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Chrome Remote Desktop: Free Remote Access With a Google Account

Chrome Remote Desktop · for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS and Web

Developer: Google (opens in a new tab)

Free
  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android
  • iOS
  • Web
DownloadFrom the official source · Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS and Web (opens in a new tab) Official website (opens in a new tab)

The download link points to the program’s official source; the file is not hosted on this site. Link address: remotedesktop.google.com

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Chrome Remote Desktop is a free remote access tool from Google. A computer running Windows, macOS or Linux can be set up as a host through the Chrome browser and reached from another computer or from the Android and iOS apps.

2 min read

Chrome Remote Desktop is the simplest way to reach your office PC from home if you already have a Google account. There is no license to buy and no commercial-use restriction to worry about.

Two ways to use it

  • Remote Access: Set up your own computers once and connect to them whenever you like, protected by a PIN.
  • Remote Support: Generate a one-time code so someone else can help you, or enter their code to help them. Each code works for a single session.

Setting up the host computer

  1. The Download button opens remotedesktop.google.com.
  2. Sign in with your Google account in Chrome (or another Chromium-based browser).
  3. Under remote access, click the download option. This installs a small host component for Windows, macOS or Linux.
  4. Name the computer and choose a PIN of at least six digits.

To connect, open the same site on another computer, or use the Chrome Remote Desktop app on Android or iPhone, and pick the computer from your list.

Things to know

  • The host computer must be switched on, awake and online.
  • On macOS, you need to grant screen recording and accessibility permissions for remote control to work.
  • Features are basic: there is clipboard sync and file transfer, but no advanced IT management tools.

For a browser to run it in, see Google Chrome. For support teams that need more control, TeamViewer and RustDesk offer richer features.

Pros

  • Free, including for work use
  • Simple setup with a Google account
  • One-time codes for quick support sessions

Cons

  • Fewer features than dedicated support tools
  • The host computer must stay awake and online

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chrome Remote Desktop free for business use?

Yes. Google offers it at no cost and does not separate personal and business use. Organizations using Google Workspace can manage it through admin settings.

Do I need Chrome on both computers?

The host is set up through a browser, and the viewer can be a browser or the mobile app. A Chromium-based browser is recommended.

Chrome Remote DesktopFree

Download (opens in a new tab)

TeamViewer

TeamViewer connects you to a remote computer for support or access. Download it from the official site, connect with an ID, and know the personal-use rules.

Freemium

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android
  • iOS

RustDesk

RustDesk is a free, open-source remote desktop app that can use your own relay server. Downloading the client and when the paid Server Pro makes sense.

Open source

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android
  • Web

AnyDesk

Connect to another computer with AnyDesk using its ID. Installing or running it without setup, safe-use habits, and when a paid license is required.

Freemium

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android
  • iOS

Dropbox

Install the Dropbox desktop app for a synced folder on Windows, Mac or Linux. The free Basic plan gives 2 GB on up to three devices; here is what else it does.

Freemium

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android
  • iOS
  • Web