A remote desktop client is a software tool that allows you to connect and control another computer over the internet or an internal network.
Remote desktop clients provide secure and efficient access to computers or servers from remote locations, allowing users to connect to their desktops and access files, applications, and resources as if they were physically present.
Remote desktop clients are used for:
- Technical support
- File transfer
- Screen sharing
- Network monitoring
- Device management
- Remote work scenarios
- Real-time collaboration
RDP clients are available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems to meet a variety of needs, whether you prefer a lightweight or feature-rich application. Some popular RDP clients include Quasar for Windows, Avica for macOS, and Remmina for Linux.
This article will explore the best RDP clients for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, covering both free (mRemoteNG, RustDesk, MobaXterm) and paid (SupRemo, Avica) options.
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mRemoteNG
mRemoteNG is an open-source RDP client that supports multiple protocols such as VNC, SSH, Telnet, and more. It allows users to organize their remote connections in a tabbed interface, making it easy to switch between different sessions.
mRemoteNG provides features such as credential management, session window thumbnails, and connection restrictions for improved security. It offers keyboard shortcuts and themes for a better user experience. This RDP client uses panels and tabs to help you stay organized and create a customizable view of your tasks.
mRemoteNG offers a Port Scan feature, similar to Nmap, to scan IP addresses and check active protocols. The notification panel displays connection errors and lost connection information. Additionally, there is a connect option that allows you to quickly connect to a remote host using various network protocols. You can export/import connections and securely transfer files using SCP or SFTP via SSH. You can also launch some external tools to get things done more efficiently.
SupRemo
SupRemo is a versatile and cost-effective RDP client that allows remote control of computers and servers. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux (via Wine), as well as Android and iOS. This RDP client is free for non-professional use, easy to use, and requires no installation. Users can download it from the website and launch the file to get started.
To establish a connection, open the SupRemo RDP client on your device and enter the identification code and password displayed on the controller device in your software interface to take control. Running SupRemo as a service is especially useful as it allows you to connect to remote PCs even when no one is physically present.
SupRemo offers a range of features tailored for companies and professionals, including customization of the software interface with a logo, a free unlimited Address Book for contacts, and secure data transmission through an encrypted TLS 1.2 connection protocol.
The subscription plans for SupRemo are affordable and flexible, based on the maximum number of simultaneous connections needed. Each license allows for unlimited use on multiple PCs and can be purchased quarterly or annually. Visit SupRemo’s website for more information and to download their RDP client for free. No email or credit card information is necessary.
RustDesk
RustDesk is a customizable and secure RDP client that is perfect for individuals and small businesses. It offers a clean and intuitive interface, making it easy for users to connect to remote machines with just a few clicks. It supports multiple simultaneous connections, making it a great option for users who need to manage multiple remote machines at once.
RustDesk offers options to use their relay/rendezvous server and set up or manage everything on your own. It provides the latest TLS 1.3 end-to-end encryption technology to protect your desktop from unauthorized access.
RustDesk offers server-side relay and ID server programs that are simple to install without requiring complex configuration. It’s easy to set up relay/ID server addresses on the client side. You can transfer files between desktops using the in-built file manager. Additionally, set up TCP tunneling and initiate RDP connections with just a single click.
Avica
Avica is a secure and user-friendly RDP client that offers a wide range of features for both individuals and businesses. This RDP client offers safe access to IT systems anytime from anywhere while also providing multiple simultaneous connections, including in 4K resolution with 4:4:4 color and multi-monitor support – perfect for designers, engineers, or gamers.
One of Avica’s standout features is its support for remote printing, which allows users to print documents from a remote machine to a local printer.
Avica ensures immersive gameplay with high-quality graphics and smooth performance every time you play. It enables multiplayer gaming anywhere as it supports multiple controllers connection to one device.
Avira offers several features for easy connectivity, monitoring, control, and file transfer. It uses an advanced transfer protocol for quick connections and supports copy-paste functionality between devices. Additionally, it allows for multiple virtual screens on remote devices and the ability to view or stream several displays from one primary screen while blacking out others to prevent viewing work.
Avica is compatible with Windows, MAC, Android, and iOS operating systems. The basic version is free for one user, with paid Pro and Enterprise versions available.
FreeRDP
FreeRDP is an open-source RDP client that is known for its speed and performance. It is highly customizable, allowing users to fine-tune their remote desktop experience to suit their specific needs. It also supports a wide range of platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it a versatile option for users who work across multiple operating systems.
This way, FreeRDP lets you strive in a world of interoperability and feel a liberating computing experience.
Quasar
Quasar is a Windows-based RDP client that makes it easy to connect to remote machines and manage multiple connections simultaneously. It supports multiple protocols like RDP, VNC, SSH, and Telnet for remote access. Its features include a TCP network stream with support for IPv4 and IPv6, as well as TLS-encrypted and high-speed network serialization.
Quasar provides advanced features, such as file transfer, remote printing, session recording, and a variety of management capabilities, including task management, UPnP support, startup management, remote shell, and remote execution. Other features include a registry editor, keylogger, system power commands like shutdown, restart, and standby, reverse proxy, password recovery, and more, making Quasar a popular choice among IT professionals.
Quasar is compatible with the .NET framework (4.5.2 or higher) and various operating systems such as Windows 10, 8, 8.1, Server 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2019.
Royal TS
Royal TS is a powerful RDP client that is known for its extensive customization options. It allows users to create customized connections with specific settings and configurations, making it easy to manage a large number of remote connections.
Royal TS supports various protocols, including RDP, VNC, SSH, and more, making it a versatile tool for remote access. It offers features such as credential management, automation scripting, and remote session recording, making it a robust RDP client for IT professionals.
Royal TS offers secure team-sharing features, in-built credential management, and the Key Sequence Task and Command Task for automating repetitive tasks.
You can import data dynamically from external sources to the Dynamic Folders. You will get connections such as a remote desktop based on Microsoft RDP ActiveX control, terminals like Rebex.net and PuTTY-based telnet and SSH, VNC based on UltraVNC and TightVNC, and Chrome and Internet Explorer-based web.
Royal TS allows you to monitor real-time performance, connect and manage VMware and Hyper-V Instances, and analyze Windows events. Additionally, you can transfer your files using SFTP, SCP, and FTP, as well as use TeamViewer to connect and manage sessions.
Royal TS lets you store your personal credentials in a private doc protected by a password and share other details needed within the team. Work your way with the customizable workspace, including ribbon commands, connection tabs, and dock panels.
MobaXterm
MobaXterm is a lightweight RDP client that offers an enhanced terminal for Windows with a tabbed SSH client, network tools, an X11 server, and more. It offers features such as file transfer, remote command execution, and session recording, making it a versatile tool for IT professionals and power users.
MobaXterm provides a tabbed interface that allows users to manage multiple remote connections simultaneously. It offers crucial network tools such as X11, SSH, MOSH, VNC, FTP, RDP, and Unix commands such as cat, Is, bash, grep, rsync, sed, etc.
MobaXterm has developed an intuitive user interface to efficiently access remote servers through various systems or networks. You can configure an Xserver to display remote applications on a Windows desktop. By exporting DISPLAY from Unix to local Windows, you can enhance MobaXterm’s capabilities with plugins and add-ons.
MobaXterm offers a range of features, including a graphical SFTP browser, multi-execution capabilities, embedded servers and tools, SSH gateway, SSH tunnels, package manager, text editor, macros support, password management, syntax highlighting in the terminal, and professional customization options.
Remmina
Remmina is a simple and lightweight RDP client that is ideal for users who need basic remote access capabilities. It offers features such as a tabbed interface, credential management, and quick connection profiles, making it a user-friendly RDP client for beginners.
Remmina allows for screen sharing, file sharing, and other features. You can easily configure the application with a double click, and it will remember your last view mode. Features include keystrokes, screenshot options, toolbar visibility, and more. You can configure full-screen behavior and tabs to prevent screenshots.
Remmina offers various host key configurations such as auto-fit window, switch tab pages, grab keyboard, toggle fullscreen mode, and toggle scaled mode. Users can integrate different plugins like RDP, VNC, SSH, SFTP, SPICE, EXEC, NX, Simple Terminal, and XDMCP to enhance the application’s functionality. These plugins provide additional features like setting usernames and passwords and maintaining quality, security, sound, and domain settings.
Users can also configure a remote desktop gateway server, username, password, and domain, along with startup path, client name, startup program, load balance info, and more. Moreover, you can access the SSH session log folder, file name, and proxy command. Remmina introduces kiosk mode and other features to let you work with ease. Install the application that gives you the whole package of features, starting from access to security and performance.
How Does a Remote Desktop Client Work?
To establish remote access, the host computer needs specific software installed, which can be located anywhere in the world. The client computer, with the right authorization and credentials, connects to and manages the host. The host computer runs the remote desktop client, and its operating system shows the screen on the client’s computer. The software captures keyboard and mouse inputs from the client and transmits them to the host.
Don’t confuse remote desktop clients withremote desktop software
Benefits of Remote Desktop Client
Remote desktop clients have become increasingly important in the post-COVID world, where businesses run remotely. Here are some of the benefits of this software:
Works remotely
Remote desktop clients offer a convenient and secure way to access your computer and work remotely. You don’t need any additional hardware to make the connection; just an internet connection is enough.
Simplicity
RDP clients offer a straightforward way for IT teams to run updates, patches, diagnostics, fix issues, etc. This way, they don’t have to travel all the way to users’ offices or homes.
Reduction in capital cost
The software helps reduce a company’s capital costs on hardware or overhead charges towards IT departments. Software updates, security, performance, etc., are taken care of by the company providing the remote desktop software. Plus, you can always save on traveling as everything is online.
Performance and security
Choosing a good remote desktop client lets you improve your security and IT performance. You can troubleshoot issues quickly before they cause damage and optimize your device’s health so it can perform optimally. In addition, it helps increase employee productivity and enables them to work seamlessly without frequent disturbances.
Final Words
The remote work culture is flourishing these days, and technologies related to it are booming, such as remote desktop clients. Thus, choose any one of the software mentioned above based on your needs to perform quick fixes and avail of other benefits with high performance and security no matter what device you want to access from which location.
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