Desktop sharing is not just the expert field of tech professionals anymore. Whether you want to show how an application works or simply to explain things on someone else's PC, you'll need to find a way to share desktops easily.

TeamViewer offers a simple way of creating desktop sharing sessions with other users whether on a distant PC, local connection or over the internet. Both users will each have an ID and password with which to connect to their session.

Taking control of another PC is a great way to solve issues from a distance and demonstrate things on a desktop without actually being there physically. TeamViewer also allows file transfer and includes a chat function to communicate with your contact.

You can also record sessions and play them back afterward. These can then be used as tutorials or to go back on what you've done in previous sessions.

If you dig in the details you'll be able to choose not only whether to optimize quality or speed, but also configure the amount of access you want to give to your desktop.

The free version of TeamViewer has a number of limitations, and lacks a number of modules like the TeamViewer manager or customer module. If you want more features you'll have to be ready to pay at least €159 for higher end versions.

TeamViewer is a good program to quickly share desktops with another user. The free version will let you create secure sessions and control what you show to your contact over the internet.

Download TeamViewer 3.6.4889 in Softonic

WinRemotePC for Windows is remote control/administration software. WinRemotePC offers industry leading performance and security. It allows you to quickly and easily access your server, home or office computer remotely anywhere.

With WinRemotePC, you can see the desktop of a remote machine and control it with your local mouse and keyboard, just like you would do it sitting in the front of that computer.You can also transfer files between machines, copy data via the Windows clipboard, and more.

WinRemotePC has two parts, a client and a server. The server is the program on the machine that shares its screen, and the client (or viewer) is the program that accesses and interacts with the server. It displays the screen of remote computer and transmits the keyboard presses and mouse clicks from the local computer to remote transfering data over a network.

Download WinRemotePC 2008 r.2 Lite in Softonic

Computer remote access comes in very handy when you need to control your home PC from work and viceversa. It's also a fast, efficient way to help a friend –or even your customers- with software installation and configuration. But remote control apps are usually difficult to use and hog system resources.

Well, not anymore: now LogMeIn makes remote control easier than ever by providing you a simple, fast and free tool to access your PC from anywhere. Just download the client and create an account on their website, and you're ready to go.

The client should be installed and launched in the computers you want to access remotely. Then all you need to do is start your session in the LogMeIn webpage and you'll have immediate access to your computer. You'll be able to manage files, transfer data from the local machine to the remote machine and viceversa (only during the first 30 days, though) and even control the desktop and mouse in the remote PC, with a surprisingly quick response to mouse movements. You can create various users with different privileges or open your remote session temporarily to a guest user, so that he or she can see what you're doing on the PC.

On the downside, image resolution is obviously not very high when remote controlling (forget about viewing photos in the remote PC). Also, the Java-based file manager looks a bit sloppy but that's probably due to Java itself. In all, I think LogMeIn is one of the best free remote control apps I've tried.

Download LogMeIn Free 4.0.732 in Softonic

If you’re a bit of a computer whiz, then you probably often get asked by friends and family to sort out their latest PC disaster. However, if you live far apart, have a busy lifestyle or can’t get there easily physically, you might find Crossloop a godsend. There are many applications out there that allow you to share desktops but perhaps none that do it more easily and simply than Crossloop.

CrossLoop is basically a free secure screen sharing utility designed for people of all technical backgrounds so you don’t need to be a geek to use it. It allows you to connect to another user's computer and share their desktop without having to change any firewall or router settings. This is obviously perfect if you need to find out why someone is having problems with their PC or if you just want to simply share information with them.

The key to this program’s appeal is its simplicity. In fact, the developers claim you’ll be sharing desktops within 60 seconds of installation. After installing CrossLoop, you will see a welcome screen with two tabs. Select the ‘Join’ tab if you would like to connect and control a friend's PC. Select the ‘Host’ tab if you would like to temporarily share access to your PC. This host tab contains an important 12-digit access code that your friend will need to enter to connect to your PC. Obviously, the only requirement is that your friend has Crossloop installed too to initiate a session. Once done, you’re ready to go. A separate window opens with your friend’s desktop and you can tinker to your hearts content.

There’s not much you can do to customise such a simple program but the developers have recently spiced up the tabs with some new skins such as Aqua, Jungle, Nebula and even Pink Lemonade. The most recent release features a completely new design and they've extended the networking community functions. Now you can create your own profile where you can view your login history and rate those that have helped you. For those that are really handy, you can also receive a Crossloop "badge" and advertise your services on the site - great for IT support professionals.

Obviously, the main concern with such P2P connections is security. However, the developers maintain that all sent information is highly encrypted with a128-bit algorithm using the randomly generated 12-digit access code mentioned earlier. There’s no need to worry about anyone accessing your PC without permission either – a popup requesting permission from you alerts you before any information is exchanged.

The only real drawbacks of Crossloop are that as yet, it doesn’t offer file sending or a chat function. This is not a disaster because you can always use a separate instant messaging application to do this but these features would be the icing on the cake. Nevertheless, Crossloop really is an excellent application for what it offers. The fact that it is free only adds to its appeal, considering similar programs such as Copilot charge anything up to $5 for 24 hours of use. However, the popularity of this program means that the developers may start charging for it soon: so take advantage of it now whilst it's free!

To keep up with the latest developments with Crossloop, don’t forget to check the developer blog.

Download CrossLoop 2.11 in Softonic

EchoVNC takes control of the screen, the desktop and keyboard of a computer using the VNC protocol.

Both the appearance of the programme and the way it works resemble the popular UltraVNC and there's a good reason for that - it's basically the next evolution of the latter. The key difference is that EchoVNC allows you to bypass awkward router configuration allowing you to avoid messing around with proxies to make connections. This saves you hours of wasted time messing around with setting up NAT services and virtual servers on your router. Of course, if you're comfortable with router configuration, then this program will not really benefit you but the fact remains that many UltraVNC users aren't and EchoVNC will come as a godsend to them. It's also worth noting that accompanying this major improvement, there is the integration of a chat client server, a system for transferring files, several new viewing modes and the ability to record the screen activity in a SWF file.

A new chat client, new viewing options and automatic router configuration make this an essential for UltraVNC fans.

Download EchoVNC 2.32 in Softonic

AstroShare gives you the power to share out your computer to a viewer. Statistics shows you the amount of used memory, how much data has been sent and read on the current connection and average connection speeds.

The program boasts a number of impressive tools and allows you to share your desktop using a port number, computer name and password. Once shared this window shows you the machines local IP address.

Also available from the "Share" menu is the "Sound Settings..." menu item which allows you to start Voice over IP and pause the remote display and use of your desktop. If you are behind a firewall and want access to your desktop from the WAN or public internet you'll have to ask your system administrator to port forward to your IP.

Download AstroShare 1.83 in Softonic

If you working on a team project, then it's much easier to share and collaborate on projects by working in real time rather than sending documents by e-mail. Microsoft SharedView allows you to do this in a fairly straightforward way.

In some ways, this is also a more glorified version of NetMeeting. Microsoft SharedView allows you to hold bigger meetings and conference calls with connections to 15 people in different locations. You can share, review, and update documents with multiple people in real time. If you're already an MSN Live user, the good news is you can also use your Passport Network, Hotmail, and MSN logins to sign in to SharedView.

However, note that audio support is still not available with this beta version. If you want audio during a SharedView session, you can use a telephone call or an instant messaging program that supports Voice over IP

This is a simple program that gives Google Docs a run for it's money although the fact that you have to install it, leaves it a slight disadvantage compared to the former.

Download Microsoft SharedView 8.0.3328.0 Beta in Softonic

Yuuguu is a basic IM client with a very special feature that you will hardly find in other similar tools: it enables you to share your desktop with your friends while you're chatting with them.

When I say share I don't mean sending a screenshot of your desktop over to your friend. It means establishing a connection between you and letting them view your screen in real time. There's even the option of sharing the keyboard and mouse, so that your friend can remotely control your computer.

The concept is very good, as it enables anyone –even novice users- to use a remote controlling application. Yuuguu is certainly very easy to use and comes in very handy when you need to help your parents, friends or customers with a computer issue.

However, the IM client is way too simple and it wouldn't hurt to have a few more options. The main issue about the program is undoubtedly speed. Connection is extremely slow, so very slow that it makes remote controlling really difficult.

Yuuguu is a simple, easy-to-use IM application that features desktop remote control.

Download YuuGuu build 793 Beta in Softonic

SSHVnc codifies VNC communication with the secure SSH protocol enabling you to remotely control a desktop with the peace of mind that nobody can intercept the packages that are sent.

It's a complicated process to secure a VNC connection via SSC so this is a deceptively powerful program. In a very light package, SSHVnc automatically carries out this job with absolutely no need to know anything about Secure Socket Shell connections (SSH).

The program is handled as a third party client-servant of VNC. You have control over the method of codification, the compression ratio, and other minor security features. It has a ton of other configurations that allows you to customise the type of connection you are attempting to make. The problem with this however is that unless you've got in depth knowledge of establishing remote connections, you may find yourself lost. There are very few instructions which does not help matters.

However, if you need to establish a secure remote SSL connection to a remote desktop, this is a good starting point.

Download SSHVnc 0.1.3 in Softonic

ShowMyPC combines VNC remote access technology with an open-source SSH forwarding client to provide you with the option to allow other users to view and control your desktop. The remote user needs to have the same ShowMyPC software and can access your computer with just a password (no IP address needed). The temporary session password is automatically generated when you start the viewing session and must be provided to the remote user by email, phone or other means. If you have access to your own SSH server, you can use it instead of the one provided, but notice than then you will need 3 separate machines to test it, SSH Server, desktop sharer, and a remote viewer.

Take a look at what ShowMyPC features:

• No registration, no login, just download and start. Ideal for IT support/meetings
• One shared desktop PC can have multiple remote viewers
• ShowMyPC can access remote PCs across firewalls
• Works through 99% of the firewalls, for now no proxy support
• Based on Open plink SSH client and RealVNC
• No Passwords are kept on any central SSH server

Download ShowMyPC 3.0 in Softonic

With GetByMail you can stay at home and have access to your office computer and vice versa simply through your e-mail account. You can get remote directory listings and tree view, download/upload files and directories, perform change dir, make dir, rename and delete operations, capture remote computer desktop screens, run remote applications, shutdown, reboot and logoff remote computer. During download/upload operations files and directories are automatically compressed and split into small pieces to assure that you will get a reliable transmission.

GetByMail gives you a unique ability to share files on your computer with other people simply through e-mail. It is an excellent solution if you want to share files with people who do not have access to FTP, P2P or are behind firewalls. With a help of GetByMail you can get through the firewall without any hassle.

Download GetByMail 2.0.1.18 in Softonic

WallCooler gives your the power to easily access and use all of your applications and files in real time on any remote computer or network, as well as stay connected with your digital life by listening to anything stored on your remote PCs. Overcome the boundaries of geography, space and time: stay tuned with your digital life like never before.

Full VPN: small & powerful

All the features of a full hardware VPN solution. Access remote LAN and local networks at the same time (no need to switch).

Access office LANs from anywhere

Full access to the remote LANs, as if you were connected via a network cable. Connect to remote resources or servers using either a DNS/Netbios name or an IP address.

Access home computers

WallCooler is bi-directional: each computer running WallCooler has access to the remote networks. Thus home computers are accessible with WallCooler and an Internet connection.

No configuration: 100% software

Works with existing firewall & router settings (No need to configure your corporate firewall, router, nating...) No server or hardware required.

Secure & Fast

Industry standard SSL encryption & authentication. Fast relay service, data compression & very high thoughput

Download WallCooler 1.1.153 in Softonic

iRemotePC is a revolutionary Remote Desktop Viewing, File Transfer and Web Conferencing service. It allows you secure and full view of your remote computer's desktop from virtually anywhere using just a web-browser. Features include invite guests to PC, direct desktop file sharing, file manager with synchronization, computer management and web conferencing! Built to work securely behind Firewalls and NAT.

iRemotePC offers you unrestricted secure access and full view of your home/office PC via any web-browser from a distance. With iRemotePC, you have the ability to see and work on your PC in real-time and have immediate access to your files, emails and programs.

Download iRemotePC 1.4 in Softonic

Need to edit a contract? Look at the latest sales report? Show a prospect that presentation? If it’s on your PC, and your PC is connected to the Internet, simply log onto Avvenu from your mobile device or from another computer, select the computer you want to browse, and navigate to the file you need. Then choose whether to share it with a colleague or download it to your mobile device to read or to edit.

With Avvenu, your mobile device gives you secure access to any document or image on your computer, whatever its size or file type. Avvenu automatically formats images to match the device you are using, so you get fast response time and convenient viewing. Since you’re linking directly to your computer, there’s no waiting for e-mail transfers or uploads. And, because there are no file-size restrictions, you can share that 50MB Powerpoint file, or even a whole folder of them.

Download Avvenu 2.4 in Softonic

Remote Support lets you support any PC on the internet through firewalls and NAT routers. You can provide full on-demand remote control help desk support, transfer files, chat, re-boot & auto-reconnect and control a remote user's workstation in real-time without pre-installing software on the remote computer. You can even reboot the remote computer into "Safe Mode".

Download Remote Support System 1.7.0 in Softonic

GRC is a software for the gmail users which allows them to command their pc in a remote way, sending only an email to their Gmail account (from whichever computer or hand phone). GRC does not require any installation operation, you must only extract the file from the zip compression and execute the GRC.exe Insert username and password of your gmail account and click on Sign in... GRC will wait instructions. Each 60 seconds it will check if new instructions have arrived throught email.

Download GMail Remote Command 1.0 in Softonic

VNC stands for Virtual Network Computing. It is remote control software which allows you to view and interact with one computer (the "server") using a simple program (the "viewer") on another computer anywhere on the Internet.

The two computers don't even have to be the same type, so for example you can use VNC to view an office Linux machine on your Windows PC at home. VNC is freely and publicly available and is in widespread use throughout industry, academia and privately.

Download RealVNC Free Edition 4.1.3 in Softonic

Ever wanted to demonstrate something on another person's PC? If you've got Bosco's Screen Share, it'll be much easier than you think.

This application allows you to share computer screens on different platforms (Mac or PC) wherever they are. Bosco's Screen Share includes a useful setup menu which will help you set up a connection with the other computer you want to share with. You can even set privacy levels and choose who dials the other.

Bosco's Screen Share becomes very useful, if you want to show somebody how to do something on their screen or make a simple demonstration to a client. It's particularly useful if you're a software developer and want to demonstrate how your software works but don't want to prepare a video.

One of the drawbacks of the application is that it lets you share screens but doesn't actually let you share or transfer documents and files. On the other hand, because you can access your contact's screen, you almost don't need to transfer files.

Bosco's Screen Share is a very intuitive and useful application to share screens anywhere, from any platforms easily.

Download Bosco's Screen Share 3.0 in Softonic

Features:

• Need access to your computer from a restrictive work internet connection?
• Tired of drawn out phone calls helping people with computer problems?
• Need a remote conferencing and demonstration platform that doesn't cost the earth?
• Find other remote control solutions clumsy and slow?
• Want a no-ads, no-spyware FREE solution to all of the above?

SimpleDesktop uses a revolutionary new method of navigating a remote computer through a window making using a computer either in a window or full screen a real possibility.

Download SimpleDesktop 2.8 in Softonic