15 Best Free Screen Sharing Software For Windows

Here is a list of 15 Best Free Screen Sharing Software. These software let you share your screen with one/many devices at once. These are basically Remote Access Software which let you share/view/access a computer on another computer. Screen sharing renders the host’s screen on viewer’s device, without providing the viewer a privilege of controlling the host device. Screen sharing has application at places where you don’t want to give control to the viewer, or if you want to monitor a device without disturbing the host. The devices may be located in the same network or remotely anywhere around the world. Host and viewer can communicate over a text chat or VoIP, depending upon the services provided by the software. These free screen sharers provide free remote desktop connection which can serve the purpose of remote support, online meeting, etc.

Windows Remote Assistance

Windows Remote Assistance is a remote desktop access tool provided by Microsoft. Its totally free to use and doesn’t require any external download or installation. Go to: My Computer properties > Remote settings, then allow connections from computers. Then go to Start menu and search for “Windows Remote Assistance”. The device which wants to share screen/requires assistance, should click on “Invite Someone to help”, a pin is generated, which needs to be punched into the device which wants to view. To view on another device, go to start menu and search for “Windows Remote Assistance” and click on “help someone who has invited you”. A window appears asking for the pin, after the pin is punched in, the host desktop can be viewed easily. This is a view only program, and for assistance a chat box has been provided as well. This is a basic screen sharing software and works without any trouble.

TeamViewer

Team Viewer is a screen sharing software, which renders remote desktop connection for free. This software is free to use for personal purpose, while commercial version needs to be paid for. It can be easily installed, and the UI is simple to use. Either you can setup a personal connection between two desktops, or you can use it in a Meeting Mode. The 1 to 1 connection gives full access of the device to the viewer, where as the Meeting Mode lets you to just share the screen to the viewers. 1-25 viewers can join a meeting. This free screen sharing program has various other useful options too that help for a healthy interaction.

AnyDesk

AnyDesk is a free screen sharing software, which lets you share screen with another WINDOWS device. This is one of the lightest Screen Sharing software and it works nicely. AnyDesk is a basic Remote Access Software, which provides options like screen sharing, audio output sharing, access to mouse and keyboard, access to clipboard. This software is required to be installed on both the computers for it to work. A key is generated for each computer, which should be typed into another computer (in the AnyDesk UI) where the sharing is required. While the connection is established, you can allow the type of access you want to grant. For example, if you just want to share your screen, then uncheck the options for sharing audio, mouse/keyboard controls.

UltraVNC

UltraVNC is a server/client based free Remote Access software. This is one of the most advanced screen sharer and can be calibrated according to needs. The non-commercial version of UltraVNC is free to use. Full installation of this software provides a server and a viewer option. To share screen, start the UltraVNC server. Run the UltraVNC viewer on the device where screen needs to be shared. Either full access or just viewing privilege can be granted to the viewer. If you are getting a hard time to figure out how to handle this software, watch this fantastic tutorial on installation and configuration of UltraVNC.
UltraVNC works without any flaw for computers on a same network, however Router port forwarding may be required for connections between two devices on different servers. Click here for tutorial on Router Port Forwarding.

ShowMyPC

ShowMyPC is a free remote screen sharing software. This remote access tool provides seamless connection between two devices. You can grant full access to another device or just share your screen. Chat, file transfer, screen recording & screenshot are other options that this screen sharing program offers. The UI and operation of this freeware is very simple and easy to understand.

Zoom is a cross platform Video Conferencing Service. This free software also provides screen sharing for free. The free screen sharing session lasts for 40 minutes and upto 25 participants can join in. A user needs to sign in in-order to broadcast screen, although a viewer needs not to sign in but type in a PIN generated by the host. It provides option to share desktop, a window or a chat screen. This screen sharing software also offers whiteboarding. It can be used as View only, or controls can be shared with a particular participant. Your Zoom account can be upgraded for unlimited usage options.

AnyMeeting

AnyMeeting is a free conferencing and screen sharing software. This software also has paid version, but the free version has almost all features of paid version except that the free version is ad-supported. This utility also offers unlimited meetings, unlimited 6-way conferencing, FACEBOOK & TWITTER integration, etc. All it requires is a free sign-up for “Ad-Supported Account” and you’ll be redirected to the download page. The UI is simple to use, and there’s a space for Advertisement on the left hand of UI. After a screen is shared, a pop-up asks you to invite people via e-mail. The email has link to the HTML page of the shared screen.

Remote Utilities

Remote Utilities is a remote computer access tool. This software is free to use for business purpose on upto 10 remote PCs. The installation pack comes with 2 files. One file installs host client on the PC which wants to share, another installs viewer interface on the viewer device. Copy the Internet ID from the sharing device and add it to the viewer PC to start a screen sharing session. This screen sharing software has an array of features to offer. Full control, view only, file transfer, task manager and chat are a few to name.

AeroAdmin

AeroAdmin is a light screen sharing software for PC. This software is totally free to use and download. Needs no installation, the downloaded file runs to serve its purpose. Both client and server options are included in a single interface. The software needs to be installed at both viewer and server device. Full control, file transfer and view only are the functions available with this free remote access software.

Mikogo

Mikogo is a free screen sharing software. This remote access tool can be used for non-commercial purposes for free. To host a screen, you need to download either the installable file (with advance options), or the portable version (fewer options) which requires no installation. Both versions can host and view a session. Full control or View only authority can be granted by the Presenter to any viewer. Chat/File transfer option makes this a very healthy remote access software. A session can also be viewed on a browser via HTML.

Join.Me

Another screen sharer packed with features to crave for. Free version of Join.Me provides option of screen sharing ability with/without mouse control. The interface is funky and easy to operate. Both host and viewer needs to download the installation file to establish a connection. The host generates a 9-digit code which needs to be entered on the viewer device. This remote access tool is free to use, however the paid version provides other options, like unlimited voice calls.

Skype

Skype is a revolutionary online communication software. This software serves the purpose of video chat and voice calling over internet, and is available for various platforms like, WINDOWS, LINUX, iOS, ANDROID, etc. Lately this fabulous software is expanding its horizon from just being a standard chat software to something more. Screen Sharing is one of the features that Skype has added to its list.

How to share screen on Skype:

Voice call the person you want to share screens with. After the call is initiated, click the “+” option, and go to “share screen”. You can either share the whole screen or just a part of it. It really is fast and works perfect.

Google+ Hangout

Google+ Hangout is a Google Chrome Extension and is generally used for Chat, Video calls & VoIP. Apart from these services, Hangout also provides services like Drawing Board, File Transfer & Screen Sharing.

How to Do Screen Sharing on Google Hangout

Download the Plug-in, login to your Google account, start a chat with the person you want to share screen with. To start a session of Screen sharing, a Video call must be initiated. You can either share your entire desktop, a particular window or Hangout chat screen. This doesn’t give remote access to your computer controls.

ScreenLeap

ScreenLeap is a browser based screen sharer which lets you broadcast your browser screen for others to view. You can download the ScreenLeap Google Chrome Plugin and start sharing. A sign up is required before you start sharing your screen. The plugin is easy to download. You can create a free account, which lets you use the facility for an hour/day and can be broadcasted to 8 devices/session. After you sign in and start the session, a URL is provided, which can be forwarded to people with whom you want to share the session with. You can upgrade to a paid version anytime, plans are available on the website.

DeadSimpleScreenSharing

DeadSimpleScreenSharing is a free Chrome Plugin which lets you share your browser screen. Download the plug-in, turn on the sharing and you are all set. The extension provides a URL, copy the URL and share it with the viewers. It’s the simplest screen sharer, and unlimited viewers can share the screen. The screen sharing is only limited to your browser. It only shares what is visible on your browser.

22 free screen-sharing apps for work-at-home collaboration

Want to share your screen to collaborate with a colleague, or remotely access someone’s computer to troubleshoot a technical problem? Whatever your screen-sharing need, here are 22 free collaboration apps that do the job.

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Contributing Writer, Computerworld |

The flood of employees working from home due to the Covid-19 outbreak has caused many companies to explore different ways for people to communicate and collaborate, with apps and services replacing in-person meetings or gather-around-a-desk sessions.

Screen sharing, where one person shares their computer’s desktop or a single application with one or more people, generally serves one of three purposes:

1. Quick collaboration and meetings between co-workers.
2. Client communications, such as sharing a presentation or other application.
3. Technical support for IT staffers (or any tech-savvy individual) looking to solve a remote worker’s computer issue.

Because of these different purposes, screen sharing is seen as a feature in different types of applications and services, from web conferencing and video chat services to remote access apps. In addition, there are a number of tools that just do screen sharing as their main functionality.

Fortunately, several of these apps and services have expanded their free offerings due to the current Covid-19 situation. Time limits on meetings, the number of participants allowed, and other restrictions on free versions have been lifted by some companies, at least temporarily.

Here is an array of apps and services that offer free screen-sharing capabilities, organized by the main focus of the tool (remote access, web conferencing, or screen sharing alone). Note that many free tools are not suitable for sensitive communications. Any organization that needs to share private company data should look to enterprise-level products.

Screen sharing as a primary function

Dead Simple Screen Sharing

Dead Simple offers screen sharing via web browser, through the installation of a Chrome or Firefox extension; no signup is required. An entire screen or just an application window can be shared with up to four participants — the host can email links to participants. The basic plan supports screen sharing and audio; other plans include videoconferencing features and support for up to 150 people for $18 per month.

Mikogo

The free version of Mikogo allows presenters to share their screen, document or application with one person live over the web. Participants do not need to download or install plug-ins. Voice conferencing and remote support features are also available, but not video conferencing. The service currently offers a free 14-day trial of Mikogo Professional, which allows up to 25 meeting participants; after the 14 days are complete, the account automatically changes to the free version.

Screenleap

Screenleap lets you share your screen instantly to any device with a browser. Sharing is supported from Windows, Mac, iOS, Android or any OS that supports the Chrome browser. With an app download, you can quickly “share your screen now” to start the share. There are no audio or videoconferencing features with the free version, but you can type in a chat window to communicate with participants. The free plan allows up to 40 minutes per day, up to eight viewers, and two meetings. Basic plans start at $15 per month, with higher-end plans available.

Show My PC

The person who is sharing their screen downloads an app, with Show My PC providing an access code for others to view. Viewers can then see the presenter’s screen, but not control anything. There are no audio or video capabilities either. The company also offers home or office PC access services starting at $5 per month.

Screen sharing through videoconferencing

AnyMeeting

AnyMeeting’s Pro Video Conferencing plan, normally $13/user/month, is now free for users through the rest of 2020. In addition to the videoconferencing features, screen-sharing tools include desktop sharing, application window sharing, and individual Chrome tab sharing options. Meeting participants can also annotate on a shared screen in real time during a meeting.

Cisco Webex Meetings

Cisco recently adjusted its meeting limits and participant limits for Webex; the free plan now gives you meetings with up to 100 participants (up from 50), HD video, screen sharing, and a personal room, with no time limits on meetings (it used to be 40 minutes). The service does require you to sign up for a Webex Meetings account.

Discord

Originally designed for gamers looking to connect via voice, video and text, Discord allows screen sharing among its many features. Discord “channels” can be set up via web browser, or an application can be downloaded to a computer. It works with multiple mobile devices as well. The host and participants need to register for an account.

Google Hangouts

In Google Hangouts video and audio calls, you can share your screen with other users. During a call, you have the option to choose a presenter and start a screen share. Hangouts are free and users just need a Google account — which most people have already. Users can schedule meetings through Google Calendar, which gives all attendees the meeting URL. Google also offers a business version of Hangouts called Google Hangouts Meet as part of its G Suite office suite.

Jitsi Meet

This free multi-platform, open-source videoconferencing service offers screen-sharing capabilities during calls, including the ability for a host to share YouTube videos with participants. No accounts or downloads are required to use Jitsi Meet. Calls can be hosted right through the website, with Chrome extensions also available. People can be invited through a simple, custom URL, and users can trade messages and emojis with integrated chat during calls.

Proficonf

The free version of Proficonf offers unlimited meeting times with up to two participants and supports screen sharing, media sharing (including YouTube links), file sharing and a whiteboard. Additional Pro and Premium versions offer more participants (up to 250 in premium), along with additional permanent rooms. The host needs to sign up for an account.

Skype

One of the original videoconferencing services via account and download, Microsoft-owned Skype also allows you to create video meetings with no sign-ups or downloads if you don’t feel like downloading the app or signing up for an account. Screen sharing is supported through the free call offering. For companies looking to expand collaboration options for remote workers beyond video calls and screen sharing, Microsoft has a free version of its Teams software available to download; Teams is also included with many Office 365 business plans.

UberConference

The free version of UberConference supports up to 10 participants, but there is a 45-minute time limit on calls, and PINs are required. These can usually be handled through a calendaring application, however. Screen sharing is started through a share button on the UberConference dashboard.

Whereby

With Whereby, video meetings are conducted through a browser — no downloads or logins are required for guests. The free version gives you one user and one meeting room for up to four participants, with Pro and Business versions offering additional meeting rooms and users. The free version also supports YouTube video watching in addition to basic screen-sharing functions.

Zoom’s basic plan is free and allows for an unlimited number of meetings, with no time limits for one-to-one meetings. For meetings between three to 100 people, a 40-minute time limit is instituted, with upgrades available for longer meetings. Screen sharing includes desktop, application window and whiteboard, and also a connected iPhone or iPad (via AirPlay or cable).

Screen sharing through remote access

AnyDesk

The AnyDesk remote desktop software supports many different operating systems, including Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome OS and even Raspberry Pi. It’s free for personal use; business plans start at $11 per month.

Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop lets you access another computer through a Chrome browser, a Chromebook, or an Android or iOS device. You can set it up for short-term access, such as for ad hoc remote support, or longer for remote access to applications and files. It offers cross-platform support, including Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.

LiteManager Free

LiteManager Free is remote desktop software that includes the main functions and features of the regular LiteManager program (omitting extras like audio-video chat, recording, and ticketing). It lets you control up to 30 computers.

MingleView

MingleView, a free peer-to-peer Remote Desktop sharing and control-based application, also lets you host online meetings and presentations with friends, family and work colleagues. Participants can join a meeting or troubleshoot any PC with a six-digit meeting ID. The tool supports unlimited participants and connections and works on Windows computers only; no Mac version available.

Remote Utilities

The Remote Utilities remote access program lets you connect to a remote PC over LAN or the internet. The free edition offers 16 different connection modes, firewall bypass capabilities, and connection over the internet by ID or by IP address/DNS name. A commercial edition is also available.

TeamViewer

TeamViewer lets you establish a connection to any PC or server within a few seconds, controlling the PC remotely as if you were sitting in front of the system. In addition to screen sharing, users can share video and audio with participants, and you can opt to show parts of your screen or individual applications if you want to avoid sharing an entire desktop. File sharing, chat and whiteboard features are also supported. The app requires a download, and you can email meeting invitations to other participants. TeamViewer is free for personal, non-commercial users — generally for students, friends and family support.

UltraViewer

The free UltraViewer app lets you control a partner’s computer to support them as if you were sitting in front of their screen. You can send and receive files via a chat window, as well as toggle the chat on and off. It supports screen sharing with multiple computers but is available for Windows only (XP, 7, 8, 10, Windows Server).

VNC Connect

The VNC Connect service offers a free home subscription for personal or hobbyist use, which lets you access up to five internet-connected computers securely from any device running the VNC Viewer app. However, the company doesn’t offer any support for home subscriptions. A 30-day free trial of the company’s Professional and Enterprise versions is also offered. Using the tool requires downloading the VNC Server app to the computer you want to control and the VNC Viewer app on the device you want to control from; both apps are available for an array of operating systems including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android and Chrome OS.

Keith Shaw is a freelance digital journalist who has written about the IT world for more than 20 years.