Gaining remote access to a computer used to be a complex and lengthy process involving expensive software and a high probability of failure. It was unwieldy for remote support and unsustainable for working remotely.
Fortunately, more convenient, free and secure tools now exist, and one of the best is Google’s Chrome Remote Desktop. We’ll explore Chrome Remote Desktop, how it works, and how to install and use the tool.
Chrome Remote Desktop works with Windows, Mac, Chromebook and Linux, and Android and iOS mobile operating systems.
Chrome Remote Desktop is remote desktop software that allows you to remotely control another computer from any computer running Windows, macOS or Linux. Additionally, you can use an iOS or Android mobile device to access a computer remotely.
To use Chrome Remote Desktop, you’ll need to first install the web app on the “host” computer, for example your work computer. On another computer, such as your home laptop or a secure business laptop, you’ll use Chrome Remote Desktop to access the host computer. Or, you can download the Chrome Remote Desktop iOS or Android app to access the host computer.
One of Chrome Remote Desktop’s best features is its easy installation. After installing the software, you can set up your host machine for both remote access and support.
1. Navigate to the Chrome Web Store and search for Chrome Remote Desktop.
2. Select Chrome Remote Desktop from the search results.
4. Select Add Extension to confirm. You may also be prompted to install the web app, which offers more control.
After installing Chrome Remote Desktop, you can set it up to share your computer or access another computer. This is the function you’ll set up if you want to access your work computer from home or while traveling.
1. Launch the extension and select the Remote Access tab. Under Set up Remote Access, click Turn On.
2. Name your computer and click Next.
3. Enter a PIN of at least six digits and select Start.
4. Enter an admin password if prompted, and grant Chrome Remote Desktop permission to access your computer. You may also need to make changes in your Preferences. Once you’ve set it up, you can access your computer from another device using your PIN, which will come in handy when you’re working from home or traveling. Your PIN remains the same unless you change it.
Chrome Remote Desktop’s other primary function is remote support. Setting up remote support allows you to:
Here’s how to set up remote support:
1. On the main Chrome Remote Desktop screen, select the Remote Support tab.
2. To let someone else access the computer for remote support, go to the Share this screen box and select Generate Code. Unlike PINs, codes are for one-time use.
3. Share the generated code with the person you want to allow access, such as someone in your IT department. After they enter your access code, you’ll see a dialog with their email address. Click Share to give them access to your computer.
4. Select Stop Sharing to end a connected session.
5. If you’re the person supporting or troubleshooting another computer, have the other user generate a code on their computer. Then, go to the Connect to another computer box, enter the code, and click Connect.
6. Once the other user clicks Share to confirm your access permission, you can control the computer as if you were in front of it. To end the sharing session, close the tab or select Options, then Disconnect.
Chrome Remote Desktop makes it possible to access your work computer via your mobile device. This function is intended to help you access your software and files rather than provide remote troubleshooting assistance.
Follow these steps using your iOS or Android device:
1. Download the Chrome Remote Desktop app for iOS or install Chrome Remote Desktop from the Google Play Store.
2. Launch the app and sign in if prompted.
3. Select the computer you set up for remote sharing and enter its PIN. You’ll see your remote computer’s screen.
4. The app defaults to a touch interface with pinch-to-zoom and tapping options. Enable cursor mode for more control and use the keyboard for text entry. With a modern, high-resolution smartphone or tablet, it’s surprisingly easy to navigate.
Chrome Remote Desktop for mobile is an excellent remote working tool, helpful for quickly accomplishing a task or accessing a file you forgot.
While remote desktop software comes with inherent risks, Chrome Remote Desktop is safe and secure. Its remote sessions use AES computer encryption through a secure SSL connection, protecting your data while you remotely access your computer.
Additionally, when granting access to Chrome Remote Desktop, you’ll generate a one-time access code and provide it to the other user.
While Chrome Remote Desktop is secure, your data’s privacy is only as strong as your cybersecurity practices. If you fail to use data security software, don’t create strong passwords or reuse PINs, your data will be vulnerable to cybercriminals.
Encryption is crucial if your business collects data that includes personally identifiable information like names, birthdates and Social Security numbers. You could be sued if this information is stolen, leaked or shared.
To help you decide whether Chrome Remote Desktop is a viable option for your business, here are some key upsides and disadvantages of this remote access tool.
If your business needs a more robust remote PC access solution with chat and drag-and-drop transfer, check out our reviews of the best remote PC access software to find a solution that fits your needs.
Chrome Remote Desktop can be valuable for providing IT support to employees or accessing your work computer while working from home. To further protect your data, be sure to end your session and close the application when you’ve finished using the program. This way, you prevent unwanted parties from accessing your other device and its files.
Sean Peek and Sean Riley contributed to the writing and reporting in this article.