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RustDesk

Open-source remote desktop software you can run on your own relay server instead of a vendor's cloud.

Open sourceSelf-hostableRemote desktop software
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About RustDesk

RustDesk is an open-source remote desktop app written in Rust that works much like TeamViewer or AnyDesk: each device gets an ID, you connect with a password or an accepted prompt, and you can transfer files, chat and use unattended access. The difference is control. You can point clients at a free public relay to try it, but the project is designed for self-hosting: the open-source server runs on Docker, Linux, Windows or a Synology NAS, so session traffic stays on infrastructure you own. A paid Server Pro edition adds a web console, user accounts, access control, OIDC sign-in, address books and custom-branded clients, licensed by login users and managed devices. Note that this is self-hosting software, not a hosted service. The client is free under the AGPL and runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android. Expect a bit more setup and fewer polished admin tools than commercial rivals.

Best for: Admins and privacy-minded users who want TeamViewer-style access on their own server.

Pros and cons

What works

  • Free, open-source client and server
  • Traffic can stay entirely on your own relay
  • Familiar ID-and-password workflow
  • Affordable Pro server for teams

Why people leave

  • Self-hosting the server takes some setup and upkeep
  • Admin console and user management need the paid Pro server
  • No vendor-hosted SaaS option

Top RustDesk alternatives

See all 5
  1. 1MeshCentral logo
    MeshCentral

    Another free self-hosted option that adds device management through a web portal.

    66.5
  2. 2Apache Guacamole logo
    Apache Guacamole

    Self-hosted gateway for browser access to existing RDP, VNC and SSH servers.

    62.6
  3. 3AnyDesk logo
    AnyDesk

    Similar workflow with vendor-run infrastructure, if you'd rather not host anything.

    59.6
  4. 4TeamViewer logo
    TeamViewer

    Commercial support and a polished admin platform for larger organisations.

    57.2
  5. 5DWService logo
    DWService

    Free open-source agent with browser-based access and nothing to host yourself.

    55.3

Why people left RustDesk

In reviewers' own words, from reviews of the apps they moved to. These are their opinions, not ours.

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RustDesk: common questions

Is RustDesk free?

Yes. RustDesk is free, open-source software that you can host yourself.

Is RustDesk open source?

Yes. The source code is on GitHub at rustdesk/rustdesk. You can also run it on your own server.

What platforms does RustDesk run on?

RustDesk is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android and Self-hosted.

What are the best alternatives to RustDesk?

The highest-ranked RustDesk alternatives right now are MeshCentral, Apache Guacamole and AnyDesk. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.

See all 5 RustDesk alternatives