Free alternatives to TeamViewer

TeamViewer is a remote access and remote support program: it lets you see and control another computer over the internet, share a screen in a meeting, or transfer files. IT support teams, freelancers, people who work from home and relatives helping each other with computer problems are typical users. Professional use is typically licensed by subscription.

Before switching, list the situations where you rely on it. Do you connect to a machine that nobody is sitting at (unattended access), or only to help someone who is in front of it? Check that the alternative has clients for every system you need, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS, and what it needs in order to connect through firewalls and home routers. Some options can use a server you run yourself, which gives you control but also means you have to maintain it. Also look at file transfer, clipboard sharing, multiple monitors, session logs and how you manage a list of many computers.

The person on the other side will need to install or run the tool too, so plan how you will explain that to clients or family. The list below includes RustDesk, among other options.