What is Chrome Remote Desktop?
Chrome Remote Desktop is an extension developed by Google that allows you to remotely access another computer through the Chrome browser or a Chromebook. It uses the remote desktop protocol technology to connect two computers, with one acting as the host and the other as the client.
Once installed, Chrome Remote Desktop allows the host computer to be controlled remotely from any other Chrome browser or Chromebook. It works on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS. The extension is completely free and easy to set up.
Key features of Chrome Remote Desktop include:
- Access your computer from anywhere - as long as you have an internet connection, you can control your host computer remotely.
- Easy connection code - the host computer generates a simple 6-digit code that allows quick connections.
- Secure access - connections are secured using TLS encryption and authenticated with Google account credentials.
- Smooth performance - Chrome Remote Desktop provides a fast, responsive remote desktop experience.
- Cross-platform - works across Windows, Mac, Chromebooks, iOS and Android.
- Free - there are no costs or licenses associated with using Chrome Remote Desktop.
Benefits of Using Chrome Remote Desktop
There are many benefits to using the Chrome Remote Desktop extension:
Work Remotely
Chrome Remote Desktop enables you to access your work computer from home or anywhere else. You can stay productive outside the office while ensuring your data remains secure on your work machine.
Remote Support
IT professionals can use Remote Desktop to provide assistance to users remotely. Help desk agents can view and control user machines to troubleshoot problems.
Access Personal Computer
If you want to access files, software or features only available on your home computer, you can connect remotely with Chrome Remote Desktop. Great for when you're traveling.
Collaborate with Team
Remote Desktop makes it easy to collaborate on projects. Hosts can share control of the screen and work together with others remotely.
Run Resource Intensive Programs
You can run large programs, edit high-res videos, annotate documents, etc. on your powerful desktop while remotely connected from a lower-powered device.
Simpler than VPN
For basic remote access between just two computers, Chrome Remote Desktop provides a much simpler solution than setting up a VPN.
How Does Chrome Remote Desktop Work?
Chrome Remote Desktop works using industry-standard remote desktop protocol (RDP) technology built into Chrome by Google. It transmits data securely between the connected computers to allow control of the host system.
Here's a quick rundown of how Chrome Remote Desktop establishes a remote connection between two computers:
- The extension is installed on both the remote and host computers.
- The host generates a one-time access PIN which the remote enters when connecting.
- The connection is established over the internet via Google's servers.
- Screen images and controls are transmitted between the computers.
- Audio can be transmitted via the microphone and speakers.
- Files can also be transferred between the computers.
- The remote computer can control the host just like a directly connected keyboard and mouse.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Chrome Remote Desktop
Using Chrome Remote Desktop to access a host computer from another device is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps:
1. Install the Chrome Remote Desktop Extension
On the host and remote computers, install the Chrome Remote Desktop extension from the Chrome Web Store. This adds remote desktop capabilities to Chrome.
2. Set Up the Host Computer
On the computer you want to access remotely, open Chrome Remote Desktop and click Turn On Remote Connections. Sign in with your Google Account.
Optional: For added security, click Set up PIN to generate a 6-digit PIN.
3. Allow Remote Connections
In Windows, ensure remote desktop connections are allowed by going to System > Remote Desktop and enabling it.
On a Mac, go to System Preferences > Sharing and check the Remote Management box.
4. Share the Access Code
In Chrome Remote Desktop on the host computer, you'll see a Remote Access Code. Share this code and your username with anyone you want to grant remote access to this computer.
5. Connect from the Remote Computer
On the second computer, open Chrome and go to remotedesktop.google.com and enter the host computer's code and your Google account details. Click Continue to connect!
You'll now have remote desktop access and control over the host computer.
Remote Desktop Chrome Download on Mobile
In addition to using Chrome Remote Desktop on desktop browsers, you can also access your host computer from an Android or iOS device.
Android App
Download and install the free Chrome Remote Desktop app from the Google Play store. Sign in with your Google account and connect using the host computer's access code.
iOS App
You can get the iOS app here. Install it, sign in with your Google ID, and connect to your host computer.
The mobile apps provide full remote control over your host right from your phone or tablet. Gestures like pinch-to-zoom work intuitively.
Remote Desktop Chrome Download Tips
Here are some tips for using Chrome Remote Desktop effectively:
- For faster performance, use Ethernet or connect host and client to same WiFi network.
- Grant remote access selectively for enhanced security. Revoke access when done.
- On Windows hosts, disable sleep/hibernation so machine stays awake.
- Close sensitive apps and windows on the host before sharing control.
- Transfer files easily between computers via drag and drop.
- Use a PIN code for quick reconnect to frequently accessed hosts.
- Adjust quality vs performance in settings based on connection speed.
- For privacy, disable remote sound output on host computer.
Chrome Remote Desktop vs Alternative Software
Chrome Remote Desktop is one of many popular remote access solutions. How does it compare to alternatives like Windows Remote Desktop, VNC, and TeamViewer?
- Built into Windows; no download required
- Requires port forwarding for external access
- Can be complicated to set up remote access
- Open source and free
- Requires port forwarding and IP address
- More manual network configuration
- Very easy to use
- Commercial software with paid tiers
- Requires installing software on both computers
- Free, included with Chrome browser
- Simple access codes for connections
- No ports or IP address needed
- Cross platform across devices
- Leverages Google's network architecture
For most users, Chrome Remote Desktop provides the best combination of ease-of-use, performance, and cross-platform access. The simple access code system makes it easy to connect remotely, without dealing with network settings.
Conclusion
Chrome Remote Desktop is an incredibly useful extension for remotely accessing your computers for work, tech support, collaboration, or any other task requiring control of your desktop. It is much simpler than traditional remote desktop software and provides reliable, encrypted connections.
The Chrome Remote Desktop extension can be easily installed on any Windows, Mac, Chromebook, Android or iOS device. Access your host computers using randomly generated access codes, without having to deal with IP addresses or port forwarding.
So if you need occasional or regular remote access between computers, give the free Chrome Remote Desktop a try. It provides an easier and faster way to control your desktop from anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chrome Remote Desktop
1. Is Chrome Remote Desktop secure?
Yes, Chrome Remote Desktop uses industry-standard encryption to secure connections between computers. All data is encrypted using TLS and connections authenticated with your Google account.
2. Does Chrome Remote Desktop work on Mac?
Yes, Chrome Remote Desktop can be installed on Mac computers and used to access other Macs and PCs remotely.
3. Can I access my home computer from work with Chrome Remote Desktop?
Absolutely. As long as your home computer is turned on with Chrome Remote Desktop enabled, you can access it remotely from your work machine by installing the extension in Chrome.
4. Is Chrome Remote Desktop free?
Yes, Google offers Chrome Remote Desktop for free. There are no license fees or paid tiers for the basic features.
5. How many computers can I access with Chrome Remote Desktop?
There is no set limit. You can install the extension on as many computers as you want and access them remotely through Chrome.
6. Does the host computer need to have Chrome open to work?
No. The Chrome Remote Desktop app runs in the background even if Chrome isn't actively open on the host computer.
7. Can I transfer files with Chrome Remote Desktop?
Yes, you can transfer files and folders in both directions using drag and drop while connected.
Key Takeaways
- Chrome Remote Desktop enables remote access between computers for free.
- It's easy to set up using access codes, no IP or ports required.
- Works across Windows, Mac, Chromebooks, Android and iOS.
- Provides secure remote connections encrypted with TLS.
- Files can be transferred seamlessly via drag and drop.
- Apps run remotely as if you are sitting at the host computer.
- Useful for collaboration, IT support, accessing work machines remotely and more.
