Need a better alternative to TeamViewer? Perhaps a tool with improved security and a better package? I hear you.
TeamViewer is a popular remote access tool. However, it has issues that are frustrating users over the year. I remember the time when the company cut short the remote connections and restricted user access due to suspected commercial use. Plus it was expensive. I was a user and used to wish they offered something similar to Spectrum Internet Assist. It’s an Internet plan for those who cannot afford to pay $100 or more in the name of Internet bills.
What could be a better alternative to TeamViewer? My experience tells me it’s AnyDesk.
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AnyDesk (A TeamViewer Alternative)
After days of doing research and spending hours testing different programs, I found AnyDesk. It’s a valuable alternative. It’s packed with tons of features for accessing devices remotely from any location. My favorite thing about AnyDesk; it’s one of the fastest data transmission rates with 60 FPS screen sharing. It doesn’t have a low latency rate either. Your actions are transferred to a remote-controlled device immediately. This makes file sharing feel more natural.
Another wonderful feature is that it supports all major platforms: Linux, macOS, Windows, Android, and iOS.
AnyDesk uses banking standard TLS 1.2 technology with RSA 2048 asymmetric encryption for verifying each connection. This ensures that the PC of the user is protected from unauthorized access. It has also added new features such as file browser mode, unattended access for macOS, session recording, custom alias, and terminal server support. These features make it a powerful tool.
Pros
- Fast data transmission
- Cross-platform
- Low latency
- 2MB in size
- Packed with rich features
Cons
- Lacks screen drawing feature
Price: It has a free version and a paid version. The price of the paid plan starts at $79 per year.
Platforms: Windows, Android, Linux, iOS, macOS, and Raspberry Pi
AnyDesk Security Features
The software encrypts the connections with the TLS 1.2 key. This key is responsible for authenticating the identity of the origin server. It is also used for generating session keys. This is a standard security protocol used by banks and applications supporting sensitive data transfer.
AnyDesk is effective in detecting modifications in the signals. In case of a modification, it aborts the connection for security reasons. Sometimes, it’s the firewall or security programs that are not fully configured for allowing AnyDesk connections. In this scenario, manual configuration is required.
You can view the encryption mode in use, client fingerprint, and verification status during the session. Just hover the mouse over the lock icon in the status bar.
Session Security
The software establishes end-to-end encryption on connections by default. This means the session data is distributed directly without any intermediary. Security features in the session data include:
- Under the customize AnyDesk tab are a variety of advanced settings to customize the program.
- Clients with an unattended password are allowed to connect to another client.
- Pre-configured modules can be created for customers and service support.
- The program only supports salted password hashing. It does not store passwords.
Access Control List
The across control list ensures only authorized entities can request opening a session. You can whitelist particular IDs and namespaces. AnyDesk Custom Client and Access Control List features can be used in combination as well. This way, customers who are getting support through AnyDesk receive session open requests by clients of the corresponding vendor only. If a third party sends session requests, they are blocked automatically.
Exclusive Unattended Access
You can create a custom client using the Unattended Access feature. This allows the client to be accessible by the vendor who owns the unattended password. Here also, the third-party session requests are blocked automatically.
On-Premises
AnyDesk offers support for highly secured environments as well. The self-hosted on-premises solution is designed for that. It’s fully operational offline.
Which Businesses Can Use AnyDesk?
AnyDesk is designed for small to mid-size businesses. It comes with a built-in address book for tracking your contacts and connections. You can also view their online status. The program enables enterprises to perform tasks, share files, and connect using less bandwidth. It’s perfect for areas with a poor Internet connection. It also supports remote reboot, automated billing and invoicing and session reporting.
TeamViewer Vs AnyDesk
AnyDesk is very convenient for light remote access. It’s highly compatible. Its security features are advanced. No unauthorized user can snoop into the session. The software blocks third-party requests automatically before they reach the user. You can expect to have an interrupted session that’s fully encrypted using popular protocol and keys.
Final Words
Switching to AnyDesk was the best decision for my business. Just like I happily pay Spectrum bills online, it doesn’t hurt to pay the monthly subscription to AnyDesk’s premium version. This tool is pretty easy to install and use. Your clients will love its user-friendliness. Try its free version to figure out if it’s the right solution for your business.