categories
Updated on in How to, Remote access

Microsoft Replaces Remote Desktop: Explore the Best Free Remote Desktop Alternative

Author: Durga Prasad
Durga Prasad Article author

Currently, Microsoft offers two remote desktop applications – Remote Desktop and Remote Desktop Connection. Apart from similar names, their functionalities are also similar. 

According to the news, the company will no longer support the Microsoft Remote Desktop application, which was available via the Microsoft Store, after May 27, 2025. This requires users to shift to the Windows Application, available since September 2024. 

Because of similar names, people are confused about which of the two is being discontinued. 

“Starting May 27, 2025, the Remote Desktop app for Windows from the Microsoft Store will no longer be supported or available for download and installation,” Microsoft said. “Users must transition to Windows App to ensure continued access to Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box.”  

Meanwhile, a separate built-in application, Remote Desktop Connection (RDC), on Windows 11 will remain available beyond May 27. Microsoft has confirmed it can still be used for remote connections until Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) support is integrated into the Windows App, as they explain: “Remote Desktop Connection will remain available for those using it for Windows-to-Windows connections, and RDP will continue to be supported” (Microsoft Tech Community).

Nevertheless, RDC comes with many limitations. It’s less user-friendly for non-technical users, offers limited platform support, and its configuration is complex. 

Microsoft discontinuing Remote Desktop in the new Windows Application is a change that many users find difficult to digest, confusing, strange, and unwanted. As a result, it has garnered plenty of negative reactions from users. In addition, the Windows application doesn’t have a full remote desktop feature yet. Because of these challenges, users are now looking for a better and secure RDP alternative that they can rely on.

HelpWire: Excellent Remote Desktop Alternative

HelpWire is a free yet reliable and secure remote desktop solution for individuals and businesses. As a powerful remote desktop alternative, HelpWire offers cross-compatible support across macOS, Windows, and Linux. It comes with a straightforward and intuitive user interface, useful features, so users can enjoy a flexible and easy remote desktop access.

HelpWire: Key Features

Let’s talk about some of the features of HelpWire:

  • ✅ Simple setup: HelpWire requires minimal setup but gives you hassle-free remote connectivity, without firewall adjustments, VPNs, or port forwarding, unlike RDP.
  • ✅ Supports multiple monitors: Like Windows App, HelpWire offers a multi-monitor feature that allows you to move across multiple screens.
  • ✅ File transfer security: HelpWire offers file encryption, so you can securely share your files between a local and a remote device.
  • ✅ Supports multiple platforms: HelpWire is cross-platform compatible, works with macOS, Windows, and Linux. This offers broad accessibility for users instead of limiting them to a single operating system.
  • ✅ Live Chat: It allows you to offer remote support to users through a built-in chat feature. This way, users and IT support can have effortless and real-time communication to resolve issues.

HelpWire vs Microsoft Remote Desktop vs RDC

The Microsoft Remote Desktop App has been one of the most popular remote access solutions due to its ease of use and features. However, with Microsoft discontinuing it in May 2025, the only remaining option is Remote Desktop Connection (RDC), which is limited to Windows and lacks key features. In contrast, HelpWire is a completely free, cross-platform solution offering advanced features like file transfer, multi-monitor support, and seamless setup, making it an excellent Microsoft Remote Desktop alternative. The table below outlines their key differences in functionality, pricing, and use cases.

 FeatureHelpWire (Third-Party Solution)Microsoft Remote Desktop AppRemote Desktop Connection (RDC)
1Cross-Platform SupportYes, supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and more platforms are plannedYes, supports Windows, macOS, iOS, and AndroidNo, primarily for Windows-to-Windows connections
2PriceFree for both individuals and businessFreeFree (built into Windows)
3Ease of UseExtremely easy to set up with zero configuration and a streamlined interfaceUser-friendly, modern interface, easy setupSimple but less intuitive, especially for non-technical users
4SecurityUtilizes Auth0 for secure authentication, employs TLS/SSL and AES-256 encryption for data transfer, operates on AWS infrastructure, and offers permission-based access with the ability to revoke access at any time.Supports multi-factor authentication, encryption, and Azure AD integrationBasic security via VPN, encryption, but more manual configuration needed
5Additional FeaturesOffers advanced features like file transfer, multi-monitor support, and unattended accessLimited to standard RDP featuresVery limited, mainly focused on basic RDP functionality
6PerformanceOptimized for smooth performance with no lag, even over slower connectionsHigh performance, optimized for cloud-based and virtual environmentsGood for Windows-to-Windows remote access, can be slow over the internet
7Support Optionsresponsive customer support, knowledge baseMicrosoft support through community forums and enterprise supportLimited support (primarily through Microsoft)
8Best Use CasesCross-platform remote access, IT support, troubleshooting, customer service, remote trainingRemote work, accessing cloud services, cross-platform needsWindows-to-Windows connections, IT support, administration of servers

HelpWire: Why It’s the Best Windows Remote Desktop Alternative

HelpWire is a high-performing, secure, and easy-to-use remote desktop solution. This versatile and robust platform offers similar features and capabilities to Microsoft’s RDC and Remote Desktop App. But what sets it apart is that HelpWire offers greater flexibility and additional features to users, such as cross-compatibility, multi-monitor support, connection security, and more. 

Apart from this, HelpWire is free to use for all, whether you use it for personal or business purposes. It’s helpful for various users, such as tech support specialists, system administrators, individuals with remote access needs, and SMBs looking for reliable remote desk software. 

Let’s break down how HelpWire serves as an excellent RDP replacement for different users:

For System Administrators

RDC allows system admins to access only Windows-based computers and is complex to configure. Accessing a computer remotely over the internet can also be difficult. 

HelpWire, on the other hand, supports various platforms – macOS, Windows, and Linux. The platform is effortless to set up and allows system administrators to access and use remote computers without having to physically access them. This way, admins can easily provide reliable and secure remote support to customers on multiple devices. It comes with useful features, such as system monitoring and unattended access to simplify IT management, improve productivity, and reduce service downtimes.

For Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs)

Microsoft’s RDC works only on Windows-to-Windows connections and requires you to purchase a Windows Pro or Enterprise license. 

In comparison, HelpWire is cross-compatible. It’s useful for SMBs to provide faster and high-quality support to customers, partners, and employees on different devices without having an extensive in-house IT team. HelpWire is also free for both businesses and individuals, making it an excellent choice for SMBs looking for a cost-effective and powerful remote support solution. This Windows remote desktop alternative free software prioritizes security with features – encrypted connections, authentication, and permission-based access.

For Tech Support Professionals

With RDC, tech support agents can only access Windows-based machines. If your customer uses macOS or Linux, you won’t be able to serve them using RDC. This impacts user experience, particularly when they need your assistance the most. 

You don’t have to face this with HelpWire. It’s cross-platform compatible across macOS, Linux, and Windows. It offers a file-sharing feature, so tech support specialists can troubleshoot users’ issues on different devices. HelpWire also offers real-time communication tools, such as remote control and live chat, to simplify IT support.

Conclusion

Since Microsoft Remote Desktop App will soon be discontinued, switching to HelpWire makes more sense. If you are an SMB, tech support specialist, system admin, or an individual looking for reliable remote access, HelpWire is one of the best Windows remote desktop alternatives for you.

Tags:
Microsoft Remote Desktop, Tips & Tricks, Windows