Top 10 Open-Source Remote Desktop Software Solutions in 2024

Open source remote desktop software has become an important asset in today's digital landscape. These tools have transformed the way we interact with computers remotely. Connecting, controlling, and collaborating across great distances has never been easier.

Following is your complete guide to these open-source remote desktop software solutions you need in 2024. Learn how to use these tools to redefine accessibility for your workflow.

Part 1: Defining An Open Source Remote Desktop Software

Open-source remote desktop software are computer program designed to allow users remote access to computers. The software enables the access and control of one computer from another. Remote desktop connection is designed so that users do not have to be physically present in front of a computer to use it.

The open-source nature of these software means that their source code is freely available to the public. This allows people to view and modify the code according to their requirements. The open-source license allows the software to be easily distributed in the public domain.

Open-source remote access can be used for a variety of purposes. It enables users to interact with a computer as if they were sitting in front of it. Files and data can be accessed and transferred easily using these tools. Other applications of this technology include remote collaboration, technical support, virtual training, and more.

Note: Open-source software is developed by a community of contributors, and not all development activities may undergo rigorous security audits. This can lead to potential security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. If you have concerns about the security of remote access, then we recommend you try non-open source remote desktop software, please check the Tips section of this article.

Part 2: Top 10 Best Open Source Remote Desktop Software in 2024

Are you searching for the best open-source remote desktop software? Here are 10 tools that can prove helpful in providing you remote access to desktops.

1. RustDesk

RustDesk is a feature-packed software that can be an efficient open-source RDP tool. The tool offers minimal configuration on almost all major platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and the web. You can display and control your devices from anywhere using RustDesk. Users can have full control over their data without any security concerns.

Advantages

• RustDesk offers remote file transfers on all connected devices and platforms. You can easily share data across multiple remotely connected devices.
• The tool offers cross-platform support across various devices. Users can access their devices on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and web-based platforms.
• RustDesk also allows display support for multiple monitors. This means you can connect and access multiple devices at the same time.

Disadvantage

•  The tool is not 100% open-source. The customization choices are minimal on RustDesk, which can cause a nuisance.

2. TightVNC

Another free and open-source remote access software you can try is TightVNC. This tool effectively establishes remote connections between devices across a LAN. TightVNC uses virtual network computing to connect, allowing users to access their computers from a remote device. 

Advantages

• TightVNC offers various customizable display options to users. You can easily alter color depths, screen resolutions, and other features.
• Multiple users can view and control the server at the same time. This allows effective collaboration across teams.
• Users can take advantage of this tool and utilize it for their personal or commercial needs without thinking of the costs, as it is entirely free.

Disadvantage

• TightVNC does not offer any built-in encryption. This can impact the integrity of your data and information.

3. RPort

A fast and easy way to connect multiple desktops remotely is using RPort. This competent open-source RDP tool offers compatibility with various popular platforms. RPort allows a straightforward setup and can be used to manage servers efficiently. You can set up a centralized console to handle all your devices easily.

Advantages

• RPort supports access to a wide variety of devices. Using the tool, you can control IoT devices, routers, printers, and other devices.
• The software uses AES encryption and secure authentication. This protects users’ data and sensitive information, making it a secure option.
• RPort also offers built-in chat support. Users can thus communicate between devices easily using the app.

Disadvantage

• There is no in-built network monitoring or management feature on RPort. Users might have to install a separate tool to access this feature.

4. Apache Guacamole

Apache Guacamole is one of the best open source remote access desktop solutions currently available. The tool allows users to access multiple systems remotely via their devices. Apache Guacamole offers an intuitive interface to users, which is capable of adapting to a variety of platforms and protocols. Since no plugins or installation is required, the tool does not require a client.

Advantages

• This open-source software offers integration with HTML5. This allows users to access their remote devices via web browsers.
• Apache Guacamole has strong security features. Its SSL encryptions and two-factor authentication make your data secure.
• The web-based tool comes loaded with useful features such as remote collaboration and user management.

Disadvantage

• The interface of Apache Guacamole is quite complex. Beginner users with minimal experience may face difficulty navigating the software.

5. UltraVNC

Another open-source remote desktop for Windows computers is UltraVNC. This tool also uses virtual network computing (VNC) to provide remote device access. You can connect your devices over the internet or a VNC server. From effective communications to transferring files, UltraVNC allows it all.

Advantages

• UltraVNC allows support for multiple remote sessions simultaneously. You can share multiple screens at one time to boost efficiency.
• The tool provides full remote access to the connected device. You can even reboot the device or reconnect the server remotely.
• UltraVNC offers easy dual installation, which gives you the option to install both the server and viewer files on your device.

Disadvantage

• It is primarily designed for the Windows platform and does not support other OS such as Mac or Linux.

6. FreeRDP

FreeRDP is a free, open-source remote desktop software that was originally released under the Apache license. It is an implementation of the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) that enables users the freedom to operate their devices remotely. FreeRDP provides an easy-to-use yet efficient management system for their devices.

Advantages

• The tool offers extensive support for remote printing. Users can also listen to audio files stored on the connected computers using FreeRDP.
• It is one of the best choices when it comes to dynamic resolutions. FreeRDP provides lively visuals of the connected device.
• FreeRDP offers cross-platform support. You can easily use the tool on Windows, Mac, Linux, and other platforms.

Disadvantage

• Some technical knowledge is required to install and configure FreeRDP properly. This makes the tool difficult to use for novice users.

7. X2Go

Another great open source RDP client solution that provides open-source documentation is X2Go. This tool can be used to access a graphical desktop of a computer over a remote connection. Users can connect their devices over both low and high-bandwidth connections. You can easily streamline your workflow using its useful features.

Advantages

• X2Go offers printer sharing from its client-to-server connection. Users can also access sounds stored on the connected devices.
• The tool uses SSH to tunnel the traffic securely. This ensures that data security and integrity are maintained during the connection.
• You can terminate or resume remote connections easily using X2Go, even from another client or device.

Disadvantage

• The tool only supports access to a single server at one time. Thus, you cannot access more than one device remotely using X2Go.

8. Remmina

An affordable and efficient solution to remotely access desktop devices is Remmina. This open-source software supports different protocols to make your devices remotely accessible. You can use Remmina on various platforms and operating systems. It also provides enhanced security using authentications and encryptions.

Advantages

• Remmina supports multiple remote desktop protocols. These include RDP, SSH, NX, and other popular protocols.
• The tool allows users to adjust the quality of the connection manually. You can tweak the bandwidth to change the speed of your connection.
• For easy organization of the devices, you can organize your connected profiles into groups on Remmina.

Disadvantage

• The tool does not support certain advanced features commonly found in other open-source RDP tools, such as file transfer.

9. DWService

If you want to access a device remotely using only a web browser, you can try DWService. This open-source remote access software is an advanced tool designed to help you connect multiple devices simultaneously. DWService allows users to share all kinds of data without publishing it on other servers.

Advantages

• DWService offers two-factor authentication and end-to-end encryption. These features allow enhanced security over your data and files on the remote connection.
• The platform offers an intuitive interface. Users can easily set up the software and make use of its toolset.
• You can authorize the operations that each viewer is allowed before sharing your files. You can choose from read-only, edit, download, upload, and other options.

Disadvantage

• DWService relies heavily on a stable internet connection. A slow connection speed can significantly impact the functionality of the tool.

10. TigerVNC

Another implementation of the VNC protocol that helps users with remote access to desktops is TigerVNC. This open-source software uses a client and server-based application to allow users to interact with graphical applications on remote devices. The tool can be operated on various platforms to connect devices with ease.

Advantages

• TigerVNC offers a high-performance output. The speed of the connection using the tool is commendable.
• To save bandwidth, you can manually change the color depth and data compression rate on TigerVNC.
• The tool uses advanced authentication methods and TLS encryption to protect your data and information.

Disadvantage

• Although TigerVNC supports Windows and Linux OS, it does not offer integration for Mac devices.

Tips: A Safer, Easier, and Free Remote Desktop App

Although open-source remote desktop tools can provide remote access quickly and easily, they have their fair share of drawbacks. Since the source code is publicly accessible, it is open to scrutiny. Thus, security vulnerabilities in the system can easily be identified. Some programs also rely on other open-source libraries. The quality and security of these tools can vary widely.

To tackle these issues, switching to a safer and more reliable option is recommended. If you are looking for the best remote desktop software without these demerits, the answer lies in Avica Remote Desktop.

Avica is a safe and easy-to-use software that enables remote access to devices. This free tool lets you control and manage your devices from anywhere in the world. The strong encryptions on Avica allow users to handle important data securely. You can use its real-time collaboration features to boost your workflow significantly.

Simplified Step-by-Step Guide to Use Avica for Remote Desktop Access

You can easily download Avica software by clicking the button provided below. For more detailed information regarding Avica App downloads, please visit the official Avica download page. It is important to note that Avica ensures the safety and virus-free nature of all products available on its official website or app store. Feel confident in downloading Avica from these trusted sources.

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Step 1: Install and Launch Avica App

Download and install Avica on the desktops you want to connect. Use your email address to sign up for the tool. 

Step 2: Connect Your Desktop

Click on the computer icon from the left panel to see the "Avica ID" and password of your device. Once you have obtained your Avica ID, ensure you have enabled remote access to your device. On your other desktop, type in your Avica ID. Tap the “Connect” button to connect your devices.

Step 3: Start and Terminate the Session

You can now remotely use your device on the emerging window. Options from the top toolbar allow you to customize various aspects, such as the resolution. To terminate the remote session, click the red disconnect icon at the top-right corner. To remove a device from connecting ever again, navigate to the “My Devices” section. Click on the menu icon next to the device and tap “Remove.”

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Conclusion

The importance of open-source remote desktop tools is undeniable in today’s age. These software have provided a range of benefits in this ever-changing digital world and come with various drawbacks related to security and privacy. However, tools such as Avica are the pinnacle of effortless remote desktop access. By harnessing its potential, users can surpass physical boundaries and bridge geographical gaps in workflows.