For a small business, growth is the ultimate goal, but it brings a specific set of operational challenges. As you add more employees, clients, and data, the simple ad-hoc processes that worked for a team of two often break down. This is particularly true for IT infrastructure. Suddenly, you have a sales director who needs to access the CRM from a hotel room, a graphic designer who needs to access heavy files from home, and an external accountant who needs temporary access to your financial server.
In this phase of scaling, remote access software becomes the central nervous system of your operations. It allows your team to be productive from anywhere, turning any laptop or tablet into a secure extension of the office. However, the stakes are high. Choosing a tool that is too complex will drain your limited IT resources, while choosing one that is insecure could expose your growing database to ransomware.
Below are five of the top remote access tools that cater specifically to the needs of growing organizations, selected for their ability to deliver robust capabilities that can scale with your business.
1. Splashtop
For growing businesses that need a “do-it-all” solution, Splashtop is widely regarded as the top contender. It distinguishes itself by offering high-performance connectivity that rivals in-person usage. Unlike basic remote tools, which often suffer from lag, Splashtop’s engine can stream 4K video at high frame rates. This makes it a viable option for businesses in creative fields, such as architecture, video editing, or game development, where precise mouse control and visual fidelity are non-negotiable.
Splashtop is also built to scale securely. It includes features that are essential for a growing company, such as centralized user management, which allows you to onboard or offboard employees in seconds. Security is robust, featuring Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), device authentication, and compliance with standards such as HIPAA and GDPR. Its pricing model is typically more transparent and affordable than legacy enterprise tools, making it the best remote access solution for small businesses that need to manage cash flow while upgrading their tech stack.
2. TSplus
TSplus bundles Remote Access, Remote Support, Advanced Security, and Server Monitoring into one platform, eliminating the need for multiple vendors. Whether you prefer one-time purchases or subscriptions, TSplus keeps remote access costs low for small and mid-sized businesses. Built-in screen sharing and unattended access make troubleshooting and user support fast and efficient. Access full Windows desktops or publish individual applications easily from any location on any device.
While it may not offer the high frame rate required for high-end graphic design work, its strength lies in “unattended access” for server management and its seamless ad hoc support capabilities. According to Gartner’s analysis of digital workplace trends, the ability to provide frictionless remote support is a key indicator of a company’s digital maturity and operational efficiency.
3. Chrome Remote Desktop
For the solopreneur or the very early-stage startup, Chrome Remote Desktop is the ultimate low-friction tool. It runs entirely in Google Chrome and is completely free for personal and basic commercial use. It works across Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, making it incredibly versatile for teams that use a mix of personal devices (BYOD).
The setup takes less than five minutes: you install a browser extension, set a PIN, and you are connected. However, this simplicity is also its ceiling. It lacks the administrative controls, audit logs, and granular user permissions that a growing business will eventually need. It is an excellent stopgap solution for a team of three, but once you start hiring and need to enforce security policies, you will likely outgrow it.
4. Microsoft Remote Desktop
If your small business runs entirely on Windows, Microsoft Remote Desktop is a logical starting point. Built directly into Windows Pro and Enterprise, it offers a “native” experience. There is no third-party software to install on the host machine, and it supports all Windows shortcuts and gestures perfectly.
For a small business with zero budget for new software, this is often the default choice. However, it comes with a caveat: it is difficult to secure without technical expertise. Exposing RDP ports to the internet is dangerous, so it typically requires setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) or a Remote Desktop Gateway. While it is free and powerful, it lacks the centralized dashboard found in paid solutions, meaning as you grow past 10 or 20 users, managing individual connections can become a headache for your IT person.
5. AnyViewer
AnyViewer is a secondary competitor that has gained traction for its straightforward approach to remote desktop access. It offers a clean interface and features like file transfer and multi-monitor support, which are often hidden behind paywalls in other free tools. For a small team needing to bridge the gap between home and office without a steep learning curve, it provides a functional alternative.
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), cybersecurity incidents are particularly devastating for smaller firms, underscoring the importance of choosing secure tools. Finding the right balance requires a solution that offers enterprise-grade security without the enterprise-level complexity.
While it lacks some of the deep enterprise integrations found in top-tier solutions, it serves as a reliable middle-ground for businesses that need more features than Chrome Remote Desktop but are not yet ready for a full enterprise deployment. It is part of a growing class of tools that prioritize “quick-start” accessibility for non-technical users in a hybrid work environment.
Conclusion
Selecting the right remote access tool is a pivotal decision for a growing small business. If you are a solo operator, free tools like Chrome Remote Desktop might suffice. If you are a pure Windows shop with IT expertise, Microsoft’s native tools are cost-effective. However, for a growing business that needs a professional, scalable, and high-performance solution that works across all devices, remains the premier choice. By choosing the tool that aligns with your growth trajectory, you ensure that your technology accelerates your business rather than holding it back.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the most important feature for a small business remote access tool?
Security is the most critical feature. Since small businesses are frequent targets for ransomware, your tool must have Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and device authentication to prevent unauthorized access, even if a password is stolen.
- Can I just use a VPN instead of these tools?
You can, but it is often less efficient. A VPN connects you to the network, but you still need a way to control the computer. Dedicated remote access software handles screen sharing and control much faster than opening files over a VPN tunnel, especially for large files.
- Is it hard to switch tools later as my business grows?
It can be. Switching requires uninstalling the old “agent” software from every computer and installing the new one. This is why it is better to choose a scalable solution early on that allows you to simply add licenses as you hire new employees, rather than changing your entire infrastructure.
- Does remote access work on mobile devices?
Yes, most modern solutions offer apps for iOS and Android. This allows you to view and control your office computer from a tablet or smartphone, which is useful for quick tasks while on the move.
- How much bandwidth does remote access use?
For standard office work, it uses very little. However, if you are doing high-end graphic design or video editing, you will need a stable connection with higher upload speeds to ensure a smooth, lag-free experience.