In this Splashtop review, we’ve analyzed some of the best remote desktop software available. Splashtop offers a range of remote access solutions, from business IT managers to support teams and personal users. 

Additionally, Splashtop easily enables users to connect numerous devices with different operating systems. Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and more are supported, and robust security features back all versions. Finally, its worldwide server infrastructure and reliable network mean you can be confident in its long-term performance.

Splashtop: Plans and pricing

Splashtop offers various pricing plans to suit different needs. The exact cost will depend on the specific plan and features you require. For remote access, prices start at $5 per month for the "Solo" version, while the "Pro" version costs $8.25 per month for each user. The "Business Performance" package costs $13 per month per user. 

For Splashtop's remote service product, packages start at $17 monthly. 

Prices are subject to change, so it's always best to check the official Splashtop website for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

Splashtop: Features and utilities

Splashtop provides highly targeted remote access solutions that come with their own specific features. However, there are a few global features that are worth mentioning. These include a simple interface and the ability to remotely access a client’s computer without them having to install any software.

At the same time, Splashtop enables you to access and manage unattended computers from any device with its intuitive app.  You can connect numerous unattended computers to ensure you always have access to important information. 

Splashtop also comes with a selection of additional features that vary according to the plan you’re using. For example, all subscriptions come with file transfer tools. Session recording is available where applicable, and support packages include a built-in chat module.

Splashtop: Setup

New users can trial Splashtop’s software for seven days without providing payment information. Getting started involves signing up for a new account, providing a few personal details, and installing the required apps on the devices you plan to use.

Once you’ve created your account, you will be guided through a straightforward setup process, which will vary according to the plan you use. We trialed the Remote Support plan, which involved installing the Splashtop app on the device we wanted to connect from. A streamer package then needed to be downloaded onto the devices we wanted to access. This done, the devices could be connected at the click of a button.

Splashtop: Interface and performance

We tested Splashtop by connecting to a Windows computer from an Android smartphone. Overall, the user interface is simple and intuitive, but don’t expect any fancy features.You can screen share and access different devices remotely, and both the desktop and smartphone apps are attractive and work well. It’s important to note that your exact user interface will depend on the subscription you’re using. Different devices also use slightly different interfaces, as to be expected.

Overall, Splashtop performs well. We tested it with an approximately 50 Mbps internet connection and in general, the software was fast and responsive. At times, there was a small lag (less than one second) with the screen share features, but mouse tracking and clicks registered almost instantaneously. The file transfer feature was also fast and efficient.

Splashtop: Security

Splashtop’s software is backed by a selection of powerful security integrations. For example, its cloud services are hosted on Amazon Web Services, a platform secured by firewalls, encryption, DDoS protection, and more. Similarly, intrusion detection and defense mechanisms are in place to provide an extra layer of protection.

All devices used with Splashtop must be authenticated and two-factor protection is available. All data transfers are backed by 256-bit AES encryption and TLS. Technicians can also remotely blank the screen of a connected device, securing sensitive information.

Splashtop: Support

Splashtop provides online ticket submission and chat support for all users. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, but wait times can be lengthy. Fortunately, you will also have access to a large, beginner-friendly knowledge base containing a wealth of information. Guides and how-to articles are cleverly categorized by category and the built-in search engine works well. A community forum is also available for more complex questions.

Splashtop: Pros and cons

Below, we delve into Splashtop and weigh its significant advantages and potential drawbacks.

Pros of Splashtop

1  Ease of Use: Splashtop's intuitive interface makes it easy to set up and start using, even for non-tech-savvy users.

2  Cross-platform Support: Splashtop supports many monitoring systems, ensuring users can access their desktops from nearly any device.

3  High Performance: Splashtop boasts high-speed connections with low latency, offering a smooth and responsive experience comparable to sitting in front of a computer.

4  Security: Splashtop provides robust security features, such as TLS and 256-bit AES encryption, two-factor authentication, and device authentication, keeping connections secure from unauthorized access.

5  Cost-Effective: Unlike other remote desktop solutions, Splashtop offers competitive pricing, especially for individuals and small businesses, making it an affordable option without sacrificing quality.

6  File Transfer: Users can quickly transfer files between devices, increasing productivity and eliminating the need to rely on cloud storage to access essential documents remotely.

7  Remote Printing: Splashtop lets users print documents from a remote computer to the nearest local printer, facilitating work processes.

Cons of Splashtop

1  Internet Dependence: Like all remote access tools, a stable, high-speed internet connection is crucial for a seamless experience. Any connectivity issues can impede performance.

2  Subscription Model: Some users may prefer to purchase software one-time, but Splashtop operates on a subscription model, which might increase the long-term costs of continuous use.

3  Mobile Experience: Though Splashtop is available on mobile devices, controlling a desktop from a small screen can be challenging and may not suit all tasks.

4  Resource Usage: Running remote access software can be resource-intensive on the host computer, potentially slowing down other operations if the system is not adequately powerful.

Splashtop: Final verdict

Overall, Splashtop is a powerful remote desktop connection manager with highly targeted plans and strong security. New users can benefit from a seven-day trial with the software package of their choice, but payments are only available on an annual basis.

Splashtop is a great choice for those with limited tech experience. It’s easy to set up, and the user interface is responsive and beginner-friendly. The software also includes excellent extra features, strong security at all levels, and a detailed knowledge base.

In conclusion, Splashtop stands out as a formidable remote desktop solution due to its ease of use, high performance, and strong security features. It's an excellent tool for those looking to increase their productivity and maintain access to their digital workspaces from anywhere. However, users must consider the importance of a stable internet connection, the limitations of free versions, and the subscription cost when choosing Splashtop as their remote access solution.

Whether for business use or personal convenience, Splashtop provides a compelling service that meets the needs of a broad user base. However, it’s essential to weigh these pros and cons to decide if it's the right tool for you.

The competition

Although Splashtop is a great remote desktop access and screen sharing tool, there are numerous competitors that should be considered. For example, TeamViewer offers a huge selection of additional management tools such as a built-in meeting tab and IoT device control—but it is a little expensive. Meanwhile, Remote Access for Windows is a great free alternative, but it can only be used with Windows devices.

Find out about the best alternatives to Splashtop in our guide to the Best remote desktop software.

What to look for in a remote desktop solution

In today's digital age, remote desktop solutions have become a cornerstone of business operations, enabling employees to access their work environment anywhere in the world. This technology supports the growing remote work trend and ensures that organizations can maintain their productivity levels, irrespective of their physical location. But with many options available, how do you choose the right one for your needs? Here are some key aspects to consider when searching for a remote desktop solution.

Seamless Connectivity and Accessibility—The foremost attribute of an efficient remote desktop solution is its ability to provide smooth, easy-to-establish connections. It should empower users to access their desktops and applications with minimal effort and without the need for extensive technical knowledge. The solution must be compatible across various devices and operating systems to ensure all team members can stay connected regardless of their preferred gadgets.

Security Features - With cyber threats at an all-time high, security has never been more critical. A suitable remote desktop tool should offer robust security measures, including end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security updates to protect against vulnerabilities. The ability to set granular access controls and monitor user activity can further enhance the security of sensitive organizational data.

Performance and Reliability - The effectiveness of a remote desktop solution also hinges on its performance. It should provide a smooth, lag-free experience, closely mimicking the feel of working directly on the host computer. High reliability, with minimal downtime and quick recovery options, ensures that work can proceed uninterrupted, thus maintaining high productivity levels.

Support and Scalability—As businesses grow, their needs evolve. A scalable remote desktop solution that allows for easy addition of new users and resources can be a valuable asset. Equally important is responsive customer support. A provider that offers prompt, efficient help when issues arise can save precious time and resources.

Cost-Effectiveness - While it's crucial not to sacrifice— essential features, the cost is a significant factor for most organizations. The ideal solution would offer a transparent pricing model that scales with your needs, ensuring you only pay for what you use. Evaluate not just the initial costs but also long-term expenses, including updates and support.

User Experience—Last but not least, the user experience cannot be overlooked. A user-friendly interface, minimal latency, and the ability to personalize settings can make a big difference in daily operations. The solution must have intuitive controls that don't steep the learning curve for new users.

Choosing the right remote desktop solution involves carefully balancing performance, security, ease of use, and cost. As businesses continue to evolve, the ability to work remotely efficiently will become even more critical. Evaluating your options based on these criteria can go a long way in ensuring that your choice meets your current needs and is a viable long-term solution as your organization grows. In this selection process, insights from current users and expert reviews can also provide valuable perspectives, helping to narrow down the choices to the solution best suited to your unique requirements.

Bizmatics, Inc., the creator of the  PrognoCIS medical software suite, has its headquarters in San Jose, California- commonly known as Silicon Valley - since 2001. From this location, they offer a complete range of software solutions, including Electronic Health Records (EHR), Telemedicine, and Medical Billing, available as either local hosted or cloud-based options. Over 15,000 medical professionals use the PrognoCIS application, facilitating more than 25 million patient interactions. Furthermore, Bizmatics is an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau, demonstrating their commitment to providing high-quality services.

PrognoCIS: Features

PrognoCIS offers Practice Management Software, a module that seamlessly integrates with its EHR and billing system. The scheduling component allows for effortless appointment setup and sends text reminders to patients. However, upon closer examination, it becomes apparent that the software's primary focus is on billing, rather than scheduling.

PrognoCIS' software solution provides numerous benefits. It can identify a patient's insurance provider, verify their eligibility for services, and calculate copay amounts. It also allows for easy integration with multiple clearinghouses, enabling efficient patient account reconciliation while considering insurance billing. The software's ability to generate customized statements enhances the professional appearance of medical documentation. Additionally, cash flow optimization is achieved through online patient payments and the efficient processing of EOBs and ERAs.

With PrognoCIS's Task Assignment feature, billers and clinical staff can communicate more efficiently and keep track of tasks. Gone are the days of endless pages and callbacks for coding and billing issues. Instead, billers can send documentable communication to clinicians, who can then address the issues at their convenience, thus improving communication between the two departments.

The persistent use of fax communications in healthcare poses a challenge to medical practices. While many other industries have abandoned the use of traditional fax machines and moved forward with more digital communications, healthcare continues to rely on them due to their compliance with HIPAA regulations. Unlike email and texting, faxes are considered to be HIPAA-compliant. PrognoCIS addresses this need with its PrognoFax feature, as instead of using a separate fax machine, PrognoFax is an in-cloud e-faxing service. It allows users to send and receive faxes securely from within the PrognoCIS software without the need for additional hardware or a separate fax service. 

PrognoCIS: Drawbacks

PrognoCIS is a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform accessible via a web browser on any device. This compatibility allows users to utilize PrognoCIS on desktop or laptop computers with a web browser. Additionally, PrognoCIS provides mobile apps for iOS and Android platforms, but their ratings are relatively low. The iOS app, with only 20 reviews, has a score of 1.4 out of 5.

The most recent review is from 2022 suggesting that the app is not particularly developed. The user complains that they cannot read the items on their phone as they are so tiny, and have to take a screenshot and then zoom in to be able to see anything. Other reviews are not suggesting that the app performs better unfortunately.As per the latest review from 2022, the app's development seems inadequate. The user's main complaint centers around the unreadable, minuscule items on their phone screen. To view any content, they must resort to taking a screenshot and zooming in. Regrettably, other reviews do not indicate a more favorable performance of the app.

Regrettably, there is no free trial available, but a free demo is offered for users to at least see the service.

PrognoCIS: Support

The PrognoCIS website's ‘Contact Us’ section provides two contact options for support. One is a toll-free number which we appreciate since complex issues are easier to explain verbally. Unfortunatley, the operating hours for the phone support are not listed, though elsewhere on the site it is mentioned that it's available 24/7.

Alternatively, you can use a direct email address. Although we provide this option for general inquiries, please note that email communication is not considered HIPAA compliant. Therefore, we cannot send screenshots containing Protected Health Information (PHI) or address specific billing issues related to patient accounts through this communication channel.

We express our regret that alternative options, such as chat or an online portal, have not been made available. Additionally, some webinars are offered for training purposes. However, user reviews highlight instances where response times for trouble tickets can be lengthy, and some tickets are closed out without a satisfactory resolution.

PrognoCIS: Pricing

The pricing structure for PrognoCIS is not readily available on their website, which is unfortunately a common occurrence in the medical practice software market. The company adheres to the idea that a comprehensive demonstration is necessary to grasp the full potential and advantages of PrognoCIS. We can recognize that pricing sometimes needs to be tailored to the specific requirements of each specific practice.

Conversely, we seek insights into pricing without providing contact information and engaging in sales conversations without having some idea of the cost. Therefore, with enough searching we discovered in a FAQ that PrognoCIS pricing begins around $280 on up to $450 per month per provider.

PrognoCIS: Final verdict

PrognoCIS, a cloud-based medical practice management software, provides a comprehensive suite of features that caters to the needs of busy medical practices. While it boasts several advantages, there are also some drawbacks that practices should consider before committing to the service.

On the positive side, PrognoCIS offers integrated faxing and robust internal communication for tracking tasks, making it an efficient tool for practice management. Additionally, it is a cloud-based solution, allowing for seamless access from any location.

However, there are some areas where PrognoCIS falls short. One significant downside is the lack of a free trial, which can be a deterrent for practices looking to test the software before making a purchase. The pricing structure is also not transparent, leaving practices uncertain about the actual cost of the software without investing the time in contacting the company. Furthermore, the lack of certain support options, such as chat support, can be a hindrance to practices seeking immediate assistance.

PrognoCIS offers multiple features for managing medical practices, but the lack of a free trial, the opaque pricing, and limited support options give us pause. Practices should consider these factors before finalizing their decision.

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Lots of secure email providers come from dedicated organizations that commit to email and privacy, but Zoho’s option emerges from a much larger business.

Zoho’s exhaustive list of products includes this mail service, a comprehensive CRM platform, accounting tools, unified cloud services, helpdesk management tools, and dozens more.

In short, then, there’s lots going on with Zoho’s secure email product and its wider offering. While that may raise concerns about Zoho’s email effectiveness when compared to dedicated products, it also means this may be a great choice if you already use Zoho products in other areas of your organization.

Zoho Mail: Plans and pricing 

Zoho’s pricing gets off to a surprising start: there’s a free product available. It’s generous, too, with support for up to five users, each with 5GB of space and a 25MB attachment limit. You can use web access and Android and iOS apps with the free plan, and it includes email hosting for a single domain – but not IMAP, POP or ActiveSync support.

The most affordable paid plan, Mail Lite, costs €0.90/$0.94/£0.80 per user per month and includes Zoho’s standard business email capability alongside tools like SecurePass password-protected mail, IMAP, POP and ActiveSync support and a calendar. Mail Lite’s default option includes 5GB of storage per user and a tiny price bump boosts that to 10GB.

The Mail Premium option costs €3.60/$3.74/£3.20 per month per user. It takes the Mail Lite package and adds 1GB attachments, retention, email backup, white labelling for customization and S-MIME security services. Mail Premium is available with a 15-day free trial.

The Workplace package costs €2.70/$2.81/£2.40 per user per month and becomes more expensive if you add features beyond email, with this product designed specifically for larger organizations.

It includes everything from the first two tiers alongside cloud file storage, online word processing, spreadsheet and presentation apps, comms tools, meeting software and collaboration utilities, so it’s more akin to a fully-fledged working suite, like something from Google or Microsoft.

Large organizations can contact Zoho’s sales team for enterprise deals, and flexible pricing means different plans for different users in your business.

Zoho Mail: Features

Zoho is GDPR and HIPAA compliant, which is a good start for any secure email product, and Zoho Mail has ISO 22301, 9001 and 27001 certifications.

Emails within the Zoho system are encrypted at rest and in transit. SSL/TLS connections encrypt emails in transit, S/MIME is used to encrypt message contents, and PGP adds another layer of protection.

Elsewhere, Zoho supports OAuth 2.0 authentication two-factor authentication and single sign-on, and Zoho monitors your accounts for unusual activity.

Zoho’s data centers are distributed throughout the US, Europe, China and India at data centers with security teams, biometric access and impressive levels of physical security. Still, those locations could be a red flag for some who may prefer their data to be physically stored in single locations with more robust privacy laws.

This product supports custom domains, POP, IMAP and ActiveSync and it’s available with Windows, Mac and Linux clients – that latter option is scarce among secure email providers. On mobile, there are mail, administration, collaboration and cloud storage apps available for Android and iOS devices, further bolstering Zoho’s credentials as a fully-featured productivity and business suite.

There are loads of other features that make Zoho a useful corporate option, too. Offline inboxes and automatic sending are supported alongside templates.

Zoho has also recently rolled out Zia, an AI assistant powered by OpenAI. Your mileage may vary on its usefulness, and there are concerns around privacy and sustainability with OpenAI’s products and those from other products, but Zia has auto-completion and writing, summarizing, tone alteration, content length adjustment and more.

Beyond email, Zoho offers a calendar, to-do list and notepad app, sleek contact organization, and its office tools at higher payment tiers. And, of course, there’s the wider integration with the entire Zoho system of business tools, with hundreds of options available throughout the ecosystem.

That’s great, but be aware that integrations with third-party tools will be limited – no surprise as Zoho wants to keep users within its system. There’s little from Google, Microsoft, Adobe or Apple, for instance.

Zoho Mail: Interface and in-use

Zoho Mail has an excellent interface, with a three-pane design weighted towards the contents of your emails – handy because it means your messages don’t feel uncomfortably cramped. Handy tabs at the top of the primary mail window hold messages and drafts, and a toolbar along the left edge serves up links to your calendar, contacts, to-do list and other email modules.

When composing emails there are useful buttons to record audio and secure emails with passwords and expiration dates, and on the right-hand side of the window you can access other parts of the Zoho ecosystem, like your word processor, cloud storage, meeting tool and CRM. Click a button in the top-right and you can access every other Zoho tool you’ve got in your account.

Visually it’s attractive, with light and dark modes that can sync to those settings on your main computer. You can change themes and colors, customize your font and font size, and dive into hundreds of settings to tweak the client’s functionality.

Zoho Mail: Support

Zoho offers 24/7 email-based technical support and, impressively, 24/7 phone support in twenty countries. There’s an extensive knowledge base, loads of guides available on Zoho’s website, and a broad FAQ section.

This is one of the best support offerings we’ve seen from this slate of secure email tools. However, it would have been good to see a live chat option – especially as Zoho is competing at a broader level with huge corporations by offering a full suite of business and office products.

Zoho Mail: The competition

Indeed, Zoho’s status as a full-service business and office provider means that it outstrips virtually every rival in terms of features, especially at its higher pricing tiers. The nearest competitors are Proton Mail, which offers a VPN, cloud storage and password management, and Mailbox.org, which has a word processor and spreadsheet tool.

Neither offer the same breadth of service as Zoho, though, and if you want to truly see who competes with Zoho then it’s worth looking at Google Workspace, Microsoft 365 and GoDaddy.

It’s complex and does need some research and comparison before taking the plunge. Zoho does an excellent job with security, but some other business suites will go further in other areas – which might be more important for your organization.

Zoho Mail: Final verdict

There’s no doubt that Zoho is a very secure and effective email product, though, and it pairs that with great features and design – it’s packed with functionality and easy to use. The pricing is decent, too, with per-user and per-monthly costs that undercut many rivals.

This product is packed with more features than individuals will likely need, though, and Zoho Mail is at its best if you’re already locked into the Zoho ecosystem.

If not, then you need to weigh up Zoho against its other corporate rivals to see which one will work best for your organization.

OfficeSuite presents itself as a compelling Microsoft Office alternative, particularly for mobile devices. It maintains complete compatibility with Word, Excel, and Powerpoint, and furnishes its users with robust PDF creation tools. This comprehensive OfficeSuite review aims to illuminate its key features and potential limitations, providing a valuable resource for discerning individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of the software's capabilities.

Upon initial launch of the application, users will be presented with a Home view displaying their recent files. From this central location, individuals have the ability to browse files stored on their device or within any of the seven integrated cloud systems (inclusive of Dropbox and Google Drive), conduct searches for specific files, manage their account, and create new documents. To enhance user comfort, a choice of light or dark mode is provided, facilitating optimal editing conditions in various environments. 

OfficeSuite: Features

We'll take a closer look at this, app by app.

Word Processor

In OfficeSuite, text may be readily customized, offering a comprehensive array of anticipated features including foreground and background coloration, indentation, alignment and justification, and vertical and horizontal spacing. A catalog of styles facilitates expeditious alteration between headers and paragraph text, although the updating or creation of styles is not possible. It is, however, feasible to replicate formatting from one text segment to another by employing the convenient Format Painter tool.

The construction of lists, including those with multiple levels (for example, 1.2.1, 1.2.2, and so on), is supported; however, there is room for improvement. Initiating a sentence with an asterisk or hyphen will not automatically generate a list. Additionally, the creation of new list styles is not possible, limiting users to the three basic options: ○●■. Indents cycle through these list styles, which is advantageous.

The application is also lacking in several significant components. The absence of a citation manager is particularly unfortunate for academic users. The Find and Replace function is limited in scope and lacks support for search styles and Replace All functionality, which is a notable omission for an otherwise robust word processor. The lack of stylus integration is a significant disappointment, especially considering that such functionality is present in the companion Slides application. Finally, it is not possible to embed dynamic charts or graphs within the document, which further limits the application's capabilities.

Spreadsheet

We were excited to find a robust spreadsheet application. The addition of formulas is facilitated through a user-friendly interface that offers a comprehensive library of functions organized in a logical manner. The process of entering functions was straightforward, and we were pleased to observe that the error-parsing mechanism directs the user to the relevant section of the equation. Furthermore, the application demonstrated the ability to automatically fill in a missing closing parenthesis, which demonstrates this software’s attention to detail and user-centric design.

Data rows and columns can be effortlessly sorted with advanced filtering. Data grouping and validation can be easily conducted. The only notable omissions are the capabilities for data consolidation and What-If analyses, which are featured in Microsoft Office. The process of inserting and customizing graphs and charts based on data is straightforward.

Slides

The process of creating and reorganizing slides, adding and customizing page elements, and setting transitions was straightforward, and we experienced no difficulty in crafting a concise and impactful slideshow. In contrast to the Documents component, stylus integration here is truly exceptional: responsive, intuitive, and enjoyable to utilize. Presenter mode also proved to be highly functional, extending support even to stylus-based annotations, which was a significant advantage. 

Additionally, OfficeSuite provides a PDF editor- a significant advantage among its competition, and distinguishing it in the space. It facilitates the conversion of PDFs to Word, Excel, or ePub formats, the addition of detailed annotations, and the signing of documents. The annotation options include the use of a stylus, two types of pens, and a highlighter. It is worth noting that, similar to most PDF annotators, written highlights are positioned in front of the text. However, the transparency of these highlights can be adjusted, enhancing readability.

OfficeSuite: Mobile and web

As previously mentioned, OfficeSuite is compatible with Apple and Android mobile devices. Notably, it also provides support for Apple Watch, which can be utilized for controlling slideshow presentations. Our evaluation of OfficeSuite on iPadOS revealed it to be highly responsive, intuitive, and replete with features. In addition to its compatibility with multiple cloud storage drives, OfficeSuite offers a convenient WiFi file transfer capability, enabling users to initiate file transfers with any computer on their network by specifying an IP address, which is a commendable feature. Subscription plans also encompass 50GB of cloud storage space. 

Collaborative editing features, a significant aspect of many comparable applications, are noticeably absent from the software, which is unfortunate. Nonetheless, tracking changes and adding comments are both supported, and documents can be shared with other users through standard iOS, Android, and Windows channels (for example, email, messaging, and cloud storage). Another miss it that there is no functionality that allows multiple users to work on the same file simultaneously. 

OfficeSuite: Pricing

OfficeSuite can be obtained as free software, designated as the Free Office Pack, although its capabilities are definitely constrained. Documents cannot be printed without watermarks, and fundamental functionalities such as spellcheck and columns are not supported. The Sheets component lacks pivot tables and data validation, albeit the PDF module is included. While it may warrant consideration if seeking a free word processor or office suite, individuals requiring more than basic functionality may find it excessively limited.  

The Personal plan offers a competitive rate of $39.99 per year for a single user license, while the Family plan encompasses six user licenses for $59.99 per annum. Both plans include a comprehensive array of applications for Windows, iOS, and Android operating systems accompanied by extensive PDF functionalities and 50 gigabytes of cloud storage capacity. Additionally, there is a complimentary seven-day trial period. The Home & Business plan offers lifetime access through a one-time payment of $99.99 and encompasses the complete Windows or Apple software suite and five gigabytes of cloud storage. 

OfficeSuite: The competition

Within the realm of office productivity software, OfficeSuite distinguishes itself for its user-friendly interface and competitive pricing. For entities seeking enhanced data control or the seamless integration of a comprehensive office suite into their proprietary software, OnlyOffice emerges as a compelling server-based solution. With a starting price of $1200, OnlyOffice accommodates up to 50 simultaneous connections. For organizations utilizing Mac-based systems, iWork stands out as a prime choice, offering both cost-effectiveness and advanced collaborative capabilities. 

OfficeSuite: Final verdict

While there is no shortage of free alternatives available, individuals who are willing to pay for the reasonably priced subscription will be able to generate visually appealing text documents and engaging slideshow presentations, as well as perform relatively advanced data analyses. If one can do without live collaboration tools and advanced word processing features such as citation management, handwritten notes, and embedded charts, this is an otherwise comprehensive office suite that is also compatible with Microsoft Office. 

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Founded in 2015, Samsara is a market leader in complete fleet tracking solutions. Samsara offers a combination of IoT devices and AI to provide real-time visibility and accurate analytics to a wide range of customers, including transportation and logistics companies, field services, food production, energy, construction, local governments, and manufacturing.

Headquartered in San Francisco, with additional offices in San Jose, Atlanta, and London, Samsara emerges as a prominent player in the realm of fleet management. By leveraging the power of cloud computing, Samsara offers a comprehensive solution that empowers businesses to streamline and optimize the management of their vehicles and assets.

Through its advanced platform, Samsara enables real-time tracking, monitoring, and analysis of fleet operations, providing valuable insights that drive efficiency, safety, and cost savings. With its intuitive interface and robust features, Samsara caters to a wide range of industries, including transportation, logistics, construction, and field services.

Samsara's global presence and impact are underscored by its extensive workforce of over 2,200 employees and a vast customer base spanning tens of thousands of businesses worldwide. The company's platform processes a staggering volume of data, exceeding 6 trillion data points annually, highlighting its significant role in the digital transformation of fleet management.

Samsara offers a free trial before purchase and even has a dedicated team to help you build a custom solution that meets your specific needs. Additionally, Samsara is compliant with ELD regulations and is FMCSA approved.

Samsara: Pricing

Samsara's pricing model includes an upfront hardware cost and a monthly subscription fee that covers the software license.

Although specific pricing is not available on the Samsara website, it does state that there are costs such as an initial hardware investment and an annual license fee. There is a contact portal that asks for basic information on fleet size and needs. The "Get a quote" button requires a business email address to proceed (and annoyingly when I entered my work email address, it still did not proceed asking for a valid work email). Samsara could simplify this process by providing a direct email contact for pricing inquiries, rather than requiring potential customers to navigate the portal, providing the requested info, and not getting a price.

Samsara's upfront hardware cost can range from $129 to $399 per device, depending on the specific product. Although unconfirmed, customer reports on online forums indicate that monthly software license fees range from $13 to $30.

The company's pricing structure is based on several factors, including fleet size, business type, service levels, and specific requirements. Unlike some competitors who do not charge upfront fees, Samsara's upfront fee covers the hardware cost over time.

Samsara, a company that specializes in fleet management solutions, offers potential clients online demonstrations showcasing the cost-saving benefits of their platform. These demos specifically highlight how Samsara's technology can lead to improved fleet efficiency. One key area of focus is reducing vehicle idling time, which can result in significant fuel savings and decreased operational costs for businesses that manage fleets of vehicles.

Samsara: Features

Samsara, a leading fleet management solution, stands out in the industry due to its advanced features and capabilities. One of its key features is the provision of real-time traffic updates and optimal route suggestions. By utilizing this information, fleet managers can ensure that their drivers reach their destinations on time, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and overall operational efficiency.

Moreover, Samsara's software offers comprehensive monitoring capabilities that go beyond simple vehicle tracking. It allows fleet managers to monitor unnecessary stops, driver behavior, and overall fleet performance. Additionally, the software can generate reports on vehicle breakdowns and fuel waste, enabling fleet managers to identify areas for improvement and optimize fuel consumption.

Unlike many standard fleet management apps, Samsara boasts a wide range of hardware integrations. These include dashcams, which can be used to monitor driver behavior and improve safety, as well as wireless sensors, which can be used to track various vehicle parameters. Furthermore, Samsara's paper digitization feature allows for the seamless integration of paper-based documents into the digital workflow.

In addition to its hardware integrations, Samsara also offers extensive third-party software integrations. This allows for seamless compatibility with a wide range of existing software solutions, including payroll systems, CRM platforms, TMS software, route planning tools, inventory management systems, and fuel card providers. By integrating with these systems, Samsara can provide a comprehensive and holistic fleet management solution that maximizes the benefits for businesses.

Samsara: Support

Samsara, a company that provides a connected operations cloud, offers multiple channels for customer support. Primarily, they have a 24/7 support center that can be reached through a contact portal, accessible after logging in. This online support portal is unfortunately the only option for direct customer support, as phone support has been discontinued, which may be inconvenient for some customers. Additionally, there are no other direct support options available, such as fax or chat. The lack of alternative contact methods and the absence of information regarding response times might leave customers feeling uncertain about the efficiency and effectiveness of Samsara's customer support.

While the direct support options could be enhanced, Samsara excels in providing self-help resources. They offer a comprehensive FAQ section, instructional videos, and webinars that can assist users in resolving common issues and questions independently. Moreover, Samsara maintains an active presence on social media platforms. Their Facebook page is regularly updated with relevant information, and their YouTube channel consistently publishes new content, demonstrating their commitment to engaging with and supporting their customers through various channels.

Samsara: Final verdict

Samsara emerges as a frontrunner in the fleet management domain, offering an extensive suite of solutions that cater to diverse operational needs. Its core offering encompasses GPS tracking, enabling real-time location monitoring and geofencing capabilities. Vehicle telematics provide in-depth insights into vehicle health, performance, and utilization, facilitating predictive maintenance and reducing downtime.

Driver safety is another focal point, with features like AI-powered dashcams, driver behavior monitoring, and real-time coaching to mitigate risks and enhance driver performance. Compliance management is streamlined through automated workflows, ELD compliance, and HOS tracking, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and minimizing violations.

Fuel management tools optimize fuel consumption through route optimization, idle time reduction, and fuel theft prevention, leading to significant cost savings. Maintenance management is also simplified, with proactive maintenance scheduling, automated service reminders, and real-time visibility into maintenance history.

To experience the platform's capabilities firsthand, Samsara offers a free demo, allowing potential customers to explore its features and evaluate its suitability for their specific requirements. The company also places a strong emphasis on compliance and adheres to stringent industry regulations, ensuring data security and privacy.

Samsara's commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is further validated by its A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau since 2019, a testament to its ethical business practices and reliable service.

In essence, Samsara presents a holistic fleet management solution that harnesses cutting-edge technology and data-driven intelligence to optimize fleet operations, elevate safety standards, and drive greater efficiency. By providing actionable insights and automating key processes, Samsara empowers fleet managers to make informed decisions, reduce operational costs, and achieve sustainable business growth.

More on fleet management and tracking:

• The best fleet management software and services
• How to choose the best fleet management software for your business
• Everything you need to know about fleet management 

Remote Desktop Manager by Revolutions is a top choice for remote desktop software. It provides remote computer access across networks along with various security and convenience features like centralized password management, one-click connections, two-factor authentication, and role-based access controls. Additionally, it is compatible with Android and iOS mobile devices. If you're considering this tool for screen sharing in your business, you might want to check out our in-depth Remote Desktop Manager review.

Remote Desktop Manager: Plans and pricing

Remote Desktop Manager's pricing varies depending on usage and the number of licenses needed. The software is free for individual users, such as solo IT managers. However, access to team features like role-based access controls and shared databases is restricted. Nonetheless, users can still remotely access networked computers across their business and use the software's built-in password management tools.

For IT and helpdesk teams, licenses start at $324.99 per user per year. Businesses also have the option to purchase a sitewide license for an unlimited number of users at a cost of $9,999.99 per year.

It's worth noting that Devolutions, the company behind Remote Desktop Manager, offers enterprise-scale solutions and lifetime licenses as well. For pricing options on these, reaching out to the company directly is necessary.

Remote Desktop Manager: Overview

Remote Desktop Manager is a powerful software designed to centralize all your connections, passwords, and remote working tools into a single platform. This manager makes it easy to handle a wide range of technologies, including RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol), SSH (Secure Shell), VPNs (Virtual Private Networks), Web, VNC (Virtual Network Computing), and more. 

Primarily intended for IT departments, RDM supports a collaborative environment and offers a secure way to store, share, and manage remote connections and virtual machines. Compatible with Windows and macOS, Remote Desktop Manager is aimed at professionals who can control remote servers or workstations, offering both efficiency and security.

Remote Desktop Manager makes remote computer access seamless. The software includes an integrated password manager, enabling you to open remote connections in just one click. Suppose you are already using a password manager. In that case, Remote Desktop Manager will likely work with it, as it integrates with around a dozen of the most popular tools, including Dashlane and LastPass.

Importantly, Remote Desktop Manager is capable of accessing much more than just networked desktop computers. You can use the software to manage cloud accounts with Amazon S3, Dropbox, Microsoft SQL Azure, and more, all from a single interface. Remote Desktop Manager also supports linking to server systems, network drives, and just about any other network tools your business might be running.

Another advantage to this platform is the encrypted, centralized vault that stores login credentials for different services across your network. Remote Desktop Manager supports role-based access to this vault, allowing administrators to control which IT technicians can access which parts of the network. That’s a major help for large businesses that have multiple IT teams working across different departments.

Remote Desktop Manager: Setup 

Setting up Remote Desktop Manager is fairly quick, depending on the size of your network and whether you need to create tiered access to a credential vault.

The best place to start after installing the program is to add your network data into the system for quick access in the future. Some of this can be automatically imported using a variety of add-ons, but you’ll probably end up entering a fair amount of information by hand. Thankfully, the data categories are well organized and searchable.

What takes a little bit longer is setting up a centralized vault for your IT management team and creating access roles. That’s because you’ll not only need to set up a vault and add users but also generate login credentials for each of them and set the access parameters for different roles.

Still, the process is relatively smooth and won’t take more than a few hours for IT teams running a small network. IT administrators that need to coordinate managers across multiple departments may spend up to a few days working out access issues and creating sub-vaults.

Remote Desktop Manager: Interface and performance 

It’s hard not to love the interface of the Remote Desktop Manager desktop app. We tested it on a Windows computer, and it feels extremely intuitive, with the menu bar mimicking the design of Windows File Explorer. On top of that, you can have an unlimited number of tabs open to manage multiple simultaneous connections in a single window. 

Even better, Remote Desktop Manager is available on iOS and Android mobile devices. Unsurprisingly, the mobile apps are significantly more limited than the desktop platform, and you wouldn’t want to use them for your initial network setup. But, they’re straightforward to use if you need to access passwords or to change user permissions on the go.

As for performance, we didn’t notice any significant lag when using Remote Desktop Manager on Windows 10. The platform launched in under 10 seconds, and connecting to a local network drive was nearly instantaneous. Just beware that the software itself is bulky—around 550 Mb—and used upwards of 22% of our available processing power when testing remote desktop control.

Remote Desktop Manager: Security 

Remote Desktop Manager takes network security extremely seriously. We’ve already talked about role-based access, which is essential for preventing unauthorized access. But, this remote desktop connection manager also supports security measures like two-factor authentication through Duo or Google Authenticator. You can even lock down the software before you walk away from your computer.

Better yet, IT administrators get access to audit and activity logs. These keep track of all login attempts that use credentials from Remote Desktop Manager-linked password managers or the central vault. 

Remote Desktop Manager: Support 

Devolutions provides phone and email support for Remote Desktop Manager by phone and email. The support team is available from 8 AM to 5 PM Eastern, five days a week. 

If you need help outside those hours, you have a couple of different options. First, check the online documentation, which is rich with tutorial videos. If that doesn’t have an answer for you, Devolutions also publishes a 1,100-page user manual for Remote Desktop Manager. Finally, the company runs an online community forum where you can ask other IT professionals for help.

Remote Desktop Manager: Pros and cons

There’s a lot to love about Remote Desktop Manager and a few things that might cause you some concern. Honestly, however, there’s more pros than cons. 

Pros include: 

1.  Centralization: RDM centralizes all remote connections on a single platform, simplifying access and control over various interfaces and systems.

2.  Security Features: It boasts powerful security features, including credential management, role-based access control, and auditing capabilities, which ensure that all remote sessions are both secure and compliant with company policies.

3.  Integration Capabilities: Remote Desktop Manager integrates well with over 60 third-party applications, including password managers like LastPass and KeePass, and online services such as Dropbox and Google Drive.

4.  User-Friendly Interface: The interface is intuitive. Users find navigation easy, allowing users of all tech levels to manage their resources efficiently.

5.  Session Management: It enhances workflow by managing multiple sessions with tabs and dockable windows, much like a web browser, plus it supports remote machine data entries.

6.  Team Collaboration: RDM excels in environments where teams need to collaborate as it supports multiple users and permits the sharing of remote session settings with stringent security.

Cons:

1.  Complexity for Small Teams or Individuals: For smaller teams or individual users, RDM might be overwhelming due to its extensive suite of features and capabilities which they may not need.

2.  Cost: While it offers a free edition, the full benefits of RDM are realized through its paid versions, which might be a significant expense for smaller organizations or startups.

3.  Resource Heavy: Some users report that the software can be resource-intensive, especially when managing several connections simultaneously. This might affect performance on less powerful machines.

4.  Learning Curve: Despite its intuitive user interface, the sheer number of features and settings can be daunting for new users, requiring some time to fully master.

5.  Dependency on Internet Connection: Like many remote management tools, a stable and robust internet connection is crucial for RDM to function effectively, which can be a limitation in areas with poor connectivity.

Remote Desktop Manager: Final verdict 

Remote Desktop Manager is well-suited for managing remote connections and credentials, particularly for medium to large IT departments. Its centralized approach, robust security features, and team collaboration capabilities can significantly improve productivity and operational security.

However, potential users should carefully consider the tool's cost, resource usage, and complexity before deciding to implement it to ensure it meets their requirements. Smaller teams or individual users may find more streamlined tools to be a better fit.

Adopting Remote Desktop Manager should be based on a thorough assessment of your organization's managerial and technical needs. Its extensive features, designed for efficient management and secure operations, position it as a top choice in connection management solutions.

Remote Desktop Manager is one of medium to large businesses' best network management solutions. Including role-based access controls is particularly beneficial for IT administrators overseeing multiple teams across departments. Additionally, the wide range of integrations means you won't need to transition from existing password managers or authentication systems completely. On the other hand, smaller IT teams are likely to find that Remote Desktop Manager is excessive for simpler helpdesk and screen sharing needs.

The competition 

The closest competitors to Remote Desktop Manager are TeamViewer and AnyDesk. Both of these platforms are much less expensive than Remote Desktop Manager, especially if you only have a handful of IT managers. But, they’re much more limited in scope as well.

For example, TeamViewer gives your entire IT team remote network access for just $99 per month. But, that price only allows you to have one open session at a time. Getting three simultaneous sessions costs $199 per month. Remote Desktop Manager offers unlimited sessions at that price, although only for a single user.

AnyDesk is a bit more robust, as it supports unlimited concurrent sessions for $52.99 per month. But, the software is more oriented around enabling access to network computers than to also controlling cloud server connections. Small businesses may find that AnyDesk is a good alternative if you don’t need everything that Remote Desktop Manager offers.

To see how Remote Desktop Manager compares to other software on the market, check out our guide to the Best remote desktop software.

What to look for in a remote desktop solution

When considering an ideal remote desktop solution, it's essential to prioritize several critical features and factors to ensure seamless and secure access to your work from any location. To begin with, robust security measures are paramount. Look for a solution that offers end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security updates to safeguard your data from unauthorized access. Additionally, prioritizing ease of use is crucial. The software should feature a user-friendly interface that doesn't require extensive IT expertise to navigate, ensuring a smooth user experience.

Performance and reliability are also crucial considerations. Ensure the solution provides a seamless experience with minimal latency, even on slower connections. Compatibility is also vital. Look for software that supports various operating systems and devices, offering a consistent experience across all platforms. Furthermore, collaboration features such as file sharing, chat functionality, and supporting multiple users simultaneously can significantly enhance productivity.

Administrative tools and support are equally crucial for effectively managing the software, controlling access permissions, and receiving timely assistance during troubleshooting. Lastly, balance is vital when it comes to cost and features. Consider options that provide all necessary functionalities without exceeding your budget. Scalable solutions that can grow with your needs are also advantageous, avoiding needing a more comprehensive solution as your business expands.

In remote access solutions, LogMeIn Pro stands out with its robust features and reliable performance, catering to a wide range of users. With its secure and user-friendly interface, LogMeIn Pro provides professionals worldwide with seamless remote computer access. However, how does it perform in real-world scenarios, and is it the right choice for your needs?

LogMeIn Pro is a strong contender for those seeking business-oriented remote desktop software. It offers numerous business-focused features centered around secure desktop remote access and control. As a dedicated business solution, LogMeIn Pro surpasses many competitors, especially those that offer limited versions for home users. LogMeIn Pro provides unlimited user access, 1TB of file storage, support for multiple monitors, and top-notch security.

This blog post will explore LogMeIn Pro's advantages and disadvantages and identify the users who can most benefit from its features.

 LogMeIn Pro: Plans and pricing

LogMeIn Pro offers different packages to cater to various users. 

1. Individual Package: Priced at $30 per month, this package is designed for lone users and provides access to up to two computers. It includes remote access, unlimited users, remote printing, 1TB file storage, multi-monitor display features, and the new LogMeIn Antivirus option.

2. Power Users Package: Priced at $70 per month, this package is suitable for users needing access to up to five computers. It includes all the features of the Individual Package and adds three free licenses to LastPass Premium for easier password management.

3. Small Businesses Package: Priced at $129 per month, this package is best suited for larger businesses as it allows access to 10 computers and includes five free licenses to LastPass Premium.

LogMeIn Pro: Features and utilities 

LogMeIn Pro is ideal for IT professionals and support teams who need robust security and comprehensive remote access features. It provides scalable solutions for companies of all sizes, allowing employees to work remotely or manage a distributed workforce. 

Additionally, LogMeIn Pro offers seamless access and file transfer capabilities for graphic designers, architects, and video editors who require access to high-powered desktop applications from remote locations. 

Educators and administrators can also use LogMeIn Pro to access school computers remotely, making it easier to work from anywhere or assist students and faculty with IT issues.

Users praise LogMeIn Pro for its range of features and functions, designed for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Its split display offers a straightforward preview of files and their locations, while drag-and-drop efficiency makes file and folder management more convenient than sending content via email. The program is also responsive, with an engineered setup for swift progress and a Wake On LAN feature for asleep computers. 

Whiteboard Drawing and Screen Record options, along with Multi-Monitor Support, round out its arsenal of features, offering users added flexibility and productivity.

LogMeIn Pro: Setup 

We explored both of the setup options within the LogMeIn Pro configuration area and either makes for a quick and easy route. You’ll need to install the LogMeIn Pro Control Panel on the machine you wish to access. The LogMeIn Client software can be installed on Mac or Windows computers, along with iOS or Android devices too. We’re talking a few minutes to get this setup completed, making LogMeIn Pro very competitive in the no-hassle stakes.

LogMeIn Pro: Interface and performance

Considering its beefy set of features and functions, LogMeIn Pro is actually really easy to use and much of this is down to its simple interface. If you're new to the software it’s useful to try out the Getting Started tab, which helps you familiarize yourself with many of the everyday tools. It’ll get you connected in no time. 

Similarly handy is the way it’s possible to send an invitation to a colleague, allowing them to view or control your machine as and when it’s needed. Abuse of this feature can be easily prevented too, thanks to a secure, time-sensitive link option, which limits the period of remote access. 

Client side access provides a view of all available computers and the subsequent access that is available. Another solid aspect here is the way that everything is nicely synced, including if you access via a mobile device or simply a desktop computer. LogMeIn Pro has been around long enough now that all of this is delivered painlessly and very efficiently too, again with little in the way of lag.

LogMeIn Pro: Security 

Being secure in a remote desktop access environment is another big consideration when choosing the right package for your business. LogMeIn has been in existence for years, so it’s fair to say that the levels of security continue to be excellent too. Host and client communications, and everything going backwards and forwards, is protected under the umbrella of SST/TLS (OpenSSL) security, which is akin to that used in the banking world. 

We’re also big fans of the LogMeIn Pro attention to detail when it comes to wider security. For example, unusual activity or failed log in attempts can be sent to you, or an IT manager as alerts. Similarly, managers can revoke user permissions when needed, either on a one-to-one basis or across an entire company user base.

LogMeIn Pro: Support 

If you’re a company owner or someone in an IT department that needs to deal with staff on a daily basis then support is always a plus. In that respect, LogMeIn Pro is especially appealing as it continues to offer telephone support. It can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Better yet, it’s available in over 15 different languages, which makes LogMeIn Pro one of the best remote access options out there in that respect. 

On top of that excellent support, LogMeIn Pro comes with plenty of user guides, articles on how best to milk its inner most secrets and, if all that wasn’t enough, there are community forums. Having been around for a while now, it’s safe to say that help and advice is always there if you need it. 

LogMeIn Pro: Pros and cons

When analyzing LogMeIn Pro, it's important to consider its various advantages and shortcomings.

LogMeIn Pro stands out for its seamless remote access capabilities, allowing users to effortlessly reach their desktops, files, and applications from anywhere, at any time. This high level of accessibility empowers professionals to remain productive, regardless of their location.

Security is a top priority in remote access, and LogMeIn Pro excels in this area. With robust 256-bit AES encryption, multi-factor authentication, and optional IP whitelisting, users can have peace of mind knowing that their remote sessions are well-protected against unauthorized access.

The software simplifies the transfer and sharing of files between remote and local computers, promoting collaboration among team members. This feature is especially beneficial for professionals who frequently work with large files or sensitive information.

A unique aspect of LogMeIn Pro is its remote printing capability, which allows users to print documents from a remote computer to a local printer. This functionality is convenient for professionals who need to print documents for meetings, presentations, or record-keeping.

For businesses with multiple users, LogMeIn Pro offers intuitive user management features. Administrators can easily add or remove users, assign specific computers, and set permissions, allowing for efficient management of remote access privileges.

Despite its comprehensive feature set, the pricing of LogMeIn Pro may deter some individuals and small businesses. The cost is higher compared to some competitors, so potential users should carefully assess the value it brings to their specific use cases.

Although LogMeIn Pro has an intuitive interface, some users may encounter a learning curve in fully utilizing all the advanced features it offers. Businesses may need to invest time in training employees to maximize the tool's potential.

While LogMeIn Pro generally provides stable and reliable remote access, users on slower internet connections might experience performance issues, such as latency or decreased video quality during remote sessions. This is an important consideration for users with specific connectivity requirements.

LogMeIn Pro: The competition 

Anyone looking for the best remote desktop access products will not be able to bypass LogMeIn Pro, but there are plenty of alternatives worth considering. That’s especially so if you’re not overly enthralled by the pricing of LogMeIn Pro’s three bundle options. A better value option may be Zoho Assist, which has an enterprise package that offers plenty of flexibility on the connectivity front, but for little in the way of outlay. 

Elsewhere, Remote Desktop Manager isn't cheap, but offers up lots of more sophisticated options for IT departments that need to manage differing levels of access more precisely. Zoho Assist is also good in that respect and that even has plenty of tools for offering customer support options too. Nevertheless, if you're happy to pay for the privilege, LogMeIn Pro will more than meet the needs of many businesses.

LogMeIn Pro: Final verdict 

One of the most appealing aspects of LogMeIn Pro is the excellent level of customer support. If you're an overburdened IT manager, this feature alone will probably convince you to give it a try. LogMeIn Pro also offers a great set of features and functions, making it universally appealing, especially with its strong security features that come as part of the package. However, the packages are quite pricey.

LogMeIn Pro stands out as a premium remote access tool, offering a mix of accessibility, security, and advanced features. Though its cost may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is justified for users who need a reliable, secure, and feature-rich remote access solution. By carefully considering the pros and cons, as well as their specific operational needs, potential users can make an informed decision on whether LogMeIn Pro is the best choice for their remote access needs. Whether you are an IT professional, a business owner, or a creative professional, LogMeIn Pro provides the tools and flexibility to keep you productive, no matter where you are.

What to look for in a remote desktop solution

Remote desktop solutions are indispensable tools for businesses in today's increasingly digital and flexible workplace. They allow employees to access their work environment anywhere. When evaluating remote desktop solutions for business use, several key considerations must be made to ensure that the chosen system meets your company's needs.

Security should be at the forefront of any decision-making process regarding remote desktop software. It's crucial to look for a solution that offers robust security features such as end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security updates to safeguard sensitive company data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.

Reliability is another critical aspect. Businesses should opt for a solution that guarantees high uptime. Solutions with a proven track record of minimal downtime will ensure your team can work efficiently without interruptions. This can often be assessed through service level agreements (SLAs) and by checking the provider's history regarding reliability and system maintenance.

Ease of Use influences how quickly your team can adapt and efficiently use the remote desktop application. The software should have an intuitive interface, straightforward connectivity processes, and compatibility across multiple devices and platforms. This ensures that staff can access their work regardless of their location or the technology they have at hand.

Performance is also an essential factor, as it impacts productivity. Look for solutions that promise fast connections with low latency and high-quality graphics rendering, mainly if your team works with graphics-intensive applications.

Scalability must be considered as your business grows and evolves. An excellent remote desktop solution should easily accommodate increasing users and seamlessly integrate with your current IT infrastructure without requiring significant upgrades or overhauls.

Customer Support offered by the provider is another pivotal consideration. Access to 24/7 customer support and technical assistance can drastically reduce downtime and resolve issues promptly, minimizing the impact on your business operations.

Cost-effectiveness plays a role in the final decision. Price structures vary widely, and businesses should analyze upfront and ongoing costs concerning the features offered. It is essential to balance the functionalities you require and the price you are willing to pay without compromising on the crucial features outlined above.

In summary, when looking for a remote desktop solution for your business, prioritize security, reliability, usability, performance, scalability, customer support, and cost-effectiveness. By carefully evaluating these aspects, businesses can select a solution that enhances productivity and aligns with operational requirements and strategic goals.

Regarding remote desktop access, Chrome Remote Desktop is a popular choice for many users. It offers convenient and accessible solutions for both personal and business use. Although it may have some limitations for business purposes, its user-friendly interface and its free use still make it a compelling option.

In our comprehensive review of Chrome Remote Desktop, we have delved into its features, ease of use, and overall performance, comparing it with similar tools in the market. While there are paid alternatives with additional features, Chrome Remote Desktop's convenience and accessibility make it a strong contender and the top choice for those seeking a free remote desktop access solution.

Chrome Remote Desktop: plans and pricing

Chrome Remote Desktop is free, with no perks, subscriptions, or other premium content. To set up remote desktop access, you will simply be prompted to sign into your Google account.

The program is available as a Chrome extension, so it can be used on any computer that supports Chrome. You can pair the target computer with another computer or with a mobile device running iOS or Android.

Chrome Remote Desktop: features and utilities

Chrome Remote Desktop provides several helpful features that streamline the experience and enable cross-device functionality. While using a desktop from another location can introduce some logistical problems, Chrome Remote Desktop makes it easy to avoid most common issues.  

For example, if you’re using a mobile device, you can switch to keyboard or trackpad mode through the menu button on the lower-left corner. The app also includes dedicated menu options for Ctrl-Alt-Del and Print Screen.

We tested Chrome Remote Desktop by accessing a 2015 iMac through an iPhone SE. Unfortunately, the app was missing critical keys like Command, Control, and Option, so many important keyboard shortcuts were simply unavailable.

On the other hand, you should be able to use your computer remotely without any issues on another desktop or laptop. You can reconfigure key mappings as long as both devices have a physical keyboard. That said, Chrome Remote Desktop doesn’t let you transfer files between devices.

There’s also an option for Remote Support, which gives remote users a one-time code to access a desktop in order to troubleshoot any issues. This enables IT professionals to quickly fix problems without being physically present or receiving ongoing access

Chrome Remote Desktop: setup 

To set up Chrome Remote Desktop, start by downloading the browser extension on the computer you want to access. You can find the extension in the Chrome Web Store. After installation, you’ll be able to use remote desktop features through a button in the top-right corner (next to the favorites icon).

Once the extension is installed, you’ll only have to enter the name of the desktop along with a PIN to start accessing the computer remotely. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust permissions to give access to remote devices.

Of course, you should install Chrome Remote Desktop on any devices you want to use to access your desktop. You’ll be able to view all remote devices from the desktop or mobile app as long as every device is signed into the same account.

Chrome Remote Desktop: interface and performance 

Chrome Remote Desktop is highly responsive, with only a small delay as long as you’re using a strong internet connection. In our tests, the remote device was consistently within one-quarter of a second of the original display. The entire experience is extremely smooth, and videos look nearly identical on both screens. 

The program itself has a minimalist feel, with just a few functions and menus. In the desktop app, for example, the only options are to edit your computer’s name and PIN, connect to remote support, and ask for help. Since it runs on Google Chrome, you won’t be able to use it through any other browser. 

Chrome Remote Desktop: security 

Chrome Remote Desktop requires a PIN every time you try to access a device remotely. You can set and change PINs for each individual device. PINs have to be at least six characters long, but they only need to contain numbers. 

For Remote Support, the app provides a one-time access code which expires after the first connection. Users are asked to confirm that they still want to share their screen once every 30 minutes.

Chrome Remote Desktop: support 

To access the Help Center, just click “Help” in the desktop or mobile app. This page offers a simple guide for setting up remote access, sharing your computer, or removing the application. 

If you’re still having trouble, you can also search the Help Community for similar issues or post your own question. While there’s an option to send feedback about the Help Center itself, there’s no way to contact Google directly for one-on-one support. Fortunately, most community posts get at least a few helpful replies. 

Chrome Remote Desktop: pros and cons

Google Chrome Remote Desktop is renowned for its straightforward setup process. It can be effortlessly installed as an extension within the Chrome browser, ensuring quick and convenient access. This user-friendly setup is particularly comforting for individuals who may not be tech-savvy.

One of Google Chrome Remote Desktop’s main advantages is its free use. This makes it an excellent option for individuals or small businesses needing remote access but limited IT resources.

Google Chrome Remote Desktop is designed to be compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chromebooks. This cross-platform support ensures that it can adapt to different hardware and software environments, making the audience feel accommodated.

Security is a crucial consideration when accessing a device remotely. Google Chrome Remote Desktop uses a secure connection, combining AES encryption and a PIN to access the desktop, providing a layer of security to protect your data.

Since it operates within the Chrome browser, no additional software is required to start the remote desktop session. This minimizes compatibility issues and reduces the hassle associated with software installation and maintenance.

Google Chrome Remote Desktop has fewer features than other remote desktop solutions like TeamViewer or Microsoft Remote Desktop. It does not offer file transfer, session recording, or remote printing capabilities, which may be a drawback for advanced users.

The performance of Google Chrome Remote Desktop heavily relies on the internet connection quality. If the connection is unstable or slow, it can significantly affect the usability and responsiveness of the remote desktop, making it challenging to work smoothly.

As the name suggests, Google Chrome Remote Desktop works exclusively within the Google Chrome browser. This might be limiting if you prefer using a different browser or encountering issues with Chrome.

In terms of functionality, Google Chrome Remote Desktop may not be suitable for larger enterprises that require detailed administrative controls, monitoring capabilities, and enhanced security protocols. Such enterprises need sophisticated management tools to manage a large number of machines remotely.

Chrome Remote Desktop: final verdict 

Chrome Remote Desktop provides excellent performance and accessibility for accessing a remote Mac, Windows, and Linux desktop. Although the mobile app doesn't offer all the same features, it's still a decent option for remote desktop access. Chrome Remote Desktop's Remote Support tool is well-suited for support situations. 

However, the application's lack of features like drag-and-drop file transfers, remote printing, and live chat between devices makes it less efficient in some scenarios. Additionally, live support is not available if you encounter any issues. Overall, Chrome Remote Desktop is a simple option but lacks several critical features for various business needs. 

Google Chrome Remote Desktop is a free and accessible solution ideal for individuals or small businesses requiring primary remote access. While it provides benefits such as ease of use, cross-platform support, and security, it may not suit users needing advanced features like file transfers, administrative controls, or those managing large IT infrastructures. Choosing the right tool will depend mainly on your specific needs and the scale at which you need to operate.

Chrome Remote Desktop: the competition 

The main advantage of Chrome Remote Desktop over similar options is its free cost and convenience. You can easily share your desktop using Chrome and access it on various devices using your existing Google account. However, it does lack some key features that are available in paid solutions.

For instance, RemotePC allows drag-and-drop file transfers between host and client computers, and users can print documents stored on the remote desktop without transferring them to the computer they’re physically using. Like many other paid solutions, RemotePC also offers 24/7 support to help troubleshoot the application and resolve any issues.

To find our more about Chrome Remote Desktop's competition, read our Best remote desktop software guide.

What to look for in a remote desktop solution

In today's interconnected world, accessing a computer remotely has become convenient and essential for many businesses and individuals. Remote desktop solutions bridge the gap between geographical distances, enabling support, file access, and even full-scale operations from afar. However, with many options available, what should you zero in on when selecting remote desktop software? Here's a comprehensive guide.

Ease of Setup and Use: A complex setup can be a deterrent. Look for a solution that offers a straightforward installation process and an intuitive user interface. The less time you spend figuring out how to use the software, the more productive you'll be.

Quick Connectivity: Establishing a connection with minimal steps is crucial. Some remote desktop solutions offer features like 'unattended access' that allow connections without requiring someone to be physically present at the host machine to accept them.

Versatility: An ideal remote desktop solution should accommodate various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and even mobile platforms like Android and iOS. This ensures you can connect across devices without compatibility issues.

End-to-End Encryption: Given the sensitive nature of accessing a device remotely, encryption is non-negotiable. Look for robust encryption solutions to guard against unauthorized access and data breaches.

Authentication Mechanisms: Advanced authentication options such as two-factor authentication (2FA) or one-time access codes add layers of security, reducing the risk of compromise.

Speed and Responsiveness: A remote desktop tool should provide a seamless experience, mimicking the experience of using the host computer directly as closely as possible. High performance, without lag, is essential, especially for resource-intensive applications.

Stable Connection: Frequent disconnections or unstable connections can significantly impede productivity. A reliable remote desktop application maintains its performance even under less-than-optimal network conditions.

File Transfer: Quickly transferring files between the host and remote device is crucial for efficiency. Ensure the software supports straightforward, drag-and-drop file transfers.

Multi-Monitor Support: A remote desktop solution should allow users who use multiple monitors to access all screens without cumbersome workarounds.

Session Recording: This feature, useful for training and security purposes, allows you to record activities performed during a session for later review.

Customer Support and Resources: Even with the most user-friendly software, you might encounter issues or have questions. Look for a provider that offers comprehensive support through various channels, such as live chat, email, or phone. Additionally, a robust knowledge base or community forums can be invaluable resources.

Pricing and Licensing: Analyze the cost relative to the features offered. Some solutions provide free versions with limited capabilities, which may suffice for individual use or small teams. However, evaluating the total cost of ownership, including any subscription fees or additional charges for premium features, is essential for larger organizations or specific needs.

Choosing the right remote desktop solution requires balancing your needs against what's available. Before deciding, consider ease of use, cross-platform support, security, performance, features, support, and pricing. A deliberate choice upfront can save you from future frustrations and ensure a smooth, secure, and efficient remote work experience.

KWFinder by Mangools is a keyword research tool primarily designed to find long-tail keywords with low difficulty. Additionally, it provides extensive insights into keyword metrics, including search volume, keyword difficulty, and SERP analysis, which helps build a winning SEO strategy. It is a valuable tool for digital marketers, SEO experts, content creators, and website owners as it helps to enhance a website’s visibility. But, there is a lot that you must know about this tool before trying your hands on it.

That’s why this review focuses on examining its efficiency as a keyword research tool. We'll look at its features and user-friendliness and assess how it compares to other SEO tools to help you decide if KWFinder is the right tool for your SEO strategy or not.

• You can sign up to KWFinder here.

KWFinder: Plans and pricing

KWFinder offers four different plans. The Entry plan is ideal for beginners interested in trying out the basic features. This plan has limited access to essential features, including 25 keyword research per day, 25 SERP lookups, 50 keyword suggestions/searches, 50 keywords per import, etc. The price for this plan starts at $29 per month.

Next up is the Basic plan which comes with increased credits for various scans including 100 keyword research per day, 100 SERP lookups, 200 keyword suggestions/search, 200 keywords per import, unlimited track domains, 100,000 backlink rows per month, etc. Ideal for bloggers who work independently or small website owners, this plan starts from $49 per month.

The Premium plan provides 500 keyword research per day, 500 SERP lookups, 700 tracked keywords, 700 keywords per import, etc. It also offers Unlimited keyword suggestions/search, competitor keywords/search, and tracked domains. Ideal for small businesses or freelance SEO professionals, this plan starts from $69 per month.

Lastly, the Agency plan is ideal for large-scale companies or SEO agencies.

This top-tier plan has 1200 keyword research per day, 1200 SERP lookups, 1500 tracked keywords, and 700 keywords per import with 1,200,000 monthly backlink rows. On top of it, just like the Premium Plan, it also offers Unlimited keyword suggestions/search, competitor keywords/search, and tracked domains. The price for this plan starts at $129 per month.

KWFinder: Features

User Interface

With a simple and easy-to-navigate UI, KWFinder proves to be a great choice for bloggers and newcomers who prefer an organized layout. Compared to other keyword research tools we have tried, KWFinder is much easier to get used to. You can easily switch between services like keyword search and domain search, find out where your traffic is coming from, apply filters, etc. You can even distinguish between paid and organic searches and view details on click-through rates, price per click, and many more.

Keyword Research and Suggestions

Apart from its strong research capabilities, the tool is especially good at finding long-tail keywords that have low SEO difficulty. This is great for content creators looking to improve their search engine rankings. It further provides useful metrics like search volume, trend information, and a keyword difficulty score.

However, KWFinder does have some limitations. It mainly focuses on Google, so insights for other search engines are not as comprehensive. This can be a disadvantage for marketers who target platforms other than Google. Additionally, some users may find the daily search limits on the lower-tier plans to be restrictive, especially when working on large-scale SEO campaigns or while managing multiple clients.

SERP Analysis

One of the primary services of KWFinder is its super-powerful SERP Analysis. It gives you a snapshot of different key metrics like Page Authority (PA), Domain Authority (DA), Citation Flow (CF), and Trust Flow (TF) for each top-ranking page. This is vital when you want to analyze your competitor’s strengths. Along with this, you even get the estimated visits that the top pages receive for the keyword, giving you a clear picture of the traffic potential.

During the analysis, KWFinder also shows the Link profile, which is the number of external backlinks pointing to a page. Apart from these metrics, you can also analyze the social engagement of these pages through “Social Signals,” which can help you determine the content's popularity and engagement. Lastly, you can check the difficulty score for a keyword in this segment and do a quick quality check to assess your content throughout the website.

Competitor Analysis

Using this tool, users can check their competitors' ranking keywords and gain valuable insights into their content strategies. You can access SERP Checker metrics from Moz, Majestic, and other social shares by simply navigating to the "Analyze SERP" tab on the dashboard, and you are good to go. Such metrics include domain authority, backlinks, Facebook shares, visits, flow/trust flow, etc. In fact, you can choose from over 50 plus available metrics in this section.

Local SEO

If you’re running a small business and want to target an audience in that region, KWFinder goes a step ahead and delivers some top-notch local SEO support. First, you get to conduct keyword research for specific cities, towns, or even countries. This is crucial for businesses targeting customers in particular geographic areas. Additionally, you could also utilize the SERP Analysis feature to see who your competitors are in the targeted area and what kind of content ranks well. Be it the search volume, competitor analysis, or even your routine SEO analysis, KWFinder caters to all sorts of scans in a local region too.

KWfinder: Free tools

KWFinder by Mangools also comes with a range of free SEO tools to help seasoned and beginner SEO professionals make the most of their websites.

Browser extension

KWFinder’s browser extension provides a range of SEO metrics on your browser itself to give you a quick SEO analysis. It comes in very handy when you need to analyze websites quickly and without manually entering a search on the tool. This extension includes information on keywords, backlinks, and page authority, all giving a comprehensive overview without the hassle of switching between different apps and websites. The extension is especially beneficial for on-the-go research and competitor analysis. Plus, this tool saves your time and increases work efficiency.

 SERP simulator tool

The SERP simulator tool is a helpful resource that shows you how your webpage could look in search results. It shows you the title, meta description, and URL so you can make them as catchy as possible before your page is live. This tool is super helpful for fine-tuning your SEO elements to make sure your pages are not only search engine-friendly but also user-friendly and attractive in search results. Being able to see and make changes in real time makes the SERP Simulator an essential tool in the SEO toolbox.

SERP Volatility tracker

The SERP Volatility Checker helps you keep an eye on any changes happening in search engine result pages. It notifies you about important updates or changes in search algorithms. This is really important for staying ahead in the SEO game. It lets you know when you need to make changes to your strategies or see how they are impacting your website's performance.

KWFinder: Performance and reliability

Performance-wise, KWFinder shines with its quick and efficient search capabilities. The tool's interface is a highlight, characterized by its straightforwardness and ease of use, eliminating the need for extensive learning curves.

When it comes to reliability, KWFinder consistently delivers. Our tests found that the tool offers spot-on search volume estimates and keyword difficulty ratings that align well with actual search engine outcomes. This level of accuracy is crucial for users seeking dependable data to guide their keyword selection efforts.

Moreover, KWFinder offers features such as historical search volume trends, SERP analysis, and localized search results, which are invaluable for users aiming to tailor their SEO efforts to specific markets or time frames. Its ability to filter keywords by criteria such as search volume, CPC, and competition level helps SEO experts efficiently pinpoint the most relevant opportunities.

KWFinder: The competition

KWFinder faces tough competition, especially from established competitors like Semrush, Ahrefs, and Moz. Semrush is known for its wide range of SEO tools, including site audits and competitor analysis. Similarly, Ahrefs is strong in backlink analysis and has a great keyword research tool. On the other hand, Moz is popular for its easy-to-use interface and offers various SEO tools like keyword research and link-building strategies. Each competitor has its own strengths, so it isn't surprising for users to have a change of mind due to their specific needs and preferences.

KWFinder: Support

KWFinder’s tech team is available 24/7 through email and live chat for quick help. This is great for users present in different time zones or for those who work till late. And, if you’re a nerd who likes to learn everything in and out about SEO, KWFinder offers lots of technical guides and blogs.

The FAQs and knowledge base on KWFinder's website have enough information to help you solve problems, learn about new features, or improve your use of the tool. Also, KWFinder has a YouTube channel with detailed videos and tutorials, all guiding you to make the most of this keyword research tool.

KWFinder: Final verdict

KWFinder stands out as a user-friendly and efficient tool for keyword research, especially appealing to beginners. Plus, with an easy-to-navigate interface, finding and assessing keywords becomes effortless, too. This makes it a strong contender among the giant SEO brands available in the market. While it is an excellent starting point for those new to SEO, its keyword cap can be a limitation for more extensive searches, pushing advanced users towards higher plans or alternatives.

To sum up, KWFinder offers a balance of simplicity and powerful research features, making it a valuable tool for SEO experts of all levels. Which is your favorite feature of KWFinder, and what do you expect from it next? Let’s carry the conversation in the comments below.

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