Remote desktop software makes it easy to work, study, and provide support from anywhere, but it also introduces serious security risks if not properly protected. Strong encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and secure protocols like TLS 1.2 are essential to keep remote sessions private and prevent unauthorized access.

Now, choosing secure remote desktop software is more important than ever. In this article, we review five of the best secure remote desktop options, including trusted products and a standout newcomer, DeskIn, offering a powerful balance of security, performance, and value.

Click here to download DeskIn

Top 10 Remote Desktop Software Options For 2025 [Review]

Overview: What Makes the Most Secure Remote Desktop

Understanding the key security features is critical when choosing a remote desktop solution. Truly secure remote desktop software should implement multiple layers of protection to safeguard your data and sessions. Here are the essential factors that define secure remote access.

256-bit AES Encryption: Encryption is the foundation of remote desktop security. Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with 256-bit keys ensures that all data transmitted between devices remains private and is virtually impossible for attackers to decrypt.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adding a second layer of verification significantly strengthens account security. 2FA typically requires a password plus a code sent to a trusted device, reducing the risk of unauthorized access even if login credentials are compromised.
Secure Protocols (like TLS 1.2): Secure communication protocols, such as Transport Layer Security (TLS) 1.2 or higher, protect data from interception during transmission. It ensures that the connection between client and server remains confidential and tamper-proof.
Firewall Configuration and Strong Password Policies: Proper firewall settings help control incoming and outgoing traffic, minimizing exposure to threats. Meanwhile, enforcing strong, unique passwords for each session or device greatly reduces the risk of brute-force attacks.
Regular Updates and Patching: Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving. Regular software updates and security patches are essential to close vulnerabilities and maintain a high level of protection over time.
User Access Control and Session Auditing: Limiting user permissions based on roles, combined with monitoring and logging remote sessions, adds another layer of security. This practice helps quickly identify and respond to any suspicious activities.

With these key security features in mind, let's take a closer look at the top secure remote desktop software options. Each solution listed below offers strong protection, reliable performance, and distinct advantages.

Top 1. DeskIn — Best Balance of Security, Performance, and Affordability

DeskIn offers a rare combination of strong security, high performance, and excellent value. It's an ideal choice as the best free secure remote desktop for Windows/Mac, without sacrificing quality. DeskIn's security features include mandatory email verification for new registrations and device logins, a privacy screen function to protect on-screen activities during remote sessions, and customizable device blacklists and whitelists for granular access control. These features create secure remote desktop access for personal and professional use.

On the performance side, DeskIn stands out with low-latency connections, a global network of over 200 nodes, and no time restrictions on remote sessions, making it highly reliable for long hours of work or gaming. It also supports high-quality remote gaming (up to 4K 60FPS), file transfers without size limits, and seamless multi-device access across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. These capabilities make DeskIn a top pick for users who demand security and smooth, lag-free performance.

Click here to download DeskIn

Here is a brief operation guide for you to use DeskIn to make your remote control process easy and safe.

Step 1. Go to the DeskIn official website, download the app for your platform (Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android), and complete the installation process.

Step 2. Sign up for a free account and complete the email verification step to ensure account security. You'll need to verify any new device you connect to later as well.

Step 3. Log in on both devices, link them using the device ID and password on the target device. Once connected, you can start secure, low-latency remote access right away.

Use DeskIn for Secure Remote Desktop Control

💡 Pros:

Strong multi-layered security (email verification, privacy screen, access lists)
Low latency with over 200 global nodes
No time limits on remote sessions
The free plan supports up to three devices commercially
Affordable premium upgrades for power users
Supports 4K 60FPS remote gaming and high-fidelity design work

Cons:

Advanced features (e.g., 100+ device control) require an upgrade to paid plans.

Top 2. AnyDesk — Lightweight and Highly Secure Option

AnyDesk has built a strong reputation as one of the fastest and most secure remote desktop tools available today. It leverages robust security measures such as TLS 1.2 encryption, RSA 2048 asymmetric key exchange, and optional two-factor authentication (2FA), making it a solid choice for businesses and individuals who prioritize secure connections. These features ensure that all session data remains encrypted and protected from unauthorized access.

In terms of performance, AnyDesk delivers smooth and responsive remote control, thanks to its lightweight client and proprietary DeskRT codec. Its clean user interface and fast connection speeds make it ideal for quick troubleshooting, IT support, or accessing workstations remotely. However, while the free version is functional, its commercial usage restrictions and limited features can be a drawback for professional users.

💡 Pros:

End-to-end encrypted sessions with TLS 1.2 and RSA 2048
Very low latency and high responsiveness
Lightweight and easy to install
Cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android)
Custom branding options for enterprise users

Cons:

Free version not licensed for commercial use
Some advanced features are locked behind paid plans
May require manual firewall or permission configurations for full functionality
Occasional performance drops in more complex or high-demand environments

Top 3. Splashtop — Secure Remote Access for Businesses and Teams

Splashtop is a powerful remote desktop solution designed with security at its core. It uses robust device authentication, TLS, and 256-bit AES session encryption to protect remote connections against unauthorized access. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is also available, providing an extra layer of protection for users managing sensitive data or remote infrastructure.

Beyond security, Splashtop stands out for its enterprise-focused features, including user management, granular access control, session recording, and integration with single sign-on (SSO) providers. It's particularly popular among IT teams and organizations that require large-scale deployment and strong compliance support. However, for individual users or smaller teams, Splashtop's pricing can feel steep compared to more flexible alternatives.

💡 Pros:

Strong device authentication and session encryption (TLS, AES-256)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) support
Detailed user management and session control
SSO integration for enterprise users
High performance with minimal latency

Cons:

Higher pricing compared to consumer-focused options
Some features are locked behind business-oriented plans
Limited appeal for casual or solo users
Interface complexity is hard for those new to remote desktop solutions

Top 4. Chrome Remote Desktop — A Free and Secure Solution for Casual Users

Chrome Remote Desktop offers a secure and straightforward way to remotely access devices through your Google account. It leverages Google's built-in security features, including mandatory two-factor authentication (2FA) if enabled on your account, and encrypts all remote sessions end-to-end. This makes it a solid choice for users who want a basic but secure remote desktop solution without complicated setups.

Best suited for light remote access needs, Chrome Remote Desktop excels in simplicity and ease of use. It's completely free, works across platforms, and requires no additional software beyond a browser extension. However, its functionality is limited compared to professional remote desktop tools, making it less ideal for business or advanced technical use.

💡 Pros:

Completely free to use
Google account 2FA and encrypted connections
Easy setup and intuitive interface
Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS)
Minimal resource usage

Cons:

Limited features (no file transfer, no multi-monitor support)
Not suitable for heavy or enterprise-level remote work
Relies heavily on Google account security
Performance issues on slower internet connections

Top 5. TeamViewer — Trusted by Enterprises Worldwide

TeamViewer has long been recognized as one of the most secure and reliable remote desktop solutions on the market. It implements 256-bit AES encryption for all sessions, enforces two-factor authentication (2FA) for account security, and holds SOC2 certification, which verifies its commitment to strict data protection and privacy standards. These measures make TeamViewer an excellent choice for businesses and users who prioritize high-level security in their remote connections.

Designed for scalability, TeamViewer is particularly suitable for large-scale organizations that require centralized device management, comprehensive user controls, and support for cross-platform connectivity. However, its licensing costs are relatively high, which can be a drawback for small teams or individual users looking for more affordable solutions.

💡 Pros:

256-bit AES encryption and strong security compliance (SOC2)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) and device management
Highly scalable for enterprise use
Supports a wide range of operating systems and devices
Advanced features like remote monitoring and patch management

Cons:

High licensing fees for professional and enterprise plans
Occasional false positives on "commercial use" warnings for free users
Some advanced features can feel overly complex for casual users

Tips: Best Way to Secure Remote Desktop Connections

Before wrapping up, it's crucial to understand that even the best secure remote desktop software still relies on users following good security practices. Here are a few essential tips to maximize your protection:

Enable firewall protection on both local and remote devices to control incoming and outgoing traffic.
Use strong, unique passwords for all remote accounts and sessions to prevent brute-force attacks.
Activate two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever available to add an extra verification step beyond your password.
Keep software updated regularly to ensure you're protected against the latest vulnerabilities and exploits.
Limit user permissions and review remote session logs to spot any unusual activity early.

When choosing the most secure remote desktop software, always align your selection with your specific needs.

For personal use or light tasks, free and simple options like Chrome Remote Desktop work well.
Businesses and teams should prioritize enterprise-grade solutions like Splashtop or TeamViewer that offer user management and compliance support.
If you're a gamer, designer, or student, you'll benefit most from a solution like DeskIn, which delivers a unique balance of performance, security, and affordability.

Click here to download DeskIn

Conclusion: Which Secure Remote Desktop is Best for You?

Choosing the right secure remote desktop software depends on your specific needs, whether it's for casual personal use, professional work, gaming, or enterprise operations. Here's a quick comparison of the top 5 options.

Software	Best For	Key Security Features
DeskIn	Students, professionals, gamers, designers	Email verification, privacy screen, black/white lists
AnyDesk	Lightweight personal or team use	TLS 1.2 encryption, 2FA
Splashtop	Businesses and teams	Device authentication, encrypted sessions
Chrome Remote Desktop	Light personal use	Google 2FA, encrypted sessions
TeamViewer	Large organizations	256-bit AES encryption, 2FA, SOC2 certification

If you are looking for a modern, affordable, and highly secure remote desktop solution, DeskIn stands out. It combines strong security measures with excellent performance and an unbeatable price point, perfect for students, professionals, gamers, and creative designers alike. Ready to experience next-level secure remote access? Hit the button below to try DeskIn and enjoy a smooth, secure remote connection wherever you are!

Click here to download DeskIn

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How to Enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10 [Best Guide]

How to Enable Remote Desktop Windows 10: Easy Guide & Error Fixes

Want to enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10 but can't find the option or encounter connection issues? You're not alone. Many users run into confusion because Remote Desktop isn't available on all Windows 10 editions, or they miss a few critical setup steps.

In this guide, we'll walk you through how to quickly enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10, explain the system requirements you need to meet, and help you troubleshoot common problems. Read on to turn on Remote Desktop smoothly and start controlling your PC remotely!

System Requirements to Allow Remote Desktop on Windows 10

Before enabling Remote Desktop on your Windows 10 PC, it's essential to ensure that your system meets the requirements. These requirements ensure that Remote Desktop can function properly and allow for a smooth remote connection. Below are the key factors you need to consider.

Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education Edition: Remote Desktop is not supported on Windows 10 Home. If you're using the Home edition, you will need to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education to enable the feature.
Stable Network Connection: For Remote Desktop to function properly, both the local and remote PCs must be connected to a stable and reliable network. A poor or intermittent internet connection could result in dropped sessions or poor performance.
Administrator Account Permissions: To enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10, you need to have administrative privileges on the PC. The account you're using must have permission to make system changes, including enabling Remote Desktop.
PC Must Be Powered On and Connected to the Internet During Remote Sessions: For remote access to work, the target PC must be powered on and connected to the internet. If the PC is asleep or turned off, the remote connection will fail.

By ensuring your system meets these requirements, you can avoid potential issues when setting up Remote Desktop. In the next section, we'll guide you through the steps to enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10.

Detailed Steps to Turn on Remote Desktop on Windows 10 PC

Enabling Remote Desktop on Windows 10 allows you to remotely access your PC from another device, making it easier to work or troubleshoot from a distance. Follow the steps below to set up Remote Desktop on your Windows 10 device.

Step 1. Open Settings (Win + I > System)

Press the "Windows key + I" to open the Settings app.
In the Settings window, click on the "System" option to proceed.

Step 2. Find and Turn On Remote Desktop

Scroll down within the "System" section until you find Remote Desktop.
Toggle the switch to "On" to enable the feature.
You will see a confirmation prompt; click "Confirm" to activate Remote Desktop.

Set Up Remote Desktop Feature on Windows

Step 3. Confirm and Allow Access

Once Remote Desktop is turned on, you will need to confirm that your PC is accessible remotely.
Windows will show the PC name, which you'll need to connect from another device.
Make sure the Remote Desktop feature is enabled for remote access.

Step 4. Adjust Firewall Settings

To ensure your PC can accept remote connections, you need to allow Remote Desktop traffic through the firewall. Follow these steps:

Open the "Control Panel" by pressing "Win + R", typing "control", and pressing "Enter".
Go to "System and Security", and then select "Windows Defender Firewall".
In the left-hand menu, click "Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall".
Ensure that Remote Desktop is checked for both "Private" and "Public" network profiles.

Enable Remote Desktop on Windows Firewall Settings

Step 5. Add Additional Users if Needed

By default, only users with administrator privileges can remotely access the PC. If you want to grant access to other users, follow these steps:

In the Remote Desktop settings, click on "Select users that can remotely access this PC".
You will be prompted to add the usernames of users you wish to grant access to. Enter the name of the user, and click "Add".
These users will now be able to connect remotely to your PC, provided they have the correct login credentials.

How to Find Your Windows 10 Computer Name or IP Address

After enabling Remote Desktop, you'll need your computer's name or IP address to establish a successful connection from another device. Here's how to quickly find this information on Windows 10.

Find Your Computer Name

Press "Win + I" to open the Settings app.
Navigate to "System > About".
Under the "Device specifications" section, look for Device name — this is your computer's name, which you'll use for Remote Desktop connections.

Find Your IP Address

Press "Win + R", type "cmd", and press "Enter" to open the Command Prompt.
In the Command Prompt window, type "ipconfig" and press "Enter".
Look for the IPv4 Address under your active network connection. This is your PC's IP address.

After you've got all the information you need, you can start to connect with the Remote Desktop Connection to easily remote access another Windows computer!

👀 Tips:

If you are connecting within the same local network (LAN), using the Device name is usually enough.
For connections over the internet, you might need the public IP address and configure router settings like port forwarding.

Common Fixes About Remote Desktop Windows 10 Activation

Even after following the setup steps, you might encounter issues when trying to activate or use Remote Desktop on Windows 10. Below are answers and solutions to some of the most common problems.

Can't Find Remote Desktop Connection Windows 10?

If you can't locate the Remote Desktop settings or app on your Windows 10 device, it could be due to one of the following reasons:

Windows 10 Home Edition: Remote Desktop is not available on Windows 10 Home. You will need to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education to access this feature.
Feature Not Enabled: Even on supported editions, Remote Desktop may not be turned on by default. Follow the steps outlined earlier to enable it manually.
Hidden Settings: Sometimes, system updates or IT policies may hide Remote Desktop settings. Ensure your Windows 10 installation is up-to-date and check with your system administrator if needed.

Cannot Use Remote Desktop Connection on Windows 10?

If you have enabled Remote Desktop but still cannot connect, check the following:

Firewall Settings: Ensure that Remote Desktop is allowed through Windows Defender Firewall. Go to "Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall", and make sure Remote Desktop is enabled for both private and public networks.
Network Configuration: Remote Desktop requires a stable network connection. If you're connecting over the internet, you may need to configure port forwarding (TCP 3389) on your router.
User Permissions: By default, only administrator accounts are allowed to connect remotely. Make sure the user account you are trying to use has remote access permission. You can add users in "Settings > System > Remote Desktop > Select users that can remotely access this PC".

Does Remote Desktop Connection Come with Windows 10?

Remote Desktop Connection is included in certain editions of Windows 10, but not all:

Included: Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions come with built-in Remote Desktop functionality.
Not Included: Windows 10 Home edition does not support Remote Desktop hosting (only connecting to other PCs is possible).
- If you're using Windows 10 Home and want to enable Remote Desktop hosting, you will need to upgrade to a Pro version or explore third-party remote desktop software alternatives.

Bonus: An Easier Alternative to Remote Desktop - DeskIn App

While Windows 10's built-in Remote Desktop is powerful, it can sometimes be complicated to set up, especially if you're using the Home edition, dealing with network configurations, or facing firewall restrictions. If you're looking for a faster, easier, and more flexible way to access your PC remotely, DeskIn is a highly recommended alternative.

Click here to download DeskIn

👀 DeskIn offers:

No version limitations: Works across Windows 10 Home, Pro, and other editions.
Simple setup: No need to configure firewalls or ports.
Cross-platform access: Connect from Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even Web browsers.
High-speed performance: Optimized for smooth remote sessions, even on lower bandwidths.

With DeskIn, you can start remote control in just a few clicks, no complicated system settings required. Here are the brief steps for you to use it.

Download and install DeskIn on both your local and remote devices.
Sign up and log in with the same DeskIn account on both sides.
Get the DeskIn ID of the remote device you want to control.
Enter the ID and connect, then enjoy a smooth and secure remote session instantly.

Final Words

Enabling Remote Desktop on Windows 10 can greatly enhance your productivity, whether you're accessing work files from home or providing support to another PC. By following the correct setup steps and addressing common issues, you can ensure a smooth and secure remote connection.

If you find Remote Desktop too complicated or limited by system requirements, tools like DeskIn offer a simpler and more flexible alternative. Choose the method that best fits your needs, and enjoy seamless remote access on Windows 10!

Click here to download DeskIn

How to Enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10 [Best Guide]

How to Enable Remote Desktop Windows 10: Easy Guide & Error Fixes

System Requirements to Allow Remote Desktop on Windows 10

Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education Edition: Remote Desktop is not supported on Windows 10 Home. If you're using the Home edition, you will need to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education to enable the feature.
Stable Network Connection: For Remote Desktop to function properly, both the local and remote PCs must be connected to a stable and reliable network. A poor or intermittent internet connection could result in dropped sessions or poor performance.
Administrator Account Permissions: To enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10, you need to have administrative privileges on the PC. The account you're using must have permission to make system changes, including enabling Remote Desktop.
PC Must Be Powered On and Connected to the Internet During Remote Sessions: For remote access to work, the target PC must be powered on and connected to the internet. If the PC is asleep or turned off, the remote connection will fail.