Teamviewer is one of the most well known names in free remote computer viewing and control programs. There are a number of alternatives though, and many offer a good number of advantages.
1)LogMeIn
LogMeIn is a limited free program that allows remote control up of to 10 computers from any location with an internet connection.
Advantages:The program is free, though limited. It also provides iOS and Android support, so it is possible for users to access computers from compatible mobile devices. It is a very basic and easy-to-se remote control program.
Disadvantages: The program is limited. In order to use file transfers, sound, or printers, users must pay for LogMeIn Pro and pay a monthly subscription fee.
Official Site:http://secure.logmein.com
2)Join.Me
Join.Me is a free program that allows users to connect to other computers with a minimum of software to download. All users have to do is download a small program and enter a meeting code to join remotely.
Advantages: The program itself is free, and free users can host up to 10 people in a remote meeting. The software is very basic, taking only a couple of minutes to download.
Disadvantages: For larger meetings, users must pay a monthly subscription fee. Once the fee is paid, up to 250 people can join in one meeting. The program is also slower than some of the other alternatives.
Official Site: http://join.me
3)Remote Desktop Connection
Remote Desktop Connection does exactly what its name suggests, and is available for free though Microsoft. It also comes pre-installed on almost all Windows operating systems.
Advantages: It is free, and in many cases is already installed on whatever computer a user may be working on. Even if it is not installed, it is easy to find though the Microsoft Website.
Disadvantages: It is not compatible with multiple-user connections, so it is not a program that can be used for online meetings. Also, systems may not be compatible if the computers are running different operating systems.
Official Site:http://www.microsoft.com
4) UltraVNC
UltraVNC is a fairly new program that allows users to easily access the desktop of another computer, making it ideal for tech support uses.
Advantages:The program is free and open source, which means that it can be updated or modified by anyone. Most open source programs do pay attention to modifications and suggestions, and add these to subsequent updates.
Disadvantages:The website is difficult to navigate, and multiple users have reported that it is nearly impossible to find the download button.
Official Site:http://www.uvnc.com
5)Chrome Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop is one of the first programs that will allow users to access computers remotely though the Chrome browser.
Advantages: Users do not have to download software. Instead, access is available through an add-on in the Chrome browser itself. It is also cross-platform, meaning it can be used on windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
Disadvantages: The program is still in its beta release, meaning there may still be bugs in the system. The current release was designed specifically to get feedback from users.
Official Site:https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/chrome-remote-desktop/gbchcmhmhahfdphkhkmpfmihenigjmpp
While Teamviewer may meet the needs for many users, both new and experienced, there are a number of alternatives available, so it does pay to do a little research.