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.

6 Best Screen Sharing Apps to Remote Connect to Any PC

All of which have free versions

Screen sharing apps are very useful for helping people with computer issues, no matter where you or they are located. This may include helping family members with computer problems or helping work colleagues with issues from anywhere in the world.

Some screen sharing apps are simple cloud-based apps that let you launch a video conference where either you or the other person can share their screen and then offer control to the other person in the conference. Other screen sharing apps are fully functional remote-support applications that let you also access the file system of the other computer you’re connected to.

The screen share app that you choose depends on what you need to do and what you need to access on the remote system.

1. TeamViewer

There is no list of screen sharing apps that wouldn’t have TeamViewer at the very top of the list. It’s a very popular, commonly used app for remote support.

The reason it’s so popular is because there’s a free version anyone can use for non-commercial uses. It’s also extremely easy to use.

When you first download and run the TeamViewer installer, you’ll have the option to set up a full version (Basic installation), or just set it up as a service (unattended) for remote access from another computer.

Ideally, you’ll install the basic installation on the computer where you’re attempting to access the remote computer. Then, on the remote computer, have the remote user download and install TeamViewer using the “unattended” option.

If you’ve selected Advanced Settings in the previous setup screen, you’ll have the option of enabling some of the advanced features that come with TeamViewer. These include including a printer driver to remotely print, a VPN feature, or an add-in to enable TeamViewer sessions from inside of Outlook.

The easiest way to connect to another computer using TeamViewer is if you’re on the same network. If this is the case, just select the dropdown under Partner ID.

In the list, you’ll see remote computers that are also logged in under your TeamViewer account. You can select this computer to instantly connect and view the remote screen.

On the remote computer, the user will need to confirm that you have permission to remotely connect.

Once they click Allow, you can see and control their remote screen.

If you log into the remote TeamViewer installation with your TeamViewer account, all you’ll need to do to remote into that remote computer is type the password as part of the connection process.

You’ll notice a control panel at the top of the window that you can use for various functions that’ll help you use the remote computer as well as communicate with the remote user.

Some of those features include:

• Leave a note on the screen for the remote user to find later
• Lock, sign out of, or reboot the computer
• Send Cntrl-Alt-Delete or other key combinations
• Change the scaling of the view or screen resolution
• Adjust view quality settings
• Add a side panel to communicate with the user
• Initiate a call via phone or internet
• Launch a video call
• Annotate over the screen so the remote user can see it
• Transfer files
• Record the session
• Print from the remote computer

As you can see, TeamViewer is full featured and a very powerful tool for remotely connecting to and controlling a remote computer.

2. Windows Quick Assist

Another useful tool for remote screen sharing that’s not only free, but also comes pre-installed with Windows, is the Windows Quick Assist tool.

If you’re helping another person who uses the latest version of Windows, you just need to make sure that you’re both running the Quick Assist tool.

To open the tool, select the Start menu, type Quick Assist, and select the Quick Assist tool to open it.

Once it’s open, select Assist another person to get started.

You’ll need to sign into your Microsoft account to continue. When you first set up your computer, you likely had to create a Microsoft account. That’s the one you’ll need to use here.

Once you’re done, you’ll see a security code that you can provide to the remote user.

The remote user just needs to type the code and select Share screen.

Then, they need to select Allow to provide you permission to connect.

On your computer, select Continue to finish the connection.

Finally, the two computers will link, and you’ll see a full screen view of what the user is seeing.

Now you can take control, move the mouse around, and help the remote user with any issues they’re having.

The top menu of the shared screen includes a panel of controls for you to use on the remote computer.

• Select any monitor
• Add annotations to the screen
• Use an “instruction channel” to pass messages to the remote user
• Restart the computer
• Launch task manager

Windows Quick Assist is one of the easiest (and free!) screen sharing methods available. It’s fast, easy, and nearly everyone owns a Windows computer.

3. Skype

Skype has always been king when it comes to videoconferencing. And of course, any videoconferencing software that you can use to view someone’s desktop makes for an ideal remote support tool.

The free version of Skype is good for connecting to the remote desktop by calling the user and having them share their screen with you. You can initiate a videoconference by selecting the video camera icon above their profile.

Once you’re in the videoconference, either attendee (more than two are possible), can select the Share Screen icon at the bottom of the screen to immediately share their desktop with everyone else in the meeting.

Once the remote screen displays, you may need to select the Share Screen button at the bottom of the screen to finish sharing it with all other people in the conference.

Once the screen is shared, other people in the conference can walk the person sharing the screen through troubleshooting tips to fix their computer problem.

Skype screen-sharing quality is excellent, and the screen updates are quick.

With the free version of Skype, offering remote support needs to involve voice chatting combined with the person sharing their screen controlling the mouse.

However, with the premium or business version of Skype, you’ll see an option while you’re sharing your screen to provide control to other people on the conference call.

4. Join.Me

If you’d like to have a screen-sharing session using an easy to use app, you can’t go wrong with Join.Me.

When you sign up with Join.Me, you can create a web link to use for your screen sharing sessions. You can click Start under Start a Meeting to launch your session.

You can send any number of users your custom join.me link so they can join the session with you.

You can send them the link in an IM yourself, or select the send an email link to send the user an email with the connection code.

When they join your session, you’ll need to select allow to let them join the video conference.

Just like Skype, the free version of Join.Me lets you share you screen and chat with other users in the session. This means the person who needs computer troubleshooting help needs to set up the session and invite users.

However, the premium version of Join.Me allows for passing mouse control to anyone in the session, making it an idea screen sharing and remote troubleshooting tool.

Other Pro features include annotating on the screen and recording the troubleshooting session.

5. Screenleap

If you really don’t want to install a full-fledged application on your computer just for the purpose of screen sharing, Screenleap is a good solution. It installs as a Google extension and allows you to quickly share your screen with anyone over the internet in just seconds.

The first time you run the application, you’ll need to select Open Screenleap Start Application and enable Always open these types of links in the associated app.

Once you launch the app, you can change what you’re sharing using the dropdown list. Either share your entire desktop or share just a portion that you draw inside a rectangle.

You’ll see your Screenleap session has a code listed at the top. You can tell anyone to visit screenleap.com, type the special code, and select View screen to see your shared screen session.

To share you screen out using this app, you have two options from Screenleap.com. You can select Broadcast screen and share out your desktop to anyone who has your URL link (requires that you sign up for an account with your email). Or, you can select Share screen to immediately share out your screen and get the code to send to the person you want to share your screen with.

The screen share works well, but there’s some lag since the transmission is sent and received form your browser to the remote user’s browser.

Also, since it’s a bare-bones screen sharing add-on, you won’t be able to remotely control another PC using this app. You’ll need to talk over the phone while you’re remotely viewing the screen and talking the other user through troubleshooting steps.

The free version of Screenleap allows for up to 40 minutes of screen sharing every day, which is quite a bit for free software.

6. CrankWheel

CrankWheel is another Chrome add-on that lets you remotely share your display. One thing that sets CrankWheel apart is that it’s extremely lightweight. Setup takes seconds.

Also, it offers three main methods for sharing your screen.

• Share just a single browser tab
• Share a single program window
• Share your entire desktop screen

When you select any of these options, you’ll see a pop-up window that lets you select which tab or application you want to share to the remote user.

There are two ways to share the screen. You can either type in the other user’s phone number and send an SMS with the share link, or you can copy the share link and email it or IM it to the remote user yourself.

Once the other user enters the link into their browser, they’ll immediately see the screen that you’re sharing.

This is probably one of the fastest and easiest ways to share your screen and have users remotely connect to your PC – or remotely connect to anyone else’s PC.

The free version of CrankWheel allows 25 free remote screen sharing sessions per month, which should be more than enough for general troubleshooting help with family and friends.

Ryan has been writing how-to and other technology-based articles online since 2007. He has a BSc degree in Electrical Engineering and he’s worked 13 years in automation engineering, 5 years in IT, and now is an Apps Engineer. Read Ryan’s Full Bio