for some companies. You can easily transfer files between machines, as well as remotely control the computer. The downside of Microsoft RDS though is that it automatically signs out remote users during connections if another user tries to connect. Aside from that, Microsoft’s built in RDS continually proves itself a valuable feature in Windows to this day.

In summary, most RDS options currently available have similar functionality. For the most part, they only differ in layout and more advanced features. If you are looking for a one-stop shop to remotely connect to computers as well as conduct meetings and presentations, then TeamViewer may be the best option for you. If you are looking for the easiest possible way to connect to another computer from a phone, then AnyDesk or Chrome Remote Desktop may be the route to take. At the end of the day, the choice depends on your company and its specific needs for remote work.