Replace These 11 Default Apps in Windows 11
Windows comes with a set of default apps that cover the basics – but for most of them, that's exactly their ceiling. Here are 11 better alternatives worth switching to.
Remote desktop articles
Fake downloads of popular PC utilities are quietly installing crypto miners on enthusiast PCs
Link poisoning enters the AI era – cryptojackers target GPU owners via chatbots
PSA: PC enthusiasts downloading tools like Display Driver Uninstaller, CrystalDiskInfo, or similar utilities should take a closer look at where those downloads are actually coming from. Microsoft has uncovered an active cryptocurrency mining campaign targeting the kinds of high-end machines most likely to run benchmarking and maintenance software.
Still using TeamViewer? Try the faster and open-source RustDesk
Remote desktop access remains a critical utility, especially for support, collaboration, or accessing files on the go. RustDesk has emerged as a modern, privacy-conscious alternative to options like TeamViewer. It's open-source, fast, and works seamlessly across platforms without the usual bloat. Check out more in our essential apps feature.
Windows Remote Desktop goes immersive as Meta Quest 3 adds mixed-reality workspaces
New XR update brings immersive multi-monitor workspaces to Quest 3
RustDesk is a fast, open-source remote desktop alternative to TeamViewer
Remote desktop access remains a critical utility, especially for support, collaboration, or accessing files on the go. RustDesk has emerged as a modern, privacy-conscious alternative to options like TeamViewer. It's open-source, fast, and works seamlessly across platforms without the usual bloat. Check out more in our essential apps feature.
AnyDesk offers a secure solution for remote access
AnyDesk is a simple, yet free, option for secure remote access or screen sharing. This portable app is lightweight, and all data is encrypted using TLS 1.2 and 256-bit AES.
Windows Remote Desktop Protocol contains a login backdoor Microsoft refuses to fix
It's not a bug, but a feature, Microsoft confirmed to concerned researchers
WTF?! The proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft to facilitate remote connections to Windows machines contains an outstanding security flaw. However, Microsoft has stated that it has no plans to fix the issue, as doing so would break compatibility with many applications.
Windows is now an iPhone app, letting you stream a PC in the cloud
New cloud app bundles Azure, Windows 365, Dev Box, and remote desktop access
Unity acquires streaming company Parsec for $320M
Parsec's game streaming technology has seen demand from development studios
Take remote control of your PC or phone with TeamViewer
TeamViewer is a well established app and an intuitive way to remotely control computers, tablets, and smartphones. It is free for personal use available for all major platforms.
In-Home Streaming Faceoff: Steam Remote Play vs. Moonlight
Whether you just want to play Skyrim in bed, or take your your work apps with you to the living room, solutions like Steam in-home streaming and remote dek offer a near-flawless experience.
How to Remote Access Your Computer with Chrome
Chrome Remote Desktop can be installed in any machine with a Chrome browser, regardless of the operating system. This brings the possibility of not only accessing your files and programs remotely like in traditional cases, but also the option of running Windows or macOS applications in your ChromeOS device.
Tech Tip: Enable Concurrent Desktop Sessions in Windows
Remote Desktop in server editions of Windows by default supports two concurrent connections to remotely troubleshoot or administer a computer. However, there are a few reasons why concurrent sessions would come in handy for power users not necessarily running a server.
For example, if you have a dedicated Media Center PC running in the living room, you'll be able to remotely access all files on the machine without interrupting the person watching TV. Or if you are sharing a computer with other users, concurrent Remote Desktop sessions will allow more than one person use that system under a different or even the same user account, without kicking each other off.
