Alternatives to HopToDesk
Free, open-source remote desktop tool with end-to-end encryption, file transfer and live chat. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.
The original
HopToDesk
Free, open-source remote desktop tool with end-to-end encryption, file transfer and live chat.
Replacements
Listings that take over the same core job as HopToDesk.
RustDesk
An open-source remote desktop tool you can point at your own relay server instead of somebody else’s cloud.
RustDesk is also open source, under AGPL-3.0, and lets you host your own relay servers, though it lacks an iOS client and Pro features cost extra.
AnyDesk
Fast remote desktop tool with low latency and simple session codes.
AnyDesk covers the same platforms with low-latency sessions, but is closed source and requires a paid license for commercial use.
TeamViewer
Remote access and remote support across desktop and mobile platforms.
TeamViewer covers desktop and mobile platforms, but is closed source and requires a paid licence for commercial use.
AnyViewer
Remote desktop software from AOMEI for accessing and supporting computers from a PC, Mac or phone.
AnyViewer offers free personal access with unattended access and mobile apps, but it is closed source, has no Linux client and charges for team features.
DWService
A free, open-source remote access service that lets you reach computers from a web browser.
DWService is free with an open-source agent and a browser-based controller, relying on DWService servers and lacking mobile apps.
HelpWire
A free remote support service for connecting to and controlling Windows, macOS and Linux computers.
HelpWire is a free remote support service for Windows, macOS and Linux, but it is closed source with few published technical details and no mobile apps.
Supremo
Lightweight remote desktop software for remote support and unattended access on PC and Mac.
Supremo is closed source with no Linux client, free only for personal occasional use, with custom branding on paid plans.
Iperius Remote
Remote desktop and remote support software for Windows, macOS, Linux and mobile devices.
Iperius Remote adds 2FA, Wake-on-LAN, session recording and rebranding, but is closed source and requires a paid licence for commercial use.
Also worth comparing
These listings name HopToDesk as their own alternative, so the relationship runs both ways.
AeroAdmin
Portable remote desktop tool for Windows that connects over the internet without installation or configuration.
HopToDesk is free and open source, allows unlimited commercial use, and adds end-to-end encrypted chat and file transfer across desktop and mobile platforms.
Chrome Remote Desktop
Google's free remote desktop service for reaching and controlling your computers from a web browser.
HopToDesk is free and open source with end-to-end encryption, file transfer and chat, and runs as native apps instead of through a Google account.
Dayon!
An open-source Java remote assistance tool for watching and controlling a family member's or friend's computer.
HopToDesk is free and open source with end-to-end encrypted screen, chat and file transfer, needs no Java runtime and adds Android and iOS apps.
DeskIn
Remote desktop app for controlling another computer, offered as a free download and mobile apps.
HopToDesk is free and open source with end-to-end encryption and apps for desktop and mobile, including commercial use without limits.
Quick Assist
A Microsoft app for sharing a Windows or macOS screen with a helper over a remote connection.
HopToDesk is free and open source with end-to-end encryption, file transfer and chat, and runs on Linux and mobile as well.
ToDesk
Remote desktop software for remote control, file transfer, gaming and support across desktop and mobile.
HopToDesk is free and open source, including for commercial use, with end-to-end encryption, file transfer and chat across desktop and mobile platforms.
UltraViewer
A lightweight Windows remote desktop tool for supporting clients by controlling their computer.
HopToDesk is free and open source with end-to-end encryption and chat, supports Windows XP and mobile, and allows unlimited commercial use.
Similar software
Related functionality, not a direct replacement.
MeshCentral
A self-hosted remote monitoring and management server with web-based remote desktop, terminal and file transfer for every machine you run an agent on.
Zoho Assist
Cloud-based remote support and unattended access software for IT teams, help desks and MSPs.
ScreenConnect
Remote support and remote access software from ConnectWise, available as a cloud service or on-premises.
