4 Best Screen Sharing and Remote Access Software

 Sharing your Windows screen has many benefits. Use these free tools to share screens or gain remote access to another computer.

Do you want to share your Windows screen with a friend or colleague so they can troubleshoot technical issues? Perhaps you want to access your Windows desktop from your tablet to watch a movie in bed?

It's easier than ever to share your desktop, with many free remote access tools available. Here are the best remote screen-sharing tools for Windows.

1. Zoom

To take control of someone else's screen in Zoom, go to View Options > Request Remote Control > Request and wait for the other person to accept.

Zoom is free to download and use up to a maximum of 100 meeting participants. You don't even need to make an account on Zoom to join in, simply enter the meeting code when prompted.

2. TeamViewer

TeamViewer is perhaps the most well-known of all the third-party tools available. It's over 10 years old and has a loyal base of users.

It doesn't just specialize in screen-sharing and remote access. The software also lets users transfer files between connected PCs, conduct web conferences, and make online presentations.

By default, you need to enter a PIN code to connect to someone else's machine. However, if you regularly connect to the same group of computers you can create a group within your account, thus allowing one-click access.

Unlike some of its competitors, the software also allows group sessions. When in a group session, you can easily pass control of a machine between users, rather than only allowing a one-way session.

3. Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop has one glaring drawback—both computers need to have the Chrome browser installed. If you use an alternative browser, you should look elsewhere.

However, if you use Chrome and you're looking for an easy-to-set-up, no-frills remote access tool, you would struggle to find a better option. Google has aimed the software at home users who need to share computer screens for some quick troubleshooting or file access; it lacks the advanced features of some of the other options on this list.

Install the extension from the Chrome Web Store, connect the two PCs using the automatically-generated access code, and you'll be up and running in seconds. You can permanently link together two computers if you need regular access.

Alternatively, you can head to remotedesktop.google.com and make the connection via the web app. The extension has slightly more features, such as an extended list of supported keyboard shortcuts.

Download: Chrome Remote Desktop (Free)

4. Microsoft Remote Desktop

Microsoft Remote Desktop is the native Windows screen-sharing solution. It uses the propriety Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) technology.

Even though Microsoft has built it into the OS, it's not the easiest (or best) option for screen sharing on Windows. Its biggest problem is that RDP servers are only available on Windows Professional and above; you won't be able to connect to anyone who is running the Home version of the operating system.

Beginners might also find the app difficult to set up. If you want to connect to machines outside your home network, you need to know the IP address of the person you want to connect to and configure their router to accept incoming remote desktop connections.

Ultimately, it's important to understand Microsoft Remote Desktop is designed for office use, not home use. If you want to troubleshoot a family member's PC, look elsewhere.