Portable Apps For Mac 2018

• Portable Gimp.app Home page > OS X Portable Applications > Portable Gimp.app Portable Gimp.app is the binary distribution of the GNU Image Manipulation Program for Mac OS X packaged as portable application so you can take your preferences with you.
• The Best Tech and Apps for Your Home Office. Updated November 19, 2018. Portable hard drive. 2 TB Seagate Backup Plus Slim Our pick. IPad, and Mac. It’s a nice-looking app with support for iCloud, Google Calendar, Exchange, and other services. The flagship feature is natural language parsing. Type or dictate a full sentence,.
• Fortunately, almost all of our top password managers can sync across all of your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices. A few even let you authenticate on iOS or Android with your fingerprint.

1. Free Portable Apps For Mac
2. Portable Apps For Mac 2018 Update
3. 2018 Best Mac Applications
4. Macbook Apps 2018
5. Portable Apps For Mac And Pc
6. Portable Apps

Portable apps, as opposed to traditional software, don’t require installation onto a computer. Their entire data set sits nicely in one folder, and terminate completely once closed. Whether you prefer using them for a clean machine or like to carry around a flash drive with loads of programs, portable apps are pretty awesomeHow Portable Apps Can Make Your Life Easier & Save ResourcesHow Portable Apps Can Make Your Life Easier & Save ResourcesIf you frequently switch computers and have cloud storage space or USB drives to spare, here's an idea: outsource your applications.Read More.

We’ve collected the best portable appsThe Best Portable Apps That Require No InstallationThe Best Portable Apps That Require No InstallationPortable apps don't need installation. You can run them from even a flash drive. Here are the best portable apps around.Read More, but there are so many more out there. Grab your spare flash driveAre USB Flash Drives Still Worth It In 2015?Are USB Flash Drives Still Worth It In 2015?USB flash drives are great for storage, but they have so many other uses. Here's how they're worth their weight in gold.Read More or empty cloud storageTop 10 Creative Uses For Dropbox Or Other Cloud StorageTop 10 Creative Uses For Dropbox Or Other Cloud StorageThe agility, flexibility, and low-cost scale ups turn cloud storage options into more than an online vault to back up your documents and files. But cloud storage is more than these important but mundane uses....Read More and fill it up with this mega-list of 100 portable apps. You’ll find tools to satisfy every software need, categorized by type.

Microsoft Office 2018 the latest updated version free download available for Windows 7 and Windows 10 is an official product of Microsoft Inc and is also released for smartphone mobile device especially for Android Android Lollipop and Marshmallow OS.

Check out PortableApps.com’s Platform to make the installation easy.

Accessibility (3)

• Balabolka — Text-to-speech program for reading on-screen text aloud.

• On-Screen Keyboard — Lets you enter text without a keyboard; perfect if your computer’s keyboard isn’t workingLearn To Navigate Windows Without A Mouse, Keyboard Or ScreenLearn To Navigate Windows Without A Mouse, Keyboard Or ScreenYou just spent hours labouring over an important document when your keyboard dies on you. Would you know how to save your work, exit programs, and shut down your computer? We'll show you.Read More.
• Virtual Magnifying Glass — Screen magnifier to give your eyes a breakAre You Nearsighted or Farsighted? Tips to Make Windows More Accessible for Young & OldAre You Nearsighted or Farsighted? Tips to Make Windows More Accessible for Young & OldComputers use print that's too small, your eyesight changes, you get headaches, and the computer gets called a lot of dirty names. Consult this guide to Windows Accessibility tools for some stress relief!Read More.

Audio and Video (9)

• AIMP — Portable music player and library manager.
• Audacity — The best free audio editing and recording program.
• Avidemux — A basic video editor for light tasks.
• CDEx — Extracts audio from CDs.
• cdrtfe — All-in-one CD and DVD burner.
• DamnVid — Video converter and downloader, with many websites supported.
• gPodder — Podcast manager that lets you download your favorite shows.

• MusicBrainz Picard — Music tagger that lets you edit metadata for music4 Fantastic Tools to Manage Your Massive MP3 Collection4 Fantastic Tools to Manage Your Massive MP3 CollectionMusic library management can be an entirely frustrating experience, especially if you have years of unorganized music waiting to be sorted and labeled properly. Poor music library management will come back and bite you later...Read More.
• VLC Media Player — The best media player5 Best Free Media Players for Windows5 Best Free Media Players for WindowsThe best media player for you is the one you most enjoy using. Here are the best free media player apps to consider on Windows.Read More that can handle any audio or video format imaginable.

Development (5)

• Database Browser — Lets you connect to and manage any database, anytime.
• Frhed — Small hex editor.
• Notepad++ — An awesome alternative to Notepad with highlighting, tabs, and more.

• Pencil Project — Prototyping tool to mock up Android, iOS, web, and more apps.
• XAMPP — Complete portable server with Apache, MySQL, and phpMyAdmin in one package.

Education (8)

• Artha — A full thesaurus, no internet connection needed.
• Celestia — Lets you virtually travel into space to check out planets and stars.
• GoldenDict — Dictionary and encyclopedia tool that lets you research words from multiple sources.
• Gramps — Genealogy softwareUnmissable and Free Family Tree Software for LinuxUnmissable and Free Family Tree Software for LinuxYou've heard about family tree software, such as Family Tree Maker, and plenty of alternatives are on Linux! If you're looking for a genealogy program for Linux, start with these suggestions.Read More that assists with researching and mapping your family tree.

• Marble — Offers a virtual globe for learning about Earth.
• Mnemosyne — Flash card software for memorizing anything.
• Solfege — Helps musicians practice chords, scales, and more.
• TIPP10 — Teaches you to touch type.

Games (14)

• 2048 — The addicting number game where you must combine numbered titles to build up to 2048.
• A Dark Room — An adventure game that takes place entirely through text3 Tools to Create Your Own Text Adventure Games3 Tools to Create Your Own Text Adventure GamesWant to try making your own text adventure game? Here's your chance! These three tools will help you create your own complex and playable story.Read More.
• Atomic Tanks — Blow up enemy tanks using a selection of crazy weapons.
• Big Solitaires 3D — Collection of 40 solitaire games; perfect if you’ve mastered Windows SolitaireCelebrating 25 Years of Microsoft Solitaire: The History, Rules & a TournamentCelebrating 25 Years of Microsoft Solitaire: The History, Rules & a TournamentSolitaire - the preserve of procrastinating office workers and bored housewives - is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and Microsoft is commemorating it with a group tournament. We re-visit the history and rules of the game.Read More!
• Canabalt — The father of endless runner games.

• Freeciv — Strategy game in which you build your empire in the stone age and advance it to the space age.
• LBreakout2 — The classic game of Breakout. Use your paddle to bounce a ball into a wall of blocks.
• Lucas Chess — A chess game that teaches you to play10 Creative Ways to Supercharge Your Chess Training10 Creative Ways to Supercharge Your Chess TrainingGetting better at chess is normally about deliberate practice over many disheartening games, so let's look at few of the ways you can bring fun and creativity into your chess training.Read More through increasingly difficult opponents and training exercises.
• Mines-Perfect— The classic game of Minesweeper with extra board shapes added.
• Monster RPG 2 — A nostalgic role-playing game in the style of Super Nintendo classics.
• PokerTH — Grab your sunglasses and play Texas hold ’em poker against computer players or others online.
• Scorched 3D — Control your artillery and battle your enemies in 3D.

• Sudoku — The popular numbers puzzle game with several difficulties and automatic game saves.
• The Legend of Edgar — A retro-styled 2D platformer.

Graphics (9)

• AniFX — Full-featured mouse cursor editor.
• Caesium — Lets you compress and optimize images10 Free Online Batch Image Tools to Resize, Convert & Optimize10 Free Online Batch Image Tools to Resize, Convert & OptimizeYou need batch editing tools when you have lots of photos to process and very little time. We introduce you to the best batch resizers, optimizers, or converters available online.Read More.
• GIMP — One of the most powerful alternatives to Photoshop15 Free Alternatives to Adobe Lightroom, Illustrator, and Photoshop15 Free Alternatives to Adobe Lightroom, Illustrator, and PhotoshopWould you like to get Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, or Illustrator for free? Here are some of the best Creative Cloud alternatives.Read More for advanced image editing.

• IcoFX — Icon editor for making cool custom images for folders or files.
• Inkscape — Vector image editor that provides a free alternative to Adobe Illustrator.
• IrfanView — Popular image viewer that offers so much more than the Windows default.
• Lightscreen — Basic screenshot tool that provides more than the Snipping Tool.
• PicPick — One of our favorite screenshot toolsThe Best Tools to Grab Screenshots in WindowsThe Best Tools to Grab Screenshots in WindowsAre you often taking screenshots? Upgrade your tool to one that meets your needs. We put several free tools to the test and present the best ones for ease of use, editing, and sharing screenshots.Read More that includes an image editor, color picker, and more.
• RawTherapee — Advanced editor for working with RAW imagesRAW Files: Why You Should Be Using Them for Your PhotosRAW Files: Why You Should Be Using Them for Your PhotosAlmost every article featuring advice for people just learning photography stresses one thing: shoot RAW images. Here's why that's good advice.Read More.

Instant Messaging (5)

• Ekiga — Open-source alternative to Skype6 Open Source Messaging Apps More Secure Than Skype6 Open Source Messaging Apps More Secure Than SkypeSkype has never been the most safe or secure communication protocol, and after Microsoft took over in 2011, concerns over privacy began to pile up. Can these secure, open source alternatives allay those fears?Read More that includes a softphone.
• Mumble — Voice chat software intended for use while gaming.
• Pidgin — A longtime favorite chat clientThe 7 Best Chat Apps and Clients Better Than Official MessengersThe 7 Best Chat Apps and Clients Better Than Official MessengersFrom all-in-one messengers to dedicated chat clients, here are some of the best chat apps to use on Windows, Mac, or Linux.Read More for accessing your AOL, Yahoo, and other accounts all in one place.

• Skype — Everyone is on Skype, so this provides easy video calling and instant messaging to your friends and family.
• Telegram — One of the best messaging apps aroundTelegram Provides a Secure and Fast-Growing Alternative to WhatsAppTelegram Provides a Secure and Fast-Growing Alternative to WhatsAppRead More; it’s secure, speedy, and simple.

Office / Productivity (10)

• CuteMarkEd — A Markdown editor, perfect for writing web-ready contentWhat Is Markdown? 4 Reasons Why You Should Learn It NowWhat Is Markdown? 4 Reasons Why You Should Learn It NowTired of HTML and WYSIWYG editors? Then Markdown is the answer for you no matter who you are.Read More.
• Finance Explorer — A free budgeting software you can take on the go.
• FocusWriter — Lets you write in peace without distractionsHow to Get a Distraction-Free Computer in 10 Easy StepsHow to Get a Distraction-Free Computer in 10 Easy StepsYour attention is consumed by distractions. Remove them to increase your focus and productivity. We show you the most common computer-related time suckers and how to disable or block them.Read More.
• Foxit Reader — Powerful PDF reader and a great alternative to the bloated Adobe ReaderThis Is Why You Don't Need Adobe ReaderThis Is Why You Don't Need Adobe ReaderAdobe Reader is bloated, slow, and a liability. In short, it's unnecessary. Do you need a PDF Reader at all? We show you how to open PDF files without Adobe Reader.Read More.
• LibreOffice — A full-featured Office suite that rivals Microsoft OfficeIs LibreOffice Worthy of the Office Crown?Is LibreOffice Worthy of the Office Crown?LibreOffice is the king of free office suites. It's unlikely to replace Microsoft Office in a business environment, but it's an excellent alternative for casual users. Here's what's new in LibreOffice 5.1.Read More.
• Mozilla Thunderbird — Manage your email and contacts with this desktop client. It’s a great alternative to webmailYou Should Ditch Webmail for a Desktop Email Client If...You Should Ditch Webmail for a Desktop Email Client If...A few years ago, webmail was all the rave. Wonder whether it's time to switch back to a desktop email client? Look no further. We show you the merits of a local mail service.Read More on foreign machines.

• RedNotebook — A journal featuring live search, backup options, and calendar navigation.
• SpeedCrunch — Powerful calculator for any number-crunching needs.
• Stickies — Lets you add as many sticky notes as you want to your desktop.
• ZoomIt — Allows you to zoom in and annotate your screen with a hotkey. Useful for presentations.

Security (7)

• ClamWin — A free antivirusThe 10 Best Free Antivirus SoftwareThe 10 Best Free Antivirus SoftwareNo matter what computer you're using, you need antivirus protection. Here are the best free antivirus tools you can use.Read More for scanning files on any machine. The portable version doesn’t support automatic scanning, so this is for manual scans only.
• Eraser — Securely erase your dataHow to Securely Delete Files From Your HDD or SSD in WindowsHow to Securely Delete Files From Your HDD or SSD in WindowsDid you know files never actually get deleted? That's why they can be recovered; by you or someone else. If this makes you feel uncomfortable, learn how to securely delete files.Read More so nobody can recover it.
• KeePass — If you don’t want to use a web-based password manager like LastPass5 Best LastPass Alternatives to Manage Your Passwords5 Best LastPass Alternatives to Manage Your PasswordsMany people consider LastPass to be the king of password managers; it's packed with features and boasts more users than any of its competitors -- but it's far from being the only option!Read More, this open-source local manager is a great choice.

• PeerBlock — Firewall that lets you block traffic7 Top Firewall Programs to Consider for Your Computer's Security7 Top Firewall Programs to Consider for Your Computer's SecurityFirewalls are crucial for modern computer security. Here are your best options and which one is right for you.Read More by IP address.
• Spybot – Search & Destroy — An anti-malware tool that complements a standard antivirus program.
• TDSSKiller — Removes rootkits.
• VeraCrypt — A successor to the dead TrueCrypt that allows you to encrypt any diskTrueCrypt Is Dead: 4 Disk Encryption Alternatives For WindowsTrueCrypt Is Dead: 4 Disk Encryption Alternatives For WindowsTrueCrypt is no more, but fortunately there are other useful encryption programs. While they may not be exact replacements, they should suit your needs.Read More.

Utilities / Miscellaneous (25)

• Ant Renamer — Powerful tool for renaming filesHow to Batch Rename & Mass Delete Files in WindowsHow to Batch Rename & Mass Delete Files in WindowsAre you pulling your hair out over how to batch rename or delete hundreds or thousands of files? Chances are, someone else is already bald and figured it out. We show you all the tricks.Read More when the File Explorer isn’t enough.
• AquaSnap — Boosts your desktop productivity by adding more window options.
• CamStudio — Easy-to-use screen recorder.
• CubicExplorer — Full-featured alternative to Windows Explorer.
• Dicom — Auto-completes your words for more efficient typing.
• Ditto — Clipboard manager to keep everything you copy6 Free Clipboard History Managers to Track What You Copy & Paste6 Free Clipboard History Managers to Track What You Copy & PasteYou need a clipboard manager because it can remember all the things you copy and paste. We have compiled five of the most functional tools to manage your clipboard history .Read More.
• DOSBox — Emulate MS-DOS anywhere.

• DSynchronize — Lets you synchronize multiple folders.
• Duplicate Files Finder — Helps you clean your hard drive by removing doubled files.
• FileZilla — The gold standard for everything FTP.
• JkDefrag — Disk defragmentation tool; you don’t need this for solid-state drives!
• KiTTY — Telnet and SSH client for remotely accessing to other systems. Forked fromOpen Source Software and Forking: The Good, The Great and The UglyOpen Source Software and Forking: The Good, The Great and The UglySometimes, the end-user benefits greatly from forks. Sometimes, the fork is done under a shroud of anger, hatred and animosity. Let's look at some examples.Read More popular but clunky PuTTY.
• PeaZip — One of the best file archiving toolsThe Top 3 File Compression & Extraction SoftwaresThe Top 3 File Compression & Extraction SoftwaresNeed to compress a large file? There's no shortage of file compression and archiving apps for Windows. But which file zipper is best for you? Here are our three top picks.Read More that lets you work with any kind of compressed fileHow to Extract Files From ZIP, RAR, 7z and Other Common ArchivesHow to Extract Files From ZIP, RAR, 7z and Other Common ArchivesWere you ever faced with a .rar file and wondered how to open it? Fortunately, managing ZIP files and other compressed archives is simple with the right tools. Here is what you need to know.Read More.
• Process Explorer — Gives far more information about running processes than the Task Manager.
• qBittorrent — uTorrent is an ad-infested piece of crapThe uTorrent Mining Scandal: Charity or Cash Grab?The uTorrent Mining Scandal: Charity or Cash Grab?Is µTorrent distributing Litecoin mining malware?Read More, so use this clean alternative for your torrenting needs.

• QuiteRSS — An RSS reader for making sure you never miss a new storyWhat Is RSS and How Can It Improve Your Life?What Is RSS and How Can It Improve Your Life?Read More.
• Revo Uninstaller — Uninstalls software and removes all leftover information from them.
• Rufus — Lets you create bootable USB drives.
• SnapTimer — Basic countdown timer.
• TeamViewer — The premiere remote desktop connection toolTeamViewer 12: The Best Remote Desktop ToolTeamViewer 12: The Best Remote Desktop ToolTeamViewer is the gold standard in remote desktop tools. It's cross-platform and free for personal use. The latest version includes new features for remote assistance. Here's how to get started with TeamViewer 12.Read More; perfect for using your home PC in the field or connecting to friends.
• TreeSize Free — Disk analyzerNeed A Disk Cleanup? Visualize What Takes Up Space On Your Windows PCNeed A Disk Cleanup? Visualize What Takes Up Space On Your Windows PCOh the pressure when you run out of disk space. What to delete? The fastest way to locate junk files is to use a tool that helps you visualize your system's file structure.Read More that scans your hard drives and shows you what’s taking up the most space.
• TyperTask — Basic text expansion utility for saving time on repetitive entriesWhat Is Text Expansion & How Can It Help You Save Time?What Is Text Expansion & How Can It Help You Save Time?If you could save yourself even a small fraction of the time you spend typing, you could save hours of your time every week. That's exactly what text expansion is for.Read More.
• WhatChanged — Scans for changed Registry information and files and shows you what’s different between the two snapshots.
• Windows Error Lookup Tool — Takes vague Windows error messages and gives you a plain English description of the problem.

• World Clock — Makes working with multiple time zones a snap.

Web Browsers (5)

• Google Chrome — The world’s most popular and speedy browser.
• Lynx — A text-only browser useful for seeing how your website looks to screen readers or just messing around.
• Maxthon Cloud — Another speedy, neat browser with an alternative feature set.

• Mozilla Firefox — If you’re sick of ChromeSick Of Chrome? This Is The Quickest Way To Completely Migrate To FirefoxSick Of Chrome? This Is The Quickest Way To Completely Migrate To FirefoxIf you're ready to leave Chrome and move on to Firefox, you can migrate your data quickly with import mechanisms baked into Firefox and third-party apps. Here's how!Read More, Firefox is a great choice that’s also heavily customizable.
• Opera — Another great browser that doesn’t get the recognition it deservesOpera Has Good Features, so What’s the Problem?Opera Has Good Features, so What’s the Problem?There is something holding you back from clicking that 'Make Opera My Default Browser' button. What is it?Read More.

Portable Apps for All!

No matter your reason for using portable apps, you’re bound to find something useful here5 Websites for Every Portable Application on the Web5 Websites for Every Portable Application on the WebYou already know that some applications offer portable or 'soft' installations, but don't you wish there was some place on the Internet where you could find any portable application?Read More! Load up some of your favorite tools for an always-ready USB stick, or try using a few of these on your computer if their functions sound useful to you. And don’t forget, you could even load up a portable version of Windows onto a USB stick.

Don’t forget that using the PortableApps.com Platform makes managing these tools on your flash drive much easier.

Even in a list of 100, chances are we missed your favorite portable apps. Please share the ones that you can’t live without in the comments!

Image Credit: Photobirdua via Shutterstock.com

Explore more about: Flash Memory, Portable App, USB Drive.

1. And where ist the MacOS stuff?

2. My virus scanner blew up when I tried to download this, 'web reputation policy violation'

3. FreeCommender XE is best freeware file manager, which also comes as portable app.

4. Hi,

   You might be interested to know that most (if not all) of these apps are also bundled in the LiberKey suite of portable apps. The Ultimate Suite has 294 apps and fits on a 4Gb USB key. It is updated regularly so there are no security worries about using outdated apps.

   Regards,
   Leo

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6. One quick question: can you save 'customization' settings or is everything lost once you close a potable app?

   • Changes to the preferences in the apps are saved.

   • Changes made to the app preferences are saved.

• All About Wireless

• How To Connect At Home

• How To Connect On The Go

• How to Troubleshoot Wireless Issues

• The Future of Wireless

Remote desktop software, more accurately called remote access software or remote control software, let you remotely control one computer from another. By remote control we truly mean remote control — you can take over the mouse and keyboard and use the computer you've connected to just like your own.

Remote desktop software is really useful for lots of situations, from helping your dad who lives 500 miles away, work through a computer issue, to remotely administering from your New York office the dozens of servers you run in a Singaporean data center!

Generally, remotely accessing a computer requires that a piece of software be installed on the computer you want to connect to, called the host. Once that's done, another computer or device with the right credentials, called the client, can connect to the host and control it.

Don't let the technical aspects of remote desktop software scare you away. The better free remote access programs listed below require nothing more than a few clicks to get started — no special computer knowledge required.

Remote Desktop is also the actual name of the built-in remote access tool in Windows operating systems. It's ranked alongside the other tools but we think there are several remote control programs that do a better job.

Remote Utilities

What We Like

• Includes lots of remote access tools

• Great for both spontaneous and unattended remote access

• Supports portable mode

• Doesn't require router port changes

• Free for both personal and business use

• Lets you connect to up to 10 computers for free

What We Don't Like

• It can get confusing setting up the program for first use

• Runs on Windows only

Remote Utilities is a free remote access program with some really great features. It works by pairing two remote computers together with what they call an 'Internet ID.' You can control a total of 10 PCs with Remote Utilities.

Install a portion of Remote Utilities called Host on a Windows PC to have permanent access to it. You also have the option to just run Agent, which provides spontaneous support without installing anything — it can even be launched from a flash drive.

The host computer is given an Internet ID that they must share so a client can make a connection.

The Viewer program is used to connect to the host or agent software.

The Viewer can be downloaded on its own or in the Viewer + Host combo file. You can also download a portable version of the Viewer if you'd rather not install anything.

Free Portable Apps For Mac

Connecting the Viewer to the Host or Agent is done without any router changes like port forwarding, making setup very easy. The client just needs to enter the Internet ID number and password.

There are also client applications that can be downloaded for free for iOS and Android users.

Different modules can be used from the viewer so you can actually access a computer remotely without even viewing the screen, though screen-viewing is definitely Remote Utilities' main feature.

Here are some of the modules Remote Utilities allows: A remote task manager, file transfer, power control for remote rebooting or WOL, remote terminal (access to Command Prompt), remote file launcher, system information manager, text chat, remote registry access, and remote webcam viewing.

In addition to these features, Remote Utilities also supports remote printing and viewing multiple monitors.

Unfortunately, configuring Remote Utilities can be confusing on the host computer since there are lots of different options.

Remote Utilities can be installed on Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, as well as Windows Server 2012, 2008, and 2003.

UltraVNC

What We Like

• Supports file transfers

• Custom keyboard shortcuts can be set up

• You can send chat messages to the remote computer

• Lets you connect to a remote computer from a browser, computer program, and mobile app

What We Don't Like

• You have to change your router settings to make the program work

• Doesn't work well for on-demand, spontaneous remote access

• Can't print remotely

• Unable to turn the computer on remotely

• Confusing download page

Another remote access program is UltraVNC. UltraVNC works a bit like Remote Utilities, where a server and viewer is installed on two PCs, and the viewer is used to control the server.

When you install UltraVNC, you're asked if you wish to install the Server, Viewer, or both. Install the Server on the PC you wish to connect to.

You can install the UltraVNC Server as a system service so it's always running. This is the ideal option so you can always make a connection to it with the client software.

To make a connection with the UltraVNC Server, you must install the Viewer portion during setup.

After configuring port forwarding in your router, you'll be able to access the UltraVNC server from anywhere with an internet connection — either via a mobile device that supports VNC connections, a PC with the Viewer installed, or an internet browser. All you need is the Server's IP address to make the connection.

UltraVNC supports file transfers, text chat, clipboard sharing, and can even boot and connect to the server in Safe Mode.

The download page is a little confusing — first select the most recent UltraVNC version, and then choose the 32-bit or 64-bit setup file that will work with your edition of Windows.

Portable Apps For Mac 2018 Update

Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, and Windows Server 2012, 2008, and 2003 users can install and use UltraVNC.

Chrome Remote Desktop

What We Like

• Lets you remote into the computer even when the user isn't logged in

• Installs quickly

• Has multi-monitor support

• Includes a file transfer tool

• Lets you remote into the computer via an app

• Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux

What We Don't Like

• Chrome is the recommended browser to use (which the host might not have installed)

• Can't chat with the remote user

• Remote printing isn't allowed

Chrome Remote Desktop is an extension for the Google Chrome web browser that lets you set up a computer for remote access from any other computer running Google Chrome.

The way this works is that you install the extension in Google Chrome and then give authorization for remote access to that PC via a personal PIN you create yourself.

​This requires you to log on to your Google account, like your Gmail or YouTube login information.

To connect to the host browser, sign on to Chrome Remote Desktop through another web browser (it has to be Chrome) using the same Google credentials or using a temporary access code generated by the host computer.

Because you're logged in, you can easily see the other PC name, from where you can simply choose it and begin the remote session.

There isn't a chat function supported in Chrome Remote Desktop like you see with similar programs, but it's very easy to configure and lets you connect to your computer (or anyone's) from anywhere using just your web browser.

What's more is that you can remote into the computer when the user doesn't have Chrome open, or even when they're completely logged out of their user account.

Since Chrome Remote Desktop runs entirely within the Google Chrome browser, it can work with any operating system that uses Chrome, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebooks.

Windows Remote Desktop

What We Like

• Provides the most natural and easy-to-use remote access experience

• No download necessary

• Supports file transfers

What We Don't Like

• Works on Windows only

• Not every version of Windows can be remoted into

• No built-in chat capability

• Requires port forwarding changes to be set up

Windows Remote Desktop is the remote access software built into the Windows operating system. No additional download is necessary to use the program.

2018 Best Mac Applications

To enable connections to a computer with Windows Remote Desktop, you must open the System Properties settings (accessible via Control Panel) and allow remote connections via a particular Windows user through the Remote tab.

You do have to set up your router for port forwarding so another PC can connection to it from outside the network, but this is usually not that big of a hassle to complete.

The other computer that wishes to connect to the host machine must simply open the already installed Remote Desktop Connection software and enter the IP address of the host.

You can open Remote Desktop through the Run dialog box (open it with the Windows Key + R shortcut); just enter the mstsccommand to launch it.

Most of the other software in this list have features that Windows Remote Desktop doesn't, but this method of remote access seems to be the most natural and easiest way to control the mouse and keyboard of a remote Windows PC.

Once you have everything configured, you can transfer files, print to a local printer, listen to audio from the remote PC, and transfer clipboard content.

Windows Remote Desktop can be used on Windows from XP up through Windows 10.

However, while all versions of Windows can connect to other computers that have incoming connections enabled, not all Windows versions can act as a host (i.e. accept incoming remote access requests).

If you're using a Home Premium version or below, your computer can only act as a client and therefore cannot be accessed remotely (but it can still access other computers remotely).

Incoming remote access is only allowed on Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate versions of Windows. In those editions, others can remote into the computer as described above.

Something else to remember is that Remote Desktop will kick a user off if they're logged in when someone connects to that user's account remotely. This is vastly different from every other program in this list — all the others can remote in to a user account while the user is still actively using the computer.

AnyDesk

What We Like

• Has you create an easy-to-remember alias for remote connections

• Supports both audio and file transfer

• Lets you record the remote session

• Connections can be configured to favor quality or speed

• Updates to new software versions automatically

• Works on Linux, Windows, and macOS

• There's a mobile app available

What We Don't Like

• Could be confusing to understand at first

• Might limit connection time or address book entries because there are also paid versions of the program

AnyDesk is a remote desktop program that you can run portably or install like a regular program.

Launch AnyDesk on the PC you want to connect to and record the 9-digit number, or custom alias if one is set up.

When the client connects, the host will be asked to allow or disallow the connection and can also control permissions, like to allow sound, clipboard use, and the ability to block the host's keyboard/mouse control.

On another computer, run AnyDesk and then enter the host's Remote Desk ID or alias in the Remote Desk section of the program. Press Connect, and wait for the host to press Accept.

If unattended access is set up, the client doesn't need to wait for the host to accept the connection.

AnyDesk auto-updates and can enter full-screen mode, balance between quality and speed of the connection, transfer files and sound, sync the clipboard, record the remote session, run keyboard shortcuts, take screenshots of the remote computer, and restart the host computer.

AnyDesk works with Windows (10 through XP), macOS, and Linux.

AeroAdmin

What We Like

• Can be installed as a portable application

• Free for commercial and private use

• Works right away; no router changes are necessary

• Can remotely log off and reboot the computer

• Encrypted connections

• Ideal for spontaneous and unattended access

What We Don't Like

• Doesn't support chat

• Connection times are limited in the free edition

• Can't print remotely

• No file transfer support in free version

AeroAdmin is probably the easiest program to use for free remote access. There are hardly any settings, and everything is quick and to the point, which is perfect for spontaneous support.

Just open the portable program and share your IP address or the given ID with someone else. This is how the client computer will know how to connect to the host.

The client PC just needs to run the same AeroAdmin program and enter the ID or IP address into their program. You can choose View only or Remote Control before you connect, and then just select Connect to request remote control.

When the host computer confirms the connection, you can start controlling the computer and share clipboard text.

It's great that AeroAdmin is absolutely free for both personal and commercial use, but it's too bad there isn't a chat option included, and really too bad that you can't transfer files.

Another note that needs to be made is that while AeroAdmin is 100% free, it does limit how many hours you can use it per month.

AeroAdmin can be installed on 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 10, 8, 7, and XP.

RemotePC

What We Like

• Very simple design that's easy to understand

• File transfers are supported

• Users can chat with each other during the session

• Works on Windows and macOS

• Sessions can be recorded to a video file

• Apps let you remote into a computer from a mobile device

What We Don't Like

• Lets you keep remote access information for just one computer at a time

RemotePC, for good or bad, is a simpler free remote desktop program. You're only allowed one connection (unless you upgrade) but for many of you, that'll be just fine.

Download and install RemotePC on the PC that will be accessed remotely. Windows and Mac are both supported.

Share the Access ID and Key with someone else so that they can access the computer.

Alternatively, you can create an account with RemotePC and then log in on the host computer to add the computer to your account for easy access later.

There are two ways to access the RemotePC host from a different computer. The first is through the RemotePC program that you install on your computer. Enter the host computer's Access ID and Key to connect to and control the host, or even just to transfer files.

Another way you can use RemotePC from the client's perspective is through the iOS or Android app. Follow the download link below to get RemotePC installed on your mobile device.

You'll be able to receive sound from the remote PC, record what you're doing to a video file, access multiple monitors, transfer files, make sticky notes, send keyboard shortcuts, and text chat. However, some of those features aren't available if the host and client computers are running different operating systems.

RemotePC lets you have just one computer set up on your account at once, which means you can't keep hold of a list of PCs to remote into like you can with most of the other remote access programs in this list.

However, with the one-time access feature, you can remote into as many computers as you like, you just can't save the connection information to your computer.

The following operating systems are supported: Windows 10, 8, 7, Windows Server 2016, 2012, 2008, and Mac (10.9.5 Mavericks and newer).

Remember that the free version of RemotePC lets you keep track of only one computer in your account. You must pay if you want to hold on to the Access ID of more than one host.

Seecreen

What We Like

• Very small program file that's entirely portable

• One of the best ways to get instant, on-demand remote access

• Lets you share the whole desktop or a single program window

• Supports voice and text chat

• Supports file transfers

• Works on Windows, Linux, and macOS

What We Don't Like

• Doesn't support clipboard syncing

• When recording a remote session, the created video file isn't in a popular, usable format

Seecreen (previously called Firnass) is an extremely tiny (500 KB), yet powerful free remote access program that's absolutely perfect for on-demand, instant support.

Open the program on the computer that needs to be controlled. After creating an account and logging in, you can add other users to the menu by their email address or username.

Adding the client under the 'Unattended' section lets them have unattended access to the computer.

If you don't want to add the contact, you can still just share the ID and password with the client so they can have instant access.

To connect to the host computer with Seecreen, the other user needs to enter the host's ID and password.

Once the two computers are paired up, you can start a voice call or share your screen, an individual window, or part of the screen with the other user. Once screen sharing has begun, you can record the session, transfer files, and run remote commands.

Sharing the screen must be initiated from the client's computer.

Seecreen is a JAR file that uses Java to run. All versions of Windows are supported, as well as Mac and Linux operating systems.

LiteManager

What We Like

• Stores remote access information for up to 30 computers

• Several ways to connect to a remote computer

• You can open files remote without controlling the screen

• Lets you transfer files without any notifications or alerts

• Supports text chat

• Includes lots of useful tools

• Supports spontaneous and portable remote access

• Runs on Windows and macOS

What We Don't Like

• The program doesn't update very often

• The multitude of options could be overwhelming and confusing if you just want a simple remote access tool

LiteManager is another remote access program, and it's strikingly similar to Remote Utilities, which we explain above.

However, unlike Remote Utilities, which can control a total of only 10 PCs, LiteManager supports up to 30 slots for storing and connecting to remote computers, and also has lots of useful features.

The computer that needs to be accessed should install the LiteManager Pro – Server.msi program (it's free), which is contained in the downloaded ZIP file.

There are numerous ways to ensure a connection can be made to the host computer. It can be done through the IP address, computer name, or an ID.

Macbook Apps 2018

The easiest way to set this up is to right-click the server program in the notification area of the taskbar, choose Connect by ID, erase the contents that are already there, and click Connected to generate a brand new ID.

The other program, called Viewer, is installed for the client to connect to the host. Once the host computer has produced an ID, the client should enter it from the Connect by ID option in the Connection menu to establish a remote connection to the other computer.

Once connected, the client can do all sorts of things, much like with Remote Utilities, such as work with multiple monitors, transfer files silently, take full control or read-only access of the other PC, run a remote task manager, launch files and programs remotely, capture sound, edit the registry, create a demonstration, lock the other person's screen and keyboard, and text chat.

There's also a QuickSupport option, which is a portable server and viewer program that makes connecting much quicker than the above method.

I tested LiteManager in Windows 10, but it should also work just fine in Windows 8, 7, Vista, and XP. This program is available for macOS, too.

Zoho Assist

What We Like

• Free for commercial and personal use

• Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux

• Easy setup

• The client needs no software

Portable Apps For Mac And Pc

What We Don't Like

• Limited compared to the paid versions

Zoho Assist is yet another remote access tool that has a free edition for both personal and commercial use. You can share screens and files, and chat remotely with the other user through a unique session ID and password.

The host needs to select Share My Screen on the Zoho Assist website, and then START NOW to get a session ID and password to give to the client. You can copy the ID and password manually, share a unique URL with the client, or just enter their email address to have the connection info emailed to them.

The host also needs to download a small tool so that the client can remotely access in order to control the computer. Use the Download button to save ZA_Connect.exe to your computer, and then open it to install it.

Once the host computer is fully set up and ready to go, the client needs to access the Join Screen Sharing Session page and enter the ID and password of the client computer.

Or, if the host shared the information over email or the URL, then, of course, the client can just use that information to connect to the host.

By default, the client does not have full control rights, but only viewing permissions. To change this, the client needs to go to Session > Request control, and wait for the host to click Yes.

Some other features included in this program are unattended access, clipboard sharing, a Swap Screen button, and an annotation tool so that the host and client can draw on the screen.

The Zoho Assist free plan supports only five unattended computers and one concurrent session. For more features, you can order the Standard, Professional, or Enterprise edition.

Comodo Unite

What We Like

• Works through a VPN

• You don't have to make any changes to your router

• Supports chat

• Has a unique interface that's still easy to use

What We Don't Like

• The software hasn't been updated since 2011

Comodo Unite is another free remote access program that creates a secure VPN connection between multiple computers. Once a VPN is established, you can remotely have access to applications and files through the client software.

Install the Comodo Unite program on the computer you wish to control and then make an account with Comodo Unite. The account is how you keep track of the PCs you add to your account so it's easy to make connections.

To connect to a Comodo Unite host computer, just install the same software and then sign on with the same username and password. You can then just select the computer you want to control and begin the session immediately through the VPN.

Files can only be shared if you start a chat, so it's not as easy to share files with Comodo Unite as it is with the other remote desktop programs in this list. However, the chat is secure within the VPN, which you may not find in similar software.

Only Windows 7, Vista, and XP (32-bit and 64-bit versions) are officially supported, but I was able to get Comodo Unite to function as advertised in Windows 10 and Windows 8 as well.

Comodo Unite has been replaced with Comodo ONE, but it's still available for download and is more appropriate for most people.

ShowMyPC

What We Like

• Simple, to-the-point design

• Lets others connect to your computer through a special URL

• The program is portable and perfect for spontaneous remote access

What We Don't Like

• Keyboard shortcuts are limited

• Shows premium options that you can't use in the free edition

ShowMyPC is a portable and free remote access program that's nearly identical to UltraVNC (No. 2 in this list) but uses a password to make a connection instead of an IP address.

Run the ShowMyPC software on any computer and then choose Show My PC to get a unique ID number called a Share Password.

This ID is the number you must share with others so they can connect to the host.

Open the same ShowMyPC program on another computer and enter the ID from the host program to make a connection. The client can instead enter the number on the ShowMyPC website (in the 'View PC' box) and run a Java version of the program within their browser.

There are additional options here that aren't available in UltraVNC, like webcam sharing over a web browser and scheduled meetings that allow someone to connect to your PC via a personal web link that launches a Java version of ShowMyPC.

ShowMyPC clients can only send a limited number of keyboard shortcuts to the host computer.

Choose ShowMyPC Free on the download page to get the free version. It works on all versions of Windows.

DesktopNow

What We Like

• You can access remote computers from any web browser

• Lets you avoid setting up router port forwards, but that is an option

• Includes a remote file browser for file transfers

What We Don't Like

• Hasn't been updated in a long time

• Unattended access is hard to achieve

DesktopNow is a free remote access program from NCH Software. After optionally forwarding the proper port number in your router, and signing up for a free account, you can access your PC from anywhere through a web browser.

The computer that will be accessed remotely needs to have the DesktopNow software installed.

When the program is first launched, your email and a password should be entered so you can use the same credentials on the client side to make the connection.

The host computer can either configure its router to forward the proper port number to itself or choose cloud access during the install to make a direct connection to the client, bypassing the need for complicated forwarding.

It's probably a better idea for most people to use the direct, cloud access method to avoid issues with port forwarding.

Portable Apps

The client just needs to access the host through a web browser. If the router was configured to forward the port number, the client would use the host PCs IP address to connect. If cloud access was chosen, a specific link would have been given to the host that you'd use for the connection.

DesktopNow has a nice file sharing feature that lets you download your shared files remotely in an easy to use file browser.

There isn't a dedicated application to connect to DesktopNow from a mobile device, so trying to view and control a computer from a phone or tablet can be difficult. However, the website is optimized for mobile phones, so viewing your shared files is easy.

Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP are supported, both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.

BeamYourScreen

What We Like

• Multiple people can view the same screen simultaneously

• Viewers can remote in to the computer from a web browser

• Works through a special ID (no router changes have to be made)

• Files can be shared between computers

• Supports text chat

• Can be used portably or as a regular program

What We Don't Like

• It can be confusing knowing which of the several download options to choose

• Outdated software

Another free and portable remote access program is BeamYourScreen. This program works like some of the others in this list, where the presenter is given an ID number they must share with another user so they can connect to the presenter's screen.

BeamYourScreen hosts are called organizers, so the program called BeamYourScreen for Organizers (Portable) is the preferred method the host computer should use for accepting remote connections. It's quick and easy to start sharing your screen without having to install anything.

There's also a version that can be installed called BeamYourScreen for Organizers (Installation).

Just click the Start Session button to open up your computer for connections. You'll be given a session number you must share with someone before they can connect to the host.

Clients can also install the portable or installable version of BeamYourScreen, but there's a dedicated program called BeamYourScreen for Participants that's a small executable file that can be launched similar to the portable one for organizers.

Enter the host's session number in the Session ID section of the program to join the session.

Once connected, you can control the screen, share clipboard text and files, and chat with text.

Something rather unique about BeamYourScreen is that you can share your ID with multiple people so many participants can join in and look at the presenter's screen. There's even an online viewer so clients can view the other screen without having to run any software.

BeamYourScreen works with all versions of Windows, plus Windows Server 2008 and 2003, Mac, and Linux.

Aren't There Other Free Remote Access Programs?

You do have other options like TeamViewer, which is wildly popular. Unfortunately, however, many users have had issues with it thinking that they're using it in a business setting, forcing them to pay to continue using the tool.

LogMeIn's free product, LogMeIn Free, is no longer available. This was one of the more popular free remote access services ever available so it's really too bad it went away.