Remote PC Access Software: Our Top Picks for Small Businesses

Update: This page has been updated to include information on a new court ruling that may impact the cost of remote PC access software.

With such a wide selection of remote PC access software options on the market, determining which one is best for your business can be challenging. We researched and analyzed dozens of applications. Below are our recommendations – the application we feel is best for small businesses, the easiest software program to implement, the best remote access software for Macs and the program we recommend for cross-platform access. In addition to our recommendations, we compiled a list of remote PC access software providers if our recommendations don't fit your needs. 

Whether you are looking for the best solution for your IT department, a way to remote into client computers, or even just a simple solution for telecommuting, there is a remote PC access software platform available for you. 

Some remote control software caters to general small business needs, while others are focused on specific niche markets like cross-platform or international access. Below you can learn more about the similar and unique features each application has.

Businesses use remote access software for several reasons. The simplest scenario is to support remote or traveling workers. With the software, remote workers can access their office desktop device, transfer files between devices and collaborate with co-workers. Features like wake-on-LAN, session recording and remote printing can be especially useful for remote workers.  

IT departments also use this software to help with tech support, troubleshooting, mass deployments and file implementation. It can be beneficial for your business to have an IT technician who can remotely access employee and customer devices to resolve technical issues. Features like grouping, cross-platform access and high-end security measures are important to consider for this type of access and control. Although many remote PC access software companies offer plans specifically for IT solutions, some companies package these capabilities with their multiuse remote control plans. 

Another convenient use for remote PC access software is accessing client devices. This is useful for conducting training demos, hosting classes or group projects, and interacting with clients. Features like file transfer options, communication tools and personalized branding can be especially convenient for this type of remote access.  

Depending on how you plan to use this type of software, whether as a solution for your IT team or to remotely log in to a PC while you (or your employees) are out of the office, some features are going to be more imperative than others. In general, though, these are the functions you want to make sure a remote PC access software program has: 

• Quick and convenient installation options
• Cross-platform access to connect any type of device
• The ability to integrate with other platforms and software
• High-end security measures
• Session scheduling, recording, reporting and management
• Monitor grouping, control exchange and mass deployment
• File-sharing and file-access capabilities
• Collaboration and communication tools
• Scalability to support business growth
• Personalized branding for unique customer experiences
• Knowledgeable resources and customer support  

In terms of pricing, some companies offer all-inclusive plans and charge a flat fee, while others charge per user. For most plans, users are limited in how many computers they can access. Advanced or pro versions often support access to more users, computers and concurrent sessions. Some plans are free for a basic personal or commercial package. If you're looking for an enterprise remote access solution, though, you'll need to contact the sales department for a price quote. Many companies charge on an annual basis; some offer the option of paying monthly, but the rate is typically higher if you pay monthly rather than annually. 

February 2020: You should also keep in mind that sales tax may apply to your remote PC access subscription as well. A recent Massachusetts court ruling stated that some remote access subscriptions are categorized as more than "just services," so the Department of Revenue taxes them. When determining the total cost of your remote access software, factor in potential sales tax for the specific software you want to use. Whether or not you live in Massachusetts, where this new ruling applies, you should be aware of whether your state charges sales tax on this software when determining your final cost.