Hello,

I stopped using TeamViewer a very long time ago. Since then, I’ve been using DWService and I’m quite happy with it. I like the fact that I can access to the terminal without launching any graphical component on the machine (which is handy for my headless servers, and allows me not to open SSH port). I also like the fact that it works even if my VPN server is down, as I can access remote servers that aren’t accessible via the web when they’re no longer reachable through my VPN.

However, there are a few issues that are bothering me more and more. I’ve switched my mum’s computer to Fedora and, whilst it worked perfectly under Windows, remote control is very buggy under fedora because the connection isn’t great. Furthermore, it’s impossible to access the screen if the computer isn’t unlocked.

So, I’d really like to find a solution that meets my criteria:

  • Accessible via a web browser
  • Ideally open-source
  • Free
  • Ideally self-hostable, but I’m worried that if, for example, my reverse proxy or VPN crashes, I won’t be able to access my machines to debug them?
  • Allows access to servers without a monitor
  • Allows access to computers running Fedora without the need for prior unlocking

Thanks!

  • NutinButNet@hilariouschaos.comEnglish
    3·
    17 hours ago

    Two tools I have been using to replace TeamViewer that check some of your boxes, but not all are:

    • Tailscale
    • RustDesk

    Both free and widely used in the community for many of the purposes you’re looking for.

    Both operate slightly different from each other. But to give you insight into how I use them:

    I use Tailscale as a VPN into my house for stuff like Jellyfin remote viewing on my iPhone or laptop when not at home, SSH/RDP/SMB remote access into my home network and between my devices. I replaced my Docker VPN that was becoming tedious to manage with this and it’s been a lot better and easier to manage.

    I use RustDesk for my family and friends who want my help like out of state relatives. It works just like TeamViewer but without the greed or stupid nags or limitations to force you to pay. It just works.

    There’s some others like RustDesk others may recommend too. There’s a few others out there I’ve tried, but RustDesk has been great for me.

    Haven’t used TeamViewer in over 5 years because of these and other similar services.