Best TeamViewer & AnyDesk Alternatives on Linux (2026)
Aktualisiert am
If you are moving from Windows to Linux, you likely relied on TeamViewer or AnyDesk for quick remote access. While those clients have Linux versions, many users prefer native, open-source solutions that integrate better with the desktop environment and avoid proprietary cloud dependencies. The good news is that Linux offers several mature alternatives that handle both personal use and professional support scenarios.
The Best All-Rounder: RustDesk
RustDesk is the closest direct replacement for TeamViewer in terms of ease of use. It is open-source (AGPL-3.0) and requires no port forwarding if you use their public relay servers, though you can host your own for privacy. It supports remote control, file transfer, and multi-monitor setups. For most users switching from Windows, this is the first tool to try because it just works with minimal configuration.
For Power Users: Remmina
Remmina is a comprehensive remote desktop client that supports RDP, VNC, SSH, and X2Go. It is particularly useful if you need to connect to Windows machines via RDP or manage multiple server connections. Unlike TeamViewer, Remmina is a client that connects to existing services; you must have RDP enabled on Windows or VNC/SPICE on Linux. It is ideal for users who want a single GUI to manage all their remote connections.
High-Performance Support: NoMachine
NoMachine is a proprietary solution known for its low latency and high frame rates, making it suitable for video editing or gaming over remote desktop. It supports Linux, Windows, and macOS. While it is not open-source, it offers a free version for personal use. If you find RustDesk or VNC too laggy for graphical work, NoMachine is the standard professional choice for remote support.
Simple VNC Access: TigerVNC
TigerVNC is a lightweight, GPL-licensed viewer for connecting to VNC servers. It is less feature-rich than RustDesk or Remmina but is excellent for simple, direct connections to Linux hosts running a VNC server. If you are already using VNC on your network, this is the most stable and lightweight client to use.
SSH for Command Line Control
For server administration or headless systems, PuTTY remains a reliable SSH client. While not a graphical remote desktop tool, it is essential for troubleshooting remote Linux machines where a GUI is not available. It is free, MIT-licensed, and works well for quick command-line access to remote network devices.
Fazit
For most users switching from Windows, RustDesk is the recommended starting point due to its simplicity and cross-platform compatibility. If you need to manage a mix of Windows and Linux machines, install Remmina alongside it. For heavy graphical remote work, consider NoMachine. Avoid relying on proprietary cloud relays if privacy is a concern; hosting your own RustDesk server or using direct VNC/SSH connections is often better for long-term use.
Häufige Fragen
Can I use RustDesk without a public IP?
Yes, RustDesk uses relay servers to connect clients, so it works behind NAT or firewalls without port forwarding. However, for better performance and privacy, you can set up your own relay server.
Is Remmina better than TeamViewer for Windows connections?
Remmina uses standard RDP, which is more secure and open than TeamViewer's proprietary protocol. It requires RDP to be enabled on the Windows machine, but it offers a cleaner, less bloated experience.
Do these tools support file transfer?
RustDesk and NoMachine have built-in file transfer features. Remmina supports file transfer over RDP and SSH. For VNC, file transfer is usually handled via shared folders or separate tools.
Which tool has the lowest latency?
NoMachine generally offers the lowest latency and highest frame rates for graphical content. RustDesk is also optimized for low latency, especially on LAN connections. VNC and RDP performance varies depending on the network and codec settings.