Top 10 FastX Alternatives for Seamless Remote Linux Desktops
FastX is a popular choice for those seeking an affordable and effective X Windows solution for remote Linux desktop access. While FastX offers a free demo and serves many users well, the need for a FastX alternative often arises due to specific feature requirements, platform compatibility, pricing models, or a desire for open-source solutions. This article explores the best FastX alternatives to help you find the perfect remote access software for your needs.
Top FastX Alternatives
Whether you're looking for advanced collaboration tools, robust security features, cross-platform compatibility, or simply a free and open-source option, there's a FastX alternative out there for you. Here are some of the top contenders that offer excellent remote desktop and X Windows capabilities.
TeamViewer
TeamViewer is a robust FastX alternative that allows you to establish connections to any PC or server within seconds. Available on a wide range of platforms including Free Personal, Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iPhone, Chrome OS, and even Raspberry Pi, it's known for its comprehensive feature set. Key features include remote control, remote reboot, support for multiple monitors, audio and video calling, drag and drop, unattended access, and desktop sharing, making it ideal for support and collaboration.
AnyDesk
AnyDesk is a strong FastX alternative focusing on speed and security for remote desktop and file sharing across most devices. It supports Free Personal, Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iPhone, Chrome OS, BSD, and Raspberry Pi. Its notable features include integrated file sharing, unattended access, cross-platform compatibility, lightweight design, low bandwidth usage, real-time collaboration, and the ability to record desktop activity, making it a highly efficient choice.
Remmina
Remmina stands out as a powerful open-source and copyleft FastX alternative, specifically designed for Linux and BSD. It’s a remote desktop client that supports various plugins and protocols, including RDP, SSH, and VNC. Its features include fullscreen support, group management, support for multiple protocols, and a convenient tabbed interface, providing a flexible and robust solution for open-source enthusiasts.
UltraVNC
UltraVNC is a free and open-source FastX alternative for Windows that allows you to display the screen of another PC via LAN or the Internet. It offers essential remote desktop features like file transfer, integrated chat, and a VNC viewer and server. Its lightweight and portable nature, combined with the ability to store connection configurations per PC, make it a convenient choice for Windows users seeking a straightforward solution.
TightVNC
TightVNC is a free and open-source remote control software package, serving as a solid FastX alternative. Available for Windows, Linux, and BSD, it allows users to see and control a remote machine's desktop using their local mouse and keyboard. Key features include a VNC Viewer, integrated file sharing, lightweight design, portability, and two-factor authentication, making it a secure and accessible option for various operating systems.
VNC Connect
VNC Connect is a Freemium FastX alternative that provides screen sharing software, allowing you to connect to a remote computer anywhere in the world. It supports Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iPhone, Chrome OS, BSD, and Raspberry Pi. With features like VNC Viewer, SSH, VNC protocol, VNC Server, and the ability to work behind firewalls, VNC Connect offers a reliable and secure way to access remote desktops.
LogMeIn
LogMeIn is a commercial remote access software that acts as a comprehensive FastX alternative, enabling you to access your desktop from most computers and smart devices. It is available on Mac, Windows, Web, Android, and iPhone. Its primary features include remote desktop access, integrated file sharing, and portability, making it a versatile solution for professionals needing consistent access on the go.
NoMachine
NoMachine is a Freemium FastX alternative offering enterprise-class speed and features for accessing remote computers, supporting any content including audio and video. It runs on Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iPhone, and Raspberry Pi. Key features include ad-free experience, integrated file sharing, KVM over IP, media streaming, desktop activity recording, remote desktop server, SSH, and X server, providing a high-performance remote experience.
X2Go
X2Go is an open-source remote desktop software for Linux, making it a strong FastX alternative that utilizes the NX technology protocol. While mainly used for accessing PC desktops, it shines in its main use case for remote Linux desktops. It supports Mac, Windows, Linux, and BSD. Features include low bandwidth usage, selective folder sharing, desktop sharing, printer sharing, SSH, and support for various desktop environments like KDE and XFCE, making it a highly efficient open-source solution.
DWService
DWService is a free and open-source FastX alternative that allows access to remote systems using a standard web browser. It is available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and Raspberry Pi. Its features include ad-free usage, multiplatform support, remote desktop, remote monitoring, remote terminal, log analytics, proxy support, remote file access, and remote shell access, offering a web-based, flexible solution for remote management.
Choosing the best FastX alternative depends entirely on your specific needs, whether that's robust features, open-source flexibility, cross-platform support, or a particular pricing model. We encourage you to explore these options further to find the perfect fit for your remote Linux desktop requirements.