Summary
When you’re not at home, your trusted laptop or desktop computer doesn’t have to be out of reach. If you’re often on the go and don’t want to carry about your MacBook or ChromeBook, there’s a simpler method to use these web-connected devices—all you need is a smartphone!
We are discussing remote desktop access here. Though it’s been around for a while, this very basic technology—which allows you to communicate with a virtualized version of your PC—keeps getting better every year. Having said that, in order to guarantee that this mobile mirroring functions well, there are certain tools and procedures you must adhere to.
Let’s continue step by step. We have the knowledge to show you how to get into your home computer.
Remote Desktop for Chrome
One of the simplest and most straightforward methods to mirror your desktop to your phone is via Chrome Remote Desktop, which also offers complete control—including sound.
The software can really access everything on your computer as if you were sitting in front of it, including file browsers, administrative tools, and whatever else you choose, despite the term “Chrome.” Even on mobile networks, connecting to your PCs is simple using Google’s UI. You may access the extension from other laptop or desktop operating systems by installing it in the Chrome browser on your desktop.
Step 1: Launch Chrome (or any other browser based on Chromium). After confirming that you are signed into your Google account, go to the Chrome Remote Desktop website and choose “Access my computer.”
Step 2: Click the blue button next to “Set up remote access” with the arrow. Choose Add to Chrome and accept the window that asks to add the extension when you go to the Chrome extension page.
Click the blue arrow button to start the Remote Desktop application, if needed.
Step 3: Click the blue Next button after naming your system.
Step 4: Choose the blue Next button and enter a pin code that you can recall. Then, your computer ought to appear as Online under the list of accessible remote desktops.
Step 5: Using your smartphone, install and launch the Chrome Remote Desktop app or go to the Chrome Remote Desktop website.
Step 6: Choose the name of the computer you want to establish a remote connection with. After entering your pin, click the blue arrow button to proceed.
Step 7: At that point, you ought to be able to operate your PC remotely using your phone. Now, you may drag and touch the screen to move the mouse around. Left-clicks may be performed with taps, and your phone can also hear any sound that comes through your desktop.
Other methods for accessing your desktop remotely
There are other options for remotely accessing your PC, even though we prefer Google’s Chrome Remote Desktop tool for its simplicity of use and compatibility with almost any PC because of its web app option. Here are a few excellent alternatives to think about:
Windows Remote Desktop: Microsoft’s proprietary remote desktop program should be recognizable to long-time Windows users. It’s available on Android, iOS, and other platforms, but it can only connect to Windows computers (and even then, only “Professional” versions of Windows or greater). Professionals who often travel may find it helpful that you may use the program to securely access a Windows Virtual Desktop.
TightVNC: Long before smartphones were popular, developers and power users used the VNC protocol for remote access. Many clients, some commercial and others free, are available for computers and cellphones due to the open source nature of the original concept. Finding solutions that are adaptable and simple to use in a range of circumstances is crucial. Although RealVNC may be a better option for Mac users, TightVNC is still an excellent tool for Windows users.
RemoteMouse: RemoteMouse is a little application that allows you to remotely control your computer. In a novel twist, you can use the physical buttons on your phone to alter the volume on your PC or flip between slides in a presentation. You can even utilize your phone’s gyroscope for motion controls. Your phone becomes a remote… mouse thanks to it.
Unified Remote: This is a well-liked alternative for operating your PC remotely. It’s excellent for HTPC settings adjustment since it provides instant access to media controls. It’s quite useful if you have a HTPC in a different room since it allows you to wake your PC using Wake on Lan as well.
Is it possible to get access to a shut-down computer remotely?
You need to have your computer switched on in order to utilize remote desktop programs. In fact, we would advise turning off any hibernation or sleep modes if you plan to be away from your computer for an extended period of time—more than a day. Your remote desktop program may not function properly if your computer goes into one of these incubation phases.
Wake-on-LAN is an option that is limited to usage with an Ethernet connection between your computer and the internet.
What disadvantages do remote desktop programs have?
Although using remote desktop software is quite handy, there are some disadvantages, the most significant of which is the quality of your internet connection. Your smartphone or tablet must also be linked to the internet, in addition to your desktop computer at home. Therefore, you can be up the creek if you’re in a location with intermittent public Wi-Fi or poor phone service.
Another major worry is overall security. Any gadget having access to your home computer’s IP address or that is linked to it might be a threat to your personal information. Making ensuring you’re utilizing password-protected networks is the greatest defense against something similar occurring.
Additionally, if you are able to, you should consider cleaning the cache of any remote desktop applications that are installed on your mobile device.
Are there any Mac-compatible remote desktop applications?
Windows computers are not the only devices that can access remote desktops. The majority of the items listed in the “alternatives” section above work with both Mac and Linux systems.
Apple Remote Desktop is a specific remote desktop application designed for macOS. You may see different results with this program, however, given that it isn’t free and some users have complained about glitches and other issues.
