Apart from chat, Calls, file transfers, and so on, screen screening has become one of the most important features in today's world. Prior to the pandemic, screen sharing software had fixed users, while others relied on the free version, particularly the Discord screen share feature, whenever a need arose, but the pandemic ushered in a shift in work culture, with office teams becoming remote. As a result, it has become necessary or compelled for remote teams to use screen-sharing tools. Therefore, numerous users all around the world began to utilize TeamViewer, UltraVNC, Troop Messenger, Microsoft Teams, AnyDesk, and other similar programs.

To check the tools that are solely known for screen sharing, we'll leave Troop Messenger, Microsoft Teams, and other complete team collaboration tools out of the article.

TeamViewer

The word 'TeamViewer' has become associated with screen sharing, illustrating the utility of the service. TeamViewer is a widely used program that provides users with a wide range of capabilities in a simple-to-use interface. TeamViewer is proprietary software, and users can opt for a free plan for non-commercial usage without registering on the platform. It is said that TeamViewer is downloaded and installed on over two billion devices.

All major operating systems, including iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, Raspberry Pi, and others, are supported by this utility. Remote users can use this application to simply start screen sharing, remote access, and other services.

AES session encryption is a TeamViewer security feature that adds a layer of protection. It also employs a two-step security mechanism to ensure the security of its sessions. Screen sharing is very secure and adheres to HIPAA and SOC2 standards.

Pros

  • The user's whole desktop, program window, and screens can be shared.

  • It allows team members to conduct simultaneous online training sessions for up to 25 participants.

  • It supports online storage services such as Google Drive, OneDrive, and others, and offers a drag-and-drop feature for transferring data from one system to another.

  • For remote printing, remote chatting, and wake-on-LAN, it works without any extra configurations.

Cons

  • Huge files can't be shared.

  • Only after a system is turned on and ready to use can it be accessed.

  • It requires a steady and fast internet connection to function.

  • Proxy servers are incompatible with it.

  • It will not work unless TeamViewer is installed on every PC with the same version.

Ultra VNC

UltraVNC is a free and open-source remote-administration/remote-desktop program. It makes use of the VNC protocol to remotely control and access another computer over a network connection.

UltraVNC allows users to interact with a distant computer seamlessly. It has a lot in common with RealVNC Free Edition. It does, however, include additional capabilities, such as an encryption plugin to safeguard the client/server connection, in addition to the remote control. Chat, file exchange, and other authentication mechanisms are also supported. The two computers should be capable of communicating over a network, such as with a local subnet, an intranet, or the Internet. The software is free and open-source, and it is distributed under the General Public License (GNU).

It can use an optional mirror driver, which must be installed on the remotely controlled computer, to provide timely and easy notification of screen changes while consuming very little CPU power, though this is no longer required with Windows 10.

Pros

  • User-friendly tool.

  • The RFB protocol is used in every VNC flavor.

  • UltraVNC is extremely easy to set up and configure.

  • Compatible with multiple platforms.

Cons

  • You’ve to bear with random delays.

  • Chat functionality is not proficient compared to its contemporaries.

  • Users may have to face high latency issues.

  • To meet today's demand, this tool should include more functions.

AnyDesk

Given its loyal customer base, AnyDesk is one of the best TeamViewer alternatives. It's similar to TeamViewer in that it enables users to remotely access, control, and manage any desktop they want, and it works with all major operating systems. Any Desk does not have time limits or pop-up timers, unlike many other free remote access solutions that do. There's also no need to register or reveal any personal information.

AnyDesk's infrastructure ensures that remote connections are secure. TLS 1.2 encryption and an RSA 2048 asymmetric key are used to protect each session.

Pros

  • AnyDesk Android, AnyDesk for MacOS, and AnyDesk for Windows are all versions of the AnyDesk app that have been adapted for mobile platforms.

  • It features file transmission and remote printing, as well as a presentation whiteboard on the screen.

  • The AnyDesk on-premise solution can be integrated into other apps.

  • Unlike many other free remote access solutions that have a session limit, Any Desk has no time limits or pop-up timers.

  • You don’t have to provide any personal information to get registered.

  • With an installation file of only 1.1 MB, it is one of the smallest remote access options on the market.

Cons

  • Adjustments to the remote desktop's resolution may not always work properly.

  • Users may experience little slowness in unexpected scenarios.

  • If users need to make changes or access system files, they must install the software on their local PC. Browsers are not allowed to access system files due to security concerns.

  • Many remote users were unable to copy text from other computers and paste it onto their own devices, which might be problematic. The flaw has been fixed in the most recent version, according to reports.

Conclusion

Numerous tools are available for multiple applications in today's digital world; however, this does not mean that you must spend your productive time switching between multiple UIs daily. As a result, if you're searching for remote access tools, any of the above options will serve; but, if you're looking for business or office purposes, the above options may be required to put a strain on your budget; therefore, it's best to use complete team collaboration tools.