The Mountain View company has launched, for its Android mobile operating system, a new application that allows you to make remote control of computers PC or Mac from the Chrome web browser itself. This is a new remote control client developed by Google that connects directly to the Google Chrome session, allowing you to perform a real-time remote control from the desktop of a PC or Mac.
To make use of Chrome Remote Desktop We will need the application for the Android mobile operating system installed on our smartphone or tablet and, on the other hand, the corresponding software for our Windows or Mac PC computer. In this way, we will not only have the possibility of making a remote computer control paired but, in addition, we will have available a list of recent teams and favorites. This will make it easier for us to access multiple computers connected to the same local network—WiFi or Wi-Fi and cable.
Google makes it easy to remotely control PC and Mac from Android with Chrome Remote Desktop
The configuration of the application corresponding to the device with Android mobile operating system and, on the other hand, the corresponding to the PC or Mac computer, is really easy, fast and intuitive. In addition, once inside the controls are carried out with the touch screen or using touchpad-type gestures. Some may interface elements appear small, because Windows and macOS are designed for large screens; however, you can switch between touch mode y touchpad mode to improve accuracy.
If you want to start installing You can find the Android application on Google Play. It is compatible with most current devices; if you have an older terminal, you can always opt for a Custom ROM (such as LineageOS, the successor to CyanogenMod) to keep your device up to date. Please note that the fluency control will depend on the connection speed and the latency of your network.
How to use Chrome Remote Desktop: access, sharing, and advanced options
Chrome Remote Desktop allows unattended access to your devices (PIN protected) and remote assistance with single-use codes that expire and require your periodic confirmation. From a computer, visit remotedesktop.google.com/access to configure remote access; for assistance, use remotedesktop.google.com/support and generates a access code temporary. On Android, open the app, log in with your Google account, and you'll see your available devices.
In Linux, in addition to installing the host, you can customize the environment by creating $HOME/.chrome-remote-desktop-session and indicating the command of your desktop (for example, GNOME o Cinnamon) to always start that environment in virtual sessions.
If you notice security software blocks, make sure to allow traffic. TCP 443 (HTTPS), UDP outgoing and incoming response and TCP/UDP 3478 (STUN) in your antivirus or firewall. All sessions are end-to-end encrypted.
Cross-platform alternatives: AnyViewer, TeamViewer, AnyDesk and Splashtop
- AnyViewer: unattended remote access, support for Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, great performance, support multi-monitor y virtual mouse. Useful for managing multiple computers and, on higher plans, monitoring multiple devices and groups.
- TeamViewer: strong encryption, file transfer, remote printing, chat and unattended access. Requires an account and may detect uses it considers commercial.
- AnyDesk: very agile, with address book, Wake-on-LAN, recording sessions and two factor authentication. Free for personal use.
- Splashtop: focus on audio/video quality and ease of use, with MFA, access notifications and security controls for professional environments.
Windows RDP with VPN: Maximum security for office and teleworking
If you use Windows Remote Desktop (RDP), it's best to enable it on your PC and connect with the official Android app. For Internet connections, avoid exposing the RDP port publicly and use a VPN (OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IPsec) to encapsulate traffic. This way, you connect to the computer's private IP address in an encrypted manner, mitigating attacks on the service.
VNC and open source options
With VNC You can control equipment on almost any platform. Solutions like TightVNC o UltraVNC are free; TigerVNC It performs very well, although it is advisable to tunnel via SSH or VPN to add encryption. X2GB offers remote sessions over SSH with good performance on limited connections, ideal for light work and secure access.
Access your Mac from Android
In addition to Chrome Remote Desktop, tools such as AnyViewer, TeamViewer, AnyDesk o Splashtop permiten control macOS from Android. Set up the host on your Mac, log in to the mobile app, and select the device to connect to; interaction is done with touch gestures, virtual keyboards, and support for multiple monitors when available.
Mobile performance: 5G, latency and image quality
With networks 5G you improve the speed, latency and stability connection, which translates to more responsive controls, sharper video, and less stuttering. Still, the experience depends on the bandwidth from both ends, network congestion and software limitations.
Good security practices and troubleshooting
- Active MFA/2FA on supported services and uses unique passwords and complex.
- limit the unattended access to trusted teams, create lists of Allowed IDs when possible and lock the screen after inactivity.
- Check antivirus/firewall to allow necessary traffic and keep Chrome/Chrome OS and control apps updated.
More useful tools and use cases
Iperius Remote stands out for its end-to-end encryption, TLS 1.3 and two-factor authentication, with highly polished apps for Android and iOS. Supremo Control facilitates reverse connections without opening ports and management of multiple devices. Jump Desktop combines RDP and VNC with great touch usability. GoToMyPC offers strong encryption and multi-monitor support. For support or meetings, ShowMyPC y Mikogo simplify screen sharing. If you just need access files, solutions such as Resilio Sync (P2P), Google Drive, Dropbox u OneDrive can be simpler.
El ecosystem remote access from Android is broad and matureChrome Remote Desktop provides simplicity and end-to-end encryption; RDP with VPN and VNC/SSH provide full control and advanced security; and suites like AnyViewer, TeamViewer, AnyDesk, or Splashtop add professional functions such as multi-monitor, file transfer, and device management, to cover everything from one-off support to daily work.
Source: engadget.com
