Last Updated on June 15, 2026
Being able to remotely control computers over the internet or network is an essential task for IT Professionals or even the family go to computer geek who get stuck fixing computer’s everyone they know. If you are a Windows user then you might be familiar with the Remote Desktop client that comes built into Windows but in order to use it over the internet, you will need a VPN connection. TeamViewer is another popular app used for remote connections, but you are limited as to how many computers you can connect to with the free account.
There is a free app you can use to remotely control computers over the internet and network called AnyViewer and its easy to use and will also allow you to perform file transfers between connected computers if you sign up for a free account. There is also a Pro and Enterprise version with additional features.
Connecting to a Remote Computer
1. Download and Install AnyViewer
Once you download and install the AnyViewer app, you can simply run it on your local machine. You will be shown the unique ID and password assigned specifically to your computer. This is used if you want someone to connect to your computer remotely and control it from their end. Of course, they will need to have the AnyViewer software installed on their end as well.
2. Enter the Remote Computer ID
If you plan on controlling another person’s computer remotely, you will need to have them give you the ID associated with their computer. Type this number into the partner ID box. You can then choose if you want to remotely control the computer or start a file transfer session. Click the Connect button to initiate the handshake.
3. Choose the Connection Method
Now you have two options as how you want to initiate the final connection. You can send a direct request to the person on the remote computer that they would have to manually accept. Or they can read the security code (caps sensitive) to you, and you can type it in on the next screen.
4. Accept the Incoming Connection
If you choose the first option, the person on the computer that is being controlled must be paying attention. They will need to click on the Allow button within 20 seconds to accept the connection. If they miss this narrow window, you will have to send the request again.
Working with the Remote Computer
1. Navigate the Remote Desktop Interface
Once the connection is made, you will then see their desktop in a brand new window. You will also have a floating toolbar at the top of the screen with several options. You can do things here such as change the screen resolution, start a chat or start a file transfer.
2. Access the Operation Menu
The Operation section has many choices such as sending Ctrl-Alt-Delete and locking the computer. You can also handle restarting or shutting down the computer entirely. This menu also allows opening critical tools such as Task Manager or a command prompt.
3. Utilize Pro Version Features
If you have the Pro version of the software, you unlock powerful administrative tools. You can also block the person on the remote computer from moving the mouse or using the keyboard. You can even black out their screen so they cannot see what you are doing.
4. Manage Toolbar Settings
Look at the right side of the toolbar. You have a mute button as well as a button to open the window in full screen mode. You can also minimize the toolbar completely to get it out of the way while you work.
5. Terminate the Remote Session
When you are finished with your remote control session, you can simply click on the X at the top right corner of the window. This terminates the network bridge and ends the remote session immediately.
6. Allow the Host to End the Session
If the user on the computer that is being controlled wants to end the session, they have the power to do so. They can click on the arrow at the right side of the screen to open the chat window. Then they must click on the red X to close the session. They can also do things such as disable mouse control and file sharing from the icons to the left of the red X.
If you would like to download AnyViewer to try out for yourself, you can click on the link here to be taken to their website.
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