Uncovering the Best USB Redirector Alternatives for Seamless Remote Access
USB Redirector is a popular software solution that enables users to share and access USB devices remotely over a network, treating them as if they were directly connected to their local PC. It’s incredibly useful for various tasks, from sharing printers to accessing security dongles. However, for diverse needs, specific budgets, or different operating systems, exploring a robust USB Redirector alternative can provide enhanced features, better compatibility, or a more tailored user experience.
Top USB Redirector Alternatives
While USB Redirector offers excellent functionality, a range of other tools provide similar, and in some cases, superior capabilities for remote USB device access. Here’s a look at some of the best alternatives available today:
VirtualHere
VirtualHere is a powerful commercial alternative to USB Redirector that allows USB devices to be used remotely over a network just as if they were locally connected. It supports a wide range of platforms including Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and Raspbian (ideal for Raspberry Pi users). Its key features include sharing USB devices, hardware keys, and enabling USB over Wi-Fi, making it a versatile choice for various remote access scenarios.
USB/IP
USB/IP is a free and open-source project designed to develop a general USB device sharing system over an IP network. It allows users to share USB devices between computers with their full functionality. Available for Windows and Linux, USB/IP is an excellent open-source USB Redirector alternative for those seeking a cost-free and customizable solution.
FlexiHub
FlexiHub is a commercial software solution that stands out as a strong USB Redirector alternative for sharing USB and serial devices over a network. It provides an easy and convenient way to access a remote USB port over IP. FlexiHub is available across multiple platforms, including Mac, Windows, and Linux, and offers Software as a Service (SaaS) options, with a notable feature for remote desktop integration.
USB Network Gate
USB Network Gate is a commercial product that ensures seamless access and management of USB devices plugged into remote computers, making it a robust USB Redirector alternative. It supports Mac, Windows, Linux, and Android platforms, offering broad compatibility for various network environments.
USB over Network
USB over Network is a user-friendly commercial application that serves as an effective USB Redirector alternative, enabling access to USB devices over LAN or the Internet. It allows users to work with remote USB devices as if they were locally connected. This software is available for Windows and Linux, and notably offers a portable version for flexible deployment.
USB for Remote Desktop
USB for Remote Desktop is a commercial application specifically designed for redirecting USB devices to your remote session over RDP or ICA, making it a specialized USB Redirector alternative for virtualized environments. It supports Windows and Linux platforms, ensuring broad utility for users working with remote desktop solutions.
Donglify
Donglify is a commercial software solution specifically addressing the challenge of sharing USB security dongles over a network connection. As a professional-grade USB Redirector alternative, it's particularly useful for businesses needing to provide remote access to software licenses protected by physical dongles. It is available for Windows.
USB over Ethernet
USB over Ethernet is a commercial solution that allows users to share USB devices over Ethernet or the Internet, enabling access to remote USB devices as if they are plugged into your local computer. This makes it a comprehensive USB Redirector alternative, particularly useful for Windows users who need reliable remote USB connectivity.
Choosing the right USB Redirector alternative depends largely on your specific requirements, including budget, operating system, and desired features like portability or specialized dongle sharing. We encourage you to explore these options to find the best fit for your remote USB access needs.