Tools

Remote access picker

Six questions, one ranked shortlist. It is a rule of thumb that shows its working, so you can disagree with it for the right reasons.

What do you need to reach?
Who will connect?
Can you install software on the devices that connect?
Can the server side accept inbound connections?
Is relying on a third-party service acceptable?
Do you want people to sign in with an identity, such as Google, Microsoft or an emailed code?

How the ranking works

Each answer adds or subtracts points from each method, and every point comes with a stated reason. Nothing here is hidden weighting: the reasons you see are the whole calculation. If a method you like ranks low, read its trade-offs. Often a single answer, such as not being able to install a client, explains it.

For the detail behind each method, see the comparison and how to choose a remote access method.