Best Remote Desktop Connection Managers

Gone are the days when IT department technicians needed to visit each desktop computer in order to set it up, install new software, or fix a problem. Remote desktop systems not only make IT support work easier, but they also enable the centralization of help desks on a global scale.

Product support for software houses selling both to the general public and to businesses is a whole lot easier. This is thanks to remote desktop systems and an entire industry – Managed Service Providers (MSPs) – wouldn’t exist without remote desktop systems.

Here is our list of the best remote desktop connection managers:

  1. Dameware Mini Remote Control EDITOR’S CHOICE A remote access system that includes the ability to start up sleeping endpoints and share screens as well as access the operating system. It installs on Windows and Windows Server. Start a 14-day free trial.
  2. ManageEngine Remote Access Plus (FREE TRIAL) This is a connection manager that provides desktop views of remote devices with diagnostics tools built into the package. Available for Windows Server or as a cloud service. Access a 30-day free trial.
  3. Zoho Assist (FREE TRIAL) This online system is available in many editions that provide remote access utilities and Help Desk tools for incident management. There is also a free edition. Start a 15-day free trial.
  4. mRemoteNG A free, lightweight remote access system with a tabbed interface to handle multiple simultaneous connections. It runs on Windows and Windows Server.
  5. Royal TS A connection manager that is able to control remote connection systems provided by other applications, such as TeamViewer, Hyper-V, and VMWare. It installs on Windows and Windows Server.
  6. Atera This RMM and PSA package for managed service providers includes AnyDesk and Splashtop for remote access and remote desktop functions. This is a cloud-based service.
  7. Devolutions A comprehensive, secure remote desktop connection manager that has strong security features and auditing routines. It is available in free and paid versions for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
  8. TeamViewer A widely-used remote desktop system that has a range of uses besides IT support. It installs on Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, Raspberry Pi, iOS, and Android. It can access devices with those operating systems plus IoT devices.
  9. AnyDesk Free for home users and three paid editions for businesses, this remote access system supports communication between devices running Windows, macOS, Linux, FreeBSD, Raspberry Pi, ChromeOS, Android, and iOS.
  10. Splashtop This is a good choice for IT support departments and it is popular with MSPs. The technician console is available for Windows, Windows Mobile, macOS, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire.
  11. Take Control Useful for IT department technicians or MSP operatives, this remote desktop access system is available in versions for individual freelancers and teams. This is a cloud-based service.
  12. ISL Online A reliable, secure, cloud-mediated remote desktop access service that facilitates communication between devices running Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Windows Mobile.

Over the years, demands for more features and stiff competition between vendors have resulted in some very sophisticated remote desktop connection managers. Some useful features that are now common include:

  • Wake-on-LAN to turn on unattended desktops
  • Operating system access for installing software and conducting investigations
  • Screen mirroring to watch the actions of a user
  • Remote control to let the user see what the technician is doing
  • Multiple simultaneous screens
  • A credentials manager
  • Secure connections protected by encryption
  • Chat facilities alongside screen viewers
  • Screen sharing for team collaboration
  • Integration into help desk management systems
  • Access for automated processes
  • Logging of all technician actions

The advent of Managed Service Providers means that remote desktop connection managers are now integrated into a suite of technician tools that are geared towards accessing the desktops of other companies to fulfill the terms of a support contract. These suites of tools are called Remote Monitoring and Management packages (RMM).

Not only do MSPs need to provide their technicians with excellent tools, such as remote desktop systems but they must also ensure that the data and systems of those client companies remain secure. This means tightening working practices and using secure systems in order to rule out the possibility of rogue MSP employees causing damage to client systems or stealing data.

The best remote desktop connection managers

In this review, we looked for those remote desktop connection managers that are suitable for use by teams of support technicians that have the responsibility for maintaining a fleet of endpoints and supporting users.

Our methodology for selecting a remote desktop manager 

We reviewed the market for remote desktop management systems and analyzed tools based on the following criteria:

  • Options for direct access to the command line and to the Desktop environment
  • The ability to clone the Desktop view or get remote control, allowing the user to watch actions
  • Tools to communicate with end users alongside a Desktop view
  • A tabbed interface to allow a technician to switch between connections to multiple computers
  • A logging system to track technician activity
  • A demo system or free trial for a no-risk assessment or a completely free system
  • An effective tool that is worth the price or a free tool that is worth installing
  • With these selection criteria in mind, we identified a group of remote desktop connection managers that we are happy to recommend.

You can read more about each of these options in the following sections.

1. Dameware Mini Remote Control (FREE TRIAL)

SolarWinds Dameware Mini Remote Control - Properties

Dameware Mini Remote Control is a flexible package that is suitable for support technicians working from solo right up to the IT departments of large multinationals. It allows you to access endpoints running Windows, macOS, and Linux – that includes servers as well as desktops.

Key Features:

  • Connects to Windows, macOS, and Linux
  • Installs on Windows
  • Multiple simultaneous sessions
  • Wake-on-LAN
  • Reboot option

Why do we recommend it?

Dameware Mini Remote Control is an on-premises package that provides technicians with remote access to endpoints and can even wake up computers that are turned off. The system can access devices running Windows, Linux, and macOS. There is a remote desktop feature with optional remote control.

Tools in the console allow the technician to communicate with the user of a device that is being accessed through a chat system. Other utilities include screenshot capture and file transfer systems.

The remote devices that are to be accessed all need an agent program installed on them. However, this can be sent out as an automated software installer and loaded in bulk across all devices, preparing them for Dameware Mini Remote Control access.

The screen for the console allows for multiple sessions to be open simultaneously. It gives a view of the desktop of each contacted device, allowing the technician to use each computer as though it was the local machine.

The service allows access to devices that are turned off and includes two-factor authentication. The technician accounts can be managed centrally through Active Directory and any credentials needed to access the remote network and remote devices are kept hidden from the operator.

Dameware Mini Remote Control Remote Desktop Connection Manager

Who is it recommended for?

This package runs on Windows or Windows Server. The tool can be bought with just one license, which is suitable for use by independent support technicians. A group package is available for IT department support teams and managed service providers. The remote access console includes maintenance and troubleshooting tools.

Pros:

  • Multi-platform (Windows, Linux, Mac OS
  • Easy drag-and-drop file transfer
  • Full suite of support tools for remote management
  • Support for multiple remote protocols (VNC, RDP, KVM, MRC)
  • Simple licensing with no limit on the number of supported machines

Cons:

  • Would like to see a longer 30-day trial

Dameware Mini Remote Control can be accessed with just a single-user license as well as group licensing. Learn how Dameware compares to competitors like TeamViewer and LogMeIn. The software for the system installs on Windows and Windows Server and it is available for a 14-day free trial.

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Dameware Mini Remote Control is our top pick for a remote desktop connection manager because it is so scalable. The package is available to sole-operators, giving a single technician the full functionality available to large teams of IT support staff. This remote access system includes everything a technician needs to solve problems on remote devices.

Get 14-day Free Trial: dameware.com/dameware-mini-remote-control/registration

OS: Windows and Windows Server

2. ManageEngine Remote Access Plus (FREE TRIAL)

ManageEngine Remote Access Plus

ManageEngine Remote Access Plus is a package of services that are needed by support technicians. Apart from a remote desktop viewer, this bundle gives you diagnostic tools. The remote access system is able to manage connections to remote devices running Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Key Features:

  • Connects to Windows, macOS, and Linux
  • Multiple simultaneous connections
  • Free version available

Why do we recommend it?

ManageEngine Remote Access Plus is a system that provides both backend remote access and remote desktop functions. This system provides remote control, file transfer, wake up, and restart of remote devices. This system is available for Windows Server or as a cloud SaaS package. The console includes voice and video chat for communication with the user.

The remote access dashboard includes a window of the remote device’s desktop and a side panel that enables different screens to be selected. For example, it is possible to view a command prompt view as well as the desktop. The panel also offers a chat window for communication with the user of the device that is being accessed.

ManageEngine Remote Access Plus Remote Desktop Connection

Who is it recommended for?

This system is suitable for use by an individual support technician or by a team. The package has a free edition, which will access up to 10 remote devices. All editions can access remote devices running Windows, macOS, or Linux and the top plan also includes a pack of troubleshooting tools.

Pros:

  • Offers diagnostic tools and automated monitoring sweeps
  • Remote access, remote control, and remote desktop
  • Free version available
  • Connection recording or event logging

Cons:

  • Doesn’t allow different remote access systems to be managed

There are three editions for ManageEngine Remote Access Plus: Free, Standard, and Professional. The Free version is the same as the Professional edition but limited to accessing 10 devices. The Standard edition includes remote access systems and the Professional and Free editions add on diagnostic tools. This package is available as a cloud-based service or it can be downloaded for installation on Windows Server. You can assess Remote Access Plus with a 30-day free trial.

ManageEngine Remote Access Plus Start 30-day FREE Trial

3. Zoho Assist (FREE TRIAL)

Zoho Assist

Zoho Assist is a Help Desk package from a brand that provides a large number of business tools online, which includes a productivity suite that rivals Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace. The Zoho Assist system is available as a standalone service or as part of a bundle of Zoho systems – all of which are based in the cloud.

Key Features:

  • Web-based console
  • Remote sessions
  • Unattended access

Why do we recommend it?

The Zoho Assist system is entirely online and includes storage space for the event records that the system generates. The package implements remote desktop access, getting support technicians into devices running Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, Android, and iOS. The service can be used for corporate support to assist users or for external product support.

Technicians access the Zoho Assist suite through a browser. The tool provides a support session that gives remote access to computer desktops. There is also an option for unattended access to fleet computers. The system is able to wake up computers that are switched off. In all use cases, the remote device can be running Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android. The remote device needs an access agent installed on it.

In the user support scenario, technicians have access to a chat panel, and voice and video chat are also possible. The tool lets the technician see the screen that the user is sitting at and also take control for usage demonstrations. If the remote device is owned by the user and not the business, the technician needs to send the user an email with a link to the remote access utility download page before a session can be created.

Zoho Assist Remote Desktop Connection Managers

Who is it recommended for?

The Zoho package is priced and designed to support all sizes of support operations from single-tech freelance workers to the support teams of multinational organizations or managed service providers. The smallest package is Free and the paid plans are priced per technician. Zoho Assist’s client list includes Scania and FedEx.

Pros:

  • Options for supporting external customers with their own devices
  • File transfer and maintenance utilities
  • Central access controls for technician teams

Cons:

  • No on-premises version

There is a Free edition, which is suitable for use by one technician who is supporting five unattended devices. You get more features with the five paid editions. The best way to assess the Zoho Assist system is to access a 15-day free trial.

Zoho Assist Start a 15-day FREE Trial

4. mRemoteNG

mRemoteNG

mRemoteNG is a free, open-source remote desktop connection manager. Getting something for free is great but be aware that this utility isn’t as sophisticated as the paid tools on this list.  The remote view gives access to the Desktop or the operating system and the interface for the console includes tabbed sessions. This allows the technician to switch between concurrent live sessions connected to several machines at once.

Key Features:

  • Multiple simultaneous sessions
  • Desktop or command line access
  • Free tool

Why do we recommend it?

The mRemoteNG package provides a remote desktop to access Windows and remote operating system access to Windows PCs and computers running Linux. The package runs on Windows and can manage multiple open connections through a tabbed interface. The system also provides credential storage for fast reconnection.

The interface is able to store remote device credentials so that they don’t have to be re-entered at the beginning of each session. However, there isn’t a secure distribution system for remote credentials in this tool.

mRemoteMG Remote Desktop Connection Management

Who is it recommended for?

The big appeal of this system is that it is free to use. There isn’t a version for Linux and there is no cloud version, however, anyone with a PC can have it. The tool also provides a way to access to VMs using Hyper-V and it has a built-in Nmap port scanner.

Pros:

  • Transparent open-source project
  • Multi-protocol support (RDP, SSH, Telnet, VNC)
  • Simple interface that can support a larger number of clients
  • Free to use

Cons:

  • Users are dependent on the community for support and bug fixes
  • Lacks remote management features for tech support teams
  • Limited login audit features make it difficult to audit technician access

mRemoteNG is suitable for home use or for single technicians supporting small businesses. The software installs on Windows.

5. Royal TS

RoyalTS

Royal TS is available in free and paid versions and it is a good choice for technicians working for small businesses. This system manages connections that are operated by other systems, such as Hyper-V, VMWare, or TeamViewer.

Key Features:

  • Connects to Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android
  • Manages third-party remote access systems
  • Tabbed interface for multiple sessions

Why do we recommend it?

Royal TS provides access to remote devices running Windows, macOS, or Linux. Get screen views and remote control or get in at the operating system with this tool. You can also connect to VMware and Hyper-V VMs with this system. The console is able to manage multiple open sessions simultaneously and it also provides a file transfer utility.

This is a secure remote connection system with encryption for connections and an attractive console that runs on Windows. The service is able to connect to remote endpoints running Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, so this is a good choice for IT departments that need to operate a UEM strategy that includes mobile devices as well as desktop computers. The dashboard of the viewer is tabbed, allowing multiple simultaneous sessions that can be connected to devices with different operating systems.

Royal Apps Royal TS Remote Desktop Connection Managers

The system is designed for teams of technicians and it includes work distribution and team collaboration features. It is possible to set up a central store of access credentials that can log a technician in automatically, so individuals don’t need to learn login account details.

Who is it recommended for?

The system will run on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. There is also a networked version for Windows Server that will provide connection management for multiple technician consoles. Use the package for free to access up to 10 remote devices. The paid version is priced per user with a perpetual license.

Pros:

  • Multi-protocol support (SSH, SFTP, VNC)
  • Works cross-functionally with Windows, Linux, and macOS
  • Supports popular integration into platforms such as Teamviewer and Hyper-V
  • Macro support for automated remediation

Cons:

  • Multi-user features can be clunky and may slow down teams working on enterprise-level networks

The free version of Royal TS is called Lite and it is limited to maintaining connections for ten devices. The paid version has a one-off purchase price that is levied per user.

6. Atera

Atera Dashboard

Atera is a package of tools for managed service providers and it includes tools for technicians and also systems for team management. The technician tools include AnyDesk for remote access and Splashtop for a remote desktop utility. Although these two tools are not native to the Atera system, they are integrated, which makes Atera a remote desktop connection manager.

Key Features:

  • Designed for MSPs
  • Choice of Splashtop and AnyDesk
  • Companion ticketing system
  • Chat window

Why do we recommend it?

Atera is a remote monitoring and management package that is delivered from the cloud. This system offers remote access by including a license for Splashtop. Desktop access and remote control are possible. The automated processes in the package also get remote access to endpoints for software deployment, patching, and standard maintenance tasks.

Atera Remote Desktop Connection Manager

The Splashtop and AnyDesk systems are listed separately here below. Atera customers get all of the functionality described in those two reviews.

The full Atera package includes a Help Desk system. This includes a framework for creating a customer portal, to which you can add your own branding – or that of your client. The portal includes options for self-managed password reset, a knowledge base, and a ticket-raising service.

Other parts of the Atera Help Desk system include automated ticket routing, a team manager supervision console, and dashboards for technicians into which the AnyDesk and Splashtop services fit. Atera includes a password locker that distributes credentials confidentially. All connections to client endpoints are protected by 256-bit AES encryption.

Who is it recommended for?

Atera is built in two versions: for IT departments and for managed service providers. Both versions are packaged in four plans and all include Splashtop for remote access. In each version, all but the lowest plan also includes a license for Anydesk, which is an alternative remote access system.

Pros:

  • A complete package of tools for MSPs, not just remote desktop functions
  • Options for Wake-on-LAN to access devices that are powered off
  • Channels for communication with users
  • Integration into a support technician dashboard
  • Connection security through encryption

Cons:

  • The remote connection services are not native to the Atera system

Atera is a SaaS platform and is charged for by subscription. There are three plans available and the first of these does not include AnyDesk. All plans include Splashtop. Payment plans are monthly and yearly, with the annual plan working out cheaper per month.

7. Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager

Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager

Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager is offered in free and paid versions. This is a very comprehensive service that can access desktops, servers, IoT devices, and cloud resources for maintenance and troubleshooting.

Key Features:

  • Connects to Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android
  • Accesses computers and IoT devices
  • Free version available

Why do we recommend it?

Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager forges connections between installed units. That means you need to have an agent installed on each device that you want to access remotely. Both the viewer and the agent are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. There is no version for Linux.

The main difference between the two versions is that the paid version, called Enterprise, includes team management functions. Both versions can be used by businesses. The Devolutions system requires two elements: a viewer, and a remote agent. Both of these systems can communicate across operating systems and they are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

The viewer includes the ability to open multiple sessions to different endpoints. All session activities are logged to provide an audit trail and protection against technician action.

Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager

Important extra features in the Enterprise edition include secure password management for remote devices and collaboration tools, such as session sharing and pooled databases.

Who is it recommended for?

There are two editions for the Devolutions system. One is free and runs on a technician’s device. The other system is a networked service with team management functions. Both versions will store credentials for fast connections with the Team package storing credentials centrally. The service provides activity logging for compliance auditing.

Pros:

  • Has a Free and Enterprise edition
  • Simple and sleek interface that scales well
  • Integrations for TeamViewer, LogMeIn, and ConnectWise Control
  • Enterprise version offers internal collaboration tools, great for MSPs

Cons:

  • Multi-user features can be clunky and may slow down teams at scale
  • Can feel overwhelming with too many features and connection options.
  • Offline mode could use improvement

Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager Enterprise Edition is available for a 30-day free trial.

8. TeamViewer

TeamViewer

TeamViewer is a very widely-used remote desktop management system and is the leading package in the sector with more than two billion installations. The tool is free for home use. This package derives its name for its strong team collaboration features and it is ideal for use by large IT departments.

Key Features:

  • Connects to Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Raspberry Pi, Chrome OS, and Linux
  • Team access features
  • Accesses IoT devices

Why do we recommend it?

TeamViewer is the most widely used remote access tool in the world and the company has now expanded into providing remote monitoring and management packages as well. This system requires an agent to be downloaded onto the remote device that is to be accessed and connections are mediated in the cloud.

The team management services in this system include secure password distribution, screen sharing, video conferencing, and demonstration broadcasting. These features make TeamViewer an appealing system for a wide range of uses, not just IT support.

Technician account access is secured by two-factor authentication and all transmissions are protected by 256-bit AES encryption. The dashboard’s main panel gives a view of the remote desktop. Side panels add on tools for investigations and problem-solving. The technician console runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, Raspberry Pi, iOS, and Android. The remote device can be running any of those operating systems and the service is also able to access IoT devices.

Who is it recommended for?

The endpoints involved in a connection can be running Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Chrome OS, or Raspberry Pi. It is also possible for technicians to access the service on the cloud through any standard browser. Each access session requires a passcode, giving the owner of the remote device control over the session.

Pros:

  • Easy to use for both technicians and end-users
  • Uses 2FA to initiate sessions making it more secure than similar remote tools
  • Works well over limited bandwidth connections

Cons:

  • Its popularity makes it a popular target for attackers
  • The free version often terminates early and falsely detects commercial use
  • Both versions of Teamviewer must be on the same version in order to start a connection

The free version can be downloaded from the TeamViewer website. The paid version is available in three editions: Single User, Multi-User, and For Teams. The paid service is offered on a 14-day free trial.

9. AnyDesk

AnyDesk-v5-windows-main-screen

AnyDesk is free for home use and is a paid package for businesses. There are three editions of the business service: Lite, Professional, and Power. Although this system requires on-premises software, the service is charged for on a subscription basis.

Key Features:

  • Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Raspberry Pi, Chrome OS, Unix, and Linux
  • Device owner has control over access
  • Edition for multiple simultaneous sessions

Why do we recommend it?

AnyDesk is a rival to the TeamViewer system and it works in a very similar way. That is, endpoint units on each end of a connection need to link through a cloud platform. The system can be used to access managed devices or the devices of user-owners. In user support made, the remote device user can block connections.

The Lite version connects to one endpoint at a time. The two higher plans enable multiple simultaneous connections. All connections are secured and technician console access is protected by individual account credentials.

The service is mediated by the AnyDesk cloud server but is accessed through a technician console that is installed on-premises and an agent installed on remote devices. Both systems are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Unix, Android, iOS, Chrome OS, and Raspberry Pi. The owner of the remote device has control over access permission and can revoke access rights. This makes AnyDesk a good option for the service teams that support commercial or home-use software.

AnyDesk Remote Desktop Connection Manager

Who is it recommended for?

The control that this tool gives to the owner of the remote device gives private individuals the confidence to install the access agent. This makes the tool ideal for product support outside of the company. The service for managed devices is suitable for in-house device management and user support.

Pros:

  • Cross-platform support for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Unix.
  • Simple interface, more suited for smaller networks
  • Pricing and features make AnyDesk a solid option for home users and small businesses

Cons:

  • File transfers don’t resume if the internet connection is lost
  • Endpoint agents can be resource-intensive
  • Is sensitive to network speed, features can struggle on limited bandwidth connections

10. Splashtop

Splashtop

Splashtop is a subscription remote desktop system that is free for individual use. The system has two parts:  the Splashtop Personal App, which is the technician’s console, and the Splashtop Streamer which runs on the remote device.

Key Features:

  • Connects to Windows, macOS, and Linux
  • Mobile app for technicians
  • Per-technician pricing

Why do we recommend it?

Splashtop is one of the two remote access systems you get with an Atera subscription – the other is AnyDesk. You can also get this remote access tool individually. The Splashtop service is a mediated access system that connects through a cloud-based controller. Remote devices and technician computers can be running Windows, macOS, or Linux.

The Splashtop Personal App is available for Windows, Windows Mobile, macOS, Android, iOS — there is a charge for the iOS version. The Splashtop Streamer is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Splashtop Remote Desktop Connection Managers

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is a very good choice for home-based or independent technicians because the tech console is also available in a mobile app for Android and iOS. You can be available for an emergency support call even when you are out shopping. A corporate plan includes team management and credential storage centralization.

Pros:

  • Very simple to set up, similar to how TeamViewer establishes remote connections
  • Free for individual use, great for home offices
  • Available cross-platform as well as on iOS and Android

Cons:

  • Apple users will have to pay for the iOS app
  • The trial period is only 7 days
  • Lacks advanced features like remote troubleshooting and multiple connection protocol options

Splashtop is charged on a subscription per technician per month. You can get a 7-day free trial of the Business Access plan.

11. Take Control

solarwinds take control

Take Control, by SolarWinds, is a product of that company’s MSP division. However, IT departments would also benefit from this package. In fact, it would even be of use to independent, freelance support technicians.

Key Features:

  • Connects to Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux
  • Task management tool
  • SaaS package

Why do we recommend it?

Take Control is a cloud-based system. Technicians access the console through any standard browser and get access to remote devices running Windows, macOS, and Linux. It can also access mobile devices running Android or iOS. The remote device needs an agent installed on it but this can be managed remotely.

Features in the tool include task management and demand servicing utilities, such as a queuing system that allows one technician to line up a row of user queries to deal with.

Another aspect of this tool that makes it very scalable and suitable for all sizes of support operations is its cloud-based structure and has a subscription charge mechanism. The price is calculated per technician, so a single-technician operation for an affordable fee gets just as many utilities as a large team of support operatives. Cost-saving features include a chat system to communicate with users and integration with VoIP services.

Technicians can access unattended devices, making a visible intervention or working in the background. Remote access is possible for devices running Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Solarwinds Take Control Remote Desktop Connection

Who is it recommended for?

This tool can be used for managed remote devices and the system is designed for use by managed service providers. Each managed device needs an agent installed on it. However, it can also be used for product support to the general public by sending a download link to the customer.

Pros:

  • Built with MSPs in mind, the product can be white-labeled and designed for multi-tenant use
  • Cloud-based application makes onboarding easier
  • Pricing based per technician, not device
  • Supports user surveys to help measure customer satisfaction
  • Good fit for both small and large help desk teams

Cons:

  • Would benefit from a longer trial period

Take Control is available in two editions with the higher plan called Take Control Plus. That Plus version includes more team management utilities. SolarWinds offers a 14-day free trial of Take Control.

12. ISL Online

ISL Online dashboard

The ISL Online server can be installed on Windows Server for a one-time fee or accessed as a cloud-based service on a subscription. Both the technician console and the remote device access agent install on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and Windows Mobile. Cross-platform access is not a problem. Subscribers to the cloud service access the technician console through any standard Web browser.

Key Features:

  • Connects to Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux
  • Clone Desktop or remote control
  • Supports multiple simultaneous sessions

Why do we recommend it?

ISL Online creates connections between agents installed on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. The mediating server is based in the cloud but you can also download the server software and host it yourself on Windows Server. The team tools enable credential storage for fast connection and user accounts for technician activity tracking.

Access can be attended or unattended, visible to the user, or behind-the-scenes. Technicians don’t need to enter login credentials for each remote device because AD-based credentials management in ISL Online takes care of that once a technician has logged into a console account. Connections to remote devices are secured by encryption.

The console lists a menu of devices to which the technician can gain access and multiple live sessions can be open simultaneously.

ISL Online Remote Desktop Connection Managers

Who is it recommended for?

This package is useful for in-house support teams and it is also a good option for product support to external customers. The customer can be guided to download the agent from the ISL Online site or sent a download link by email. Managed devices can be started up and bounced remotely.

Pros:

  • Available for on-premise or in the cloud
  • The agent can be installed on Windows, Linux, or Mac
  • Intuitive mobile app for both Android and iOS allows troubleshooting from your phone
  • Supports both attended and unattended access, giving MSPs more options for supporting customers

Cons:

  • Would like to see a longer 30-day trial period

The full version of ISL Online is offered for a 15-day free trial.

Remote Desktop Connection Manager FAQs

What is Remote Desktop Connection Manager?

Microsoft offers a fee system called Remote Desktop Connection Manager (RDCMan), which is part of the Sysinternals suite. However, the general category of remote access software is also known as remote desktop connection managers. This type of service lets someone access the Desktop of a remote computer and either use it as though it were local or control the input system, getting a view on the screen that the user sees.

Is there a replacement for remote desktop connection manager?

Microsoft deprecated Remote Desktop Connection Manager (RDCMan) because of a security flaw. However, now it is back and available for free again. However, if you still need an alternative to RDCMan, try:

  1. DameWare Mini Remote Control
  2. Atera
  3. ManageEngine Remote Access Plus

What is the best free remote desktop manager?

For a free remote desktop connection manager try:

  1. mRemoteNG
  2. Devolutions
  3. AnyDesk (Home Edition)