TeamViewer vs Remote Desktop Protocol
Remote access software is an essential solution for individuals or organizations who need to manage and access remotely located computers. Many remote access tools are on the market with different features that appeal to various audiences. This article looks at the differences between TeamViewer and RDP to help you select the right one for your situation.
Overview
Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) enables users to create an “RDP session”, and remotely control the desktop of a distant computer (often referred to as the “client” computer/machine) or server. RDP is built directly into many newer versions of Windows and Mac operating systems.
During a remote desktop session, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) functions via network connection, allowing users to remote desktop connection, access, and control data (files, apps, etc). This technology requires the user to run RDP client software, and the other computer is required to run an RDP server software simultaneously.
Adversely, the online collaboration software, TeamViewer, is a powerful tool that’s compatible with an array of platforms like: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. TeamViewer permits users to create online meetings, transfer files, desktop sharing, and more… Conveniently, TeamViewer even allows users to access a remote desktop using their favorite web browser.
Feature
Microsoft Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)
Microsoft RDP allows users to access remote devices from a desktop computer, or by downloading the RDP app on their iOS/Android device.
For users operating RDP on mobile, the app provides distinct keys allowing modifiers such as “alt”, “control”, and “option”. The addition of these keys lets individuals use keyboard shortcuts, just like they would on a normal desktop keyboard.
Microsoft RDP also offers access to files housed on a remote machine, enabling effortless document printing/sharing- no matter where the user is in relation to the computer they’re accessing remotely.
Users can even configure their remote desktops to remain “awake”, ensuring that the machine is always ready for a remote connection. RDP is wonderful for administrators, as they can easily publish remote-access-related resources (like session-based desktop, virtual desktop, and RemoteApp programs).
TeamViewer
TeamViewer is compatible with Mac, Windows, Linux- and even iPhone devices. TeamViewer even provides a mobile app that is added to USB sticks or disks, making life much more convenient and efficient for travelers.
TeamViewer makes sharing demonstrations, presentations, and training videos quick and simple. Additionally, it provides a convenient “Status” display that helps your team locate and communicate with each other independently.
Best of all, TeamViewer can remotely access any machine, as it doesn’t need to be installed on a workstation other than that of the Technician. As long as a licensed version of TeamViewer is installed on the Tech’s desktop, they can easily access other desktops during customer support situations (and more).
There’s also a mobile version that’s placed on a USB stick (or stick), which makes this an efficient option for those that travel. Thanks to this flexibility, TeamViewer is a beloved software option in an array of settings.
| Feature | TeamViewer | Microsoft RDP |
|---|---|---|
| File Transfer | ||
| Session Recording Option | ||
| Audio Support | ||
| Session Transference | ||
| Remote Printing Functions | ||
| USB-Sharing Capabilities | ||
| “Real-Time” Chat Options | ||
| Access On Mobile |
Interface Comparison
Both remote assistance tools worked as advertised for us. They have a user-friendly interface that made it possible to locate all of their features. Image scaling was smooth with both apps and they provide easy connectivity for remote desktops and mobile devices.
Operating System
Both remote assistance accessibility apps support a multitude of operating systems, allowing users to cross-compare Zoho Assist and TeamViewer based on the number of OS with remote support access.
| Supported OS | TeamViewer | Microsoft RDP |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | ||
| MacOS | ||
| Android | ||
| Linux | ||
| iOS | ||
| iPadOS | ||
| Chrome OS |
Pros And Cons
Below we’ll cover the pros and cons of both remote access tools, allowing you the option to cross-compare them against AeroAdmin and TeamViewer.
TeamViewer:
Pros
- Supports Windows, Linux, Mac, Chrome, Android, iOS, and IoT
- Simple Install And Updating
- Team File-Sharing From Multiple Localities
- Simple Chat, Video, And Voice Call Communication
- Non-Commercial Use If Free
- No Router Configuration Required
- Can Organize Training Seminars For Up To 25 Participants
- Phenomenal Customer Support Team
- Easily Share Application Windows, Full Desktops, And Screens
- Drag And Drop File Share Capabilities
- Sends A Notification When Your Device Is Accessed Remotely
Cons
- Commercial-Use Licenses Are Expensive (And Required)
- Large File Sharing Unavailable
- Requires TeamViewer Installation On Both Participating Machines (Versions Must Match)
- Won’t Work Via Proxy Servers
- High-Speed And Consistent Network Connection Required
Microsoft RDP:
Pros
- Fast Internet Not Required Since A Remote Server Is Used To Run Apps
- Device Control and Monitoring Made Simple
- Connects From Any Device
- Easy File And Folder Access
- Fast Troubleshooting
Cons
- Advanced Configuration Needed
- Downtime = Network/System Inaccessibility
- Multi-User Environments Are Complex And Expensive
- Can’t Reboot Remotely
- 3rd-Party Software Required Under Certain Circumstances
- Pending On The Host’s Power (And Number Of Users Attempting To Connect Simultaneously) Bottlenecking Can Occur
- Only Works On Windows Devices
Pricing
Because a variety of pricing options are available for both tools, as well as the information provided about these apps, users can effortlessly compare pricing policy with tools like GoToMyPC and RDP.
RDP
Microsoft RDP is fully-compatible with Windows OS versions 8/10 but Windows Enterprise and Windows Pro are the only operating systems that can configure themselves for remote access.
For example: while any machine running Windows 8/10 (including Home) can remotely access another device, the other device must have Windows Pro or Windows Enterprise versions installed to be accessed remotely.
The cost for Windows 10 Pro starts at $200.00
TeamViewer
TeamViewer provides a free version, but it’s strictly for personal use. Users need to purchase the Business license to use TeamViewer commercially. Aside from the free version, TeamViewer offers three annually-billed subscription plans.
- Single-User Plan: $49.00/month (1 user can create 1 remote session)
- Multi-User Plan: $99.00/month (1 or more users can create 1 remote sessions)
- Teams Plan: $199.00/per month (multiple teams can create multiple connections via 1-3 open sessions)
| Pricing | Teamviewer | Microsoft RDP |
|---|---|---|
| Free Version Available | Yes | Yes |
| Free Trial Available | N/A | N/A |
| Business License Prices | $50.90 | $200-Up (Windows Pro) |
| Premium License Prices | $102.90 | N/A |
| Corporate License Prices | $206.90 | N/A |
Conclusion
Solving numerous problems, remote desktop tools are practical and often necessary now that the world is transitioning into more remote-styles of work.
For personal use, remote desktop access connects to servers/web hosts, establishing remote desktop connections to an in-office machine.
In B2B situations, remote desktop provides efficient solutions for IT infrastructure, security update management, as well as optimization procedures.
While numerous elements come into play when deciding on the right RDP alternative, the decision will rely heavily on the number of connections you plan to use, the size of your organization, and the information existing within the remote environment (like sensitive data that requires high-levels of security and encryption protection, for example).
The good news is: TeamViewer and Microsoft RDP have tons of advantages and features. While considering your specific needs plays the biggest role in selecting a remote desktop solution, we’ll wrap up by saying: TeamViewer provides an exceptional banquet of features that exceed expectations of what Remote desktop access can truly be.