Unlocking Connectivity: The Best USB over Network Alternatives

USB over Network is a valuable tool, renowned for its user-friendly approach to accessing USB devices across LAN or the Internet. It simplifies the process of sharing and remotely connecting to USB peripherals over a standard TCP/IP connection, making remote device management effortless. However, like any software, users may seek a USB over Network alternative for various reasons, including specific feature requirements, platform compatibility, or pricing considerations. This article explores top-tier alternatives that offer similar, and in some cases enhanced, capabilities for sharing USB devices across networks.

Top USB over Network Alternatives

Whether you're looking for open-source solutions, cross-platform compatibility, or advanced features, there's a USB sharing solution out there for you. Dive into our curated list to find the perfect fit.

USB/IP

USB/IP

USB/IP Project stands out as a robust open-source and free alternative to USB over Network. It aims to develop a general USB device sharing system over IP networks, allowing users to share USB devices between computers with their full functionality. Available on Windows and Linux, it's an excellent choice for those seeking a highly customizable and cost-free solution.

VirtualHere

VirtualHere

VirtualHere is a commercial solution that excels at making USB devices behave as if they are locally connected, even when accessed remotely over a network. Supporting a wide range of platforms including Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and Raspberry Pi, VirtualHere is a versatile USB over Network alternative. It boasts features like sharing USB devices, hardware keys, and USB over Wi-Fi, making it ideal for diverse environments.

FlexiHub

FlexiHub

FlexiHub offers a revolutionary software solution for sharing both USB and serial devices over a network, presenting itself as a strong USB over Network alternative. This commercial software-as-a-service (SaaS) is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux. Its standout feature is remote desktop integration, providing an easy and convenient way to access remote USB ports over IP.

USB Network Gate

USB Network Gate

USB Network Gate is a powerful commercial alternative to USB over Network, ensuring seamless access and management of USB devices connected to remote computers. It supports Mac, Windows, Linux, and Android, making it a highly versatile choice for cross-platform environments. Its robust design guarantees reliable remote USB device access.

USB for Remote Desktop

USB for Remote Desktop

USB for Remote Desktop is a dedicated commercial application designed for redirecting USB devices to your remote session. It serves as an effective USB over Network alternative, specifically for those working within RDP or ICA remote desktop environments. Compatible with Windows and Linux, it ensures any USB device is accessible as if it were locally plugged in.

Donglify

Donglify

Donglify provides a professional-grade software solution for sharing USB security dongles over a network connection, making it a specialized USB over Network alternative. This commercial application, available for Windows, specifically addresses the challenge of distributing USB dongle access across a network, eliminating the need for physical dongle transfer.

USB over Ethernet

USB over Ethernet

USB over Ethernet is a commercial software solution designed to share USB devices over Ethernet or the Internet, allowing users to access remote USB devices as if they are directly plugged into their local computer. Available for Windows, it's a direct competitor and a viable USB over Network alternative, offering similar core functionality for remote USB access.

Choosing the right USB over Network alternative depends on your specific requirements, including budget, desired features, and operating system. We encourage you to explore these options further to find the perfect solution that best fits your unique connectivity needs.

William Hall

William Hall

A former developer turned content strategist who enjoys demystifying tech for readers.