How can I control another PC remotely?

Being able to control any PC remotely has become a game-changer for professionals, businesses, and tech enthusiasts alike. Whether you're working from home, managing a team, or accessing files while on the go, remote access to computers allows you to stay productive, connected, and in control. With numerous tools available, it’s easier than ever to access and manage a computer from virtually anywhere in the world.

But how do you choose the right remote control software? In this article, we’ll break down three methods for remotely controlling a PC, and guide you on how to get the most out of each solution. Keep reading for a straightforward explanation of each approach!

How to control any pc remotely [3 ways]

There are numerous remote control solutions available, each offering different features. Let’s take a look at the top 3 choices for controlling a PC remotely.

Way 1. Free third-party remote desktop software AnyViewer 

If you're looking for an easy way to access remote devices, consider using remote desktop software. It simplifies the process and makes it easier for users to allow access to their machines. While there are many third-party options, AnyViewer stands out for its top-tier features and functionality.

As a leading remote desktop solution, AnyViewer works across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, providing seamless remote access no matter the device.

Key features of AnyViewer:

• Access unattended devices: You can connect to devices even when they are not in use, perfect for remote work and support.
• Privacy mode: This feature keeps your sessions secure and protects your privacy by blocking unauthorized viewing.
• File sharing: Easily transfer files between devices, making it simpler to work and share documents remotely.
• Unlimited remote sessions: You can have as many remote sessions as you need, giving you flexibility to manage multiple devices.
• Mobile screen mirroring: Mirror your phone’s screen to another device, making it easy to display content remotely.
• True color display: Enjoy high-quality visuals with true-to-life color rendering, ensuring a clear and vivid remote desktop experience.
• Screen wall: View multiple remote devices on a single screen, helping you monitor and manage several devices at once.
• Mass Deployment (MSI): Easily deploy AnyViewer across multiple devices in an organization using MSI files for a streamlined setup.

 

Here's how to control another computer remotely using AnyViewer:

Step 1. Download, install, and launch AnyViewer on both computers. Go to Log in, and then click Sign up to fill in the signup information. (If you already have signed up on its official website, you can log in directly.)

Step 2. Then you can see you successfully logged in to AnyViewer. Your device will automatically be assigned to the account you've logged in to.

Step 3. Log in to the same AnyViewer account on the two devices, then you can achieve a direct connection by clicking One-click control.

★Tips:

AnyViewer offers essential features such as unattended remote access, file transfer, and screen sharing. However, if you're looking for advanced features like high-speed file transfer, role management, and enhanced functionality, it is recommended to upgrade your account to a Professional or Enterprise plan.

Way 2. Built-in Windows Remote Desktop Connection

Your next option is likely the free built-in feature that comes with Microsoft Windows: Remote Desktop Connection (RDC). For security reasons, RDC is disabled by default, but enabling it only takes a few minutes. Once activated, it can be sufficient for many remote access tasks, depending on your needs.

RDC has become one of the most popular free remote control solutions included with Windows, thanks to the following advantages:

• Easy to use: Works seamlessly within your network.
• Cost-effective: Free to use, making it a budget-friendly solution for in-office remote support.
• Simple setup: Quick to set up and use on Windows systems within the local network.

Despite its benefits, RDC has several disadvantages, particularly when compared to more advanced third-party remote desktop software like AnyViewer:

• Limited to local network: Difficult to use for managing devices outside your office network, such as remote workers or multiple offices.
• Configuration required: Setting up remote access involves configuring the network, which may be challenging for non-technical users.
• Windows compatibility: RDC is only available on Windows Pro, Business, or Ultimate editions. Windows 10 Home can connect to other PCs, but it can't be controlled remotely. 
• User visibility: The person on the other end can't see what's happening during the remote session.
• No support for concurrent sessions: You can’t run multiple remote sessions at once.
• No automatic reboot and reconnect: If a remote session is interrupted, you’ll need to manually restart and reconnect.

Here are the detailed steps to connect to any pc remotely via Windows Remote Desktop Connection:

Part 1. Set up the PC You Want to Connect to

Step 1. Make sure your Windows version supports RDP.  To check, go to Control Panel > System and Security > System and look for Windows Edition. If it’s Windows 10 Home, you need to upgrade it to Windows 10 Pro, as Windows 10 Home doesn't support Remote Desktop. 

Step 2. Then select Start > Settings > System > Remote Desktop, and turn on Enable Remote Desktop.

Step 3. On the same page, find How to connect to this PC and remember the PC name below.

Step 4. Press Win + R to invoke the Run dialog box. Type in “cmd” and press OK. Then type “ipconfig” and press Enter. Now you can see a group of IP addresses, of which the IPv4 address is the one you need.

Part 2. Use Remote Desktop to Remotely Access Another Computer You’ve Set up

Step 1. Search for Remote Desktop Connection in the Search box. And then open it.

Step 2. In Remote Desktop Connection, type the IP address and name of the PC you want to connect to in the box (introduced above), and then select Connect.

Way 3. Web-based Chrome Remote Desktop

With Chrome Remote Desktop, you can access files and applications on another computer using either a computer or a mobile device.

On a computer, Chrome Remote Desktop is available through the web. To use remote access on your mobile device, simply download the Chrome Remote Desktop app.

Pros of Chrome Remote Desktop:

• Free: No cost for basic remote access.
• Easy Setup: Simple to set up if you already use Chrome.

Cons of Chrome Remote Desktop:

• No Chat: No built-in messaging; you’ll need a third-party app.
• Requires Chrome: Only works with Google Chrome, and you need a Google account.
• No File Transfer: Can’t drag and drop files between devices.
• No Reboot/Auto-Reconnect: No option to reboot the remote machine or reconnect automatically.
• No Multi-Monitor Support: Displays all monitors in one cramped view.
• No Multi-Session Handling: Can’t handle multiple remote sessions at once.

Here's how to remotely control another computer using Chrome Remote Desktop:

Step 1. On both computers, sign in to the same Google Account if you are not logged in. Then, open the Chrome Remote Desktop web page.

Step 2. Click Remote Access first and then click the blue download button.

Step 3. Click on Add to Chrome to add the Chrome Remote Desktop in your Chrome browser. Click Add extension to confirm the download.

Step 4. Click Accept & Install.

Step 5. Enter a name for your computer and then click Next.

Step 6. Choose a PIN with at least 6 numbers, and then enter it twice to start the program.

Step 7. After both computers have successfully created their PINs, you can see the available computers here on the localcomputer. Click the computer you want to connect to.

Step 8. Enter the PIN of the remote computer, then click the blue arrow. Then you can start to control it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, remote access has become an indispensable tool for staying productive and connected. While there are several options available, AnyViewer stands out as the top choice for its ease of use, cross-platform compatibility, and powerful features like unattended access, file transfer, and high-quality screen mirroring. Whether you’re managing a team, working from home, or accessing files remotely, AnyViewer provides a secure and seamless experience for controlling any PC remotely. For a reliable and feature-rich solution, AnyViewer is the best option to meet all your remote access needs.