Quick Start
This guide covers every AnyDesk feature:
- Getting Started — Create account and basic setup
- How to Use Mobile Device Support — Control any PC from your phone or tablet
- How to Use Access & Control — Connect to remote devices in seconds
- How to Use Administration & Customization — Manage users, roles, and custom clients
- How to Use Security & Privacy — Protect sessions with encryption and 2FA
- How to Use Collaboration — Chat, whiteboard, and record sessions
- How to Use Customizable Remote Access — Set up unattended access and custom aliases
- How to Use Remote Work Software — Work from anywhere with full desktop access
- How to Use Remote Access For Corporations — Deploy and manage across your entire organization
- How to Use Remote Access for Students — Access lab computers and collaborate remotely
Time needed: 5 minutes per feature
Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives
Why Trust This Guide
I’ve used AnyDesk for over two years and tested every feature covered here. This how to use anydesk tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.
AnyDesk is one of the most powerful remote desktop tools available today.
But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.
This guide shows you how to use every major feature.
Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.
AnyDesk Tutorial
This complete AnyDesk tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.
AnyDesk
Connect to any device instantly with lightning-fast remote desktop access. AnyDesk delivers low-latency connections and banking-grade encryption across every platform. Try it free for 14 days — no credit card required.
Getting Started with AnyDesk
Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.
It takes about 3 minutes.
Watch this quick overview first:
Now let’s walk through each step.
Step 1: Create Your Account
Go to AnyDesk’s website at anydesk.com.
Click “Download Now” for your operating system.
You can use AnyDesk as a portable app or install it fully.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the AnyDesk download start automatically.
Step 2: Download or Access the App
AnyDesk works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Run the downloaded file and follow on-screen instructions.
Log in with your AnyDesk account or use the client directly.
Here’s what the dashboard looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main dashboard with your 9-digit AnyDesk ID.
Step 3: Complete Initial Setup
Set a custom alias for easy access if you have a license.
Register your license by signing in or entering your License Key.
On Mac, grant Screen Recording and Accessibility permissions.
✅ Done: You’re ready to use any feature below.
How to Use AnyDesk Mobile Device Support
Mobile Device Support lets you control any PC from your phone or tablet.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Mobile Device Support in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Download the Mobile App
Open the Google Play Store or Apple App Store on your device.
Search for “AnyDesk” and tap Install.
Step 2: Enter the Remote Device ID
Type the remote computer’s 9-digit AnyDesk ID into the address field.
Tap the connect button to start the session.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see a connection request appear on the remote device.
Step 3: Control the Remote Desktop
Use touch gestures to move the cursor and tap to click.
Swipe with two fingers to scroll on the remote screen.
✅ Result: You now have full control of a PC from your mobile device.
💡 Pro Tip: Enable “Unattended Access” on the remote PC so you can connect anytime without someone accepting the request.
How to Use AnyDesk Access & Control
Access & Control lets you connect to any remote device and take full control.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Access & Control in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Get the Remote AnyDesk ID
Ask the remote user for their 9-digit AnyDesk ID or custom alias.
Each device shows a unique ID on the AnyDesk dashboard.
Step 2: Start the Connection
Enter the ID in the “Remote Address” field on your AnyDesk client.
Click Connect and wait for the remote user to accept.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the remote device’s screen appear in your window.
Step 3: Control the Remote Device
Move your mouse and type on your keyboard as if you were there.
Use the toolbar at the top to transfer files or adjust settings.
✅ Result: You have full remote control of another device from anywhere.
💡 Pro Tip: The DeskRT codec keeps frame rates up to 60fps even on slow connections. Lower image quality in settings if bandwidth is very limited.
How to Use AnyDesk Administration & Customization
Administration & Customization lets you manage users, roles, and deploy custom clients.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Administration & Customization in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open the my.anydesk Management Console
Go to my.anydesk.com and sign in with your admin credentials.
This cloud console controls all licensed devices and users.
Step 2: Set Up Users and Roles
Navigate to the Users section and click “Add User.”
Assign roles like Admin, Technician, or Standard to each team member.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see your team members listed with their assigned roles.
Step 3: Create Custom Clients
Go to the Custom Client section in the management console.
Pre-configure aliases, permissions, and default settings for deployment.
✅ Result: Your organization now has structured user management and branded clients.
💡 Pro Tip: Set up Single Sign-On (SSO) with your identity provider. It simplifies login for employees and strengthens security.
How to Use AnyDesk Security & Privacy
Security & Privacy lets you protect every remote session with encryption and access controls.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Security & Privacy in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Open AnyDesk Settings and go to the Security tab.
Toggle on Two-Factor Authentication and link your authenticator app.
Step 2: Configure Whitelisting
Go to Security settings and find the Access Control List section.
Add trusted device IDs to your whitelist to block unknown connections.
✓ Checkpoint: Only whitelisted devices can now request a connection to your machine.
Step 3: Set Permission Profiles
Create permission profiles to control what remote users can do.
Restrict actions like file copying, keyboard use, or clipboard access.
✅ Result: Your sessions are protected by encryption, 2FA, and granular permissions.
💡 Pro Tip: Enable Privacy Mode to black out the remote screen during support sessions. This prevents bystanders from seeing sensitive data.
How to Use AnyDesk Collaboration
Collaboration lets you chat, draw on a whiteboard, and record sessions with your team.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Collaboration in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Start a Text Chat
During a remote session, click the chat icon in the toolbar.
Type your message and press Enter to send it instantly.
Step 2: Use the Whiteboard
Click the pencil icon in the session toolbar to open the whiteboard.
Draw arrows, circles, or highlights directly on the shared screen.
✓ Checkpoint: Both you and the remote user should see the annotations live.
Step 3: Record the Session
Click the record button in the toolbar before or during the session.
Recordings save locally for training or documentation purposes.
✅ Result: You can now communicate, annotate, and record during any remote session.
💡 Pro Tip: Use session recordings to create training videos for your team. It saves hours of repeating the same walkthrough.
How to Use AnyDesk Customizable Remote Access
Customizable Remote Access lets you set up unattended access and custom connection aliases.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Customizable Remote Access in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Enable Unattended Access
Open AnyDesk on the remote device and go to Settings > Access.
Click “Set password” and create a strong password for unattended sessions.
Step 2: Connect Using the Unattended Password
From your local device, enter the remote ID and click Connect.
Enter the unattended access password when prompted.
✓ Checkpoint: You should connect without anyone accepting on the remote end.
Step 3: Set a Custom Alias
Go to Settings and find the Alias field.
Create a memorable name like “office-pc” instead of a 9-digit number.
✅ Result: You can now access any device anytime, even when nobody is present.
💡 Pro Tip: Use AnyDesk’s custom namespace to create brand-labeled addresses for faster support routing within your team.
How to Use AnyDesk Remote Work Software
Remote Work Software lets you access your office desktop from home with full functionality.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Remote Work Software in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Install AnyDesk on Both Devices
Install AnyDesk on your office computer and your home device.
Enable unattended access on the office machine before leaving.
Step 2: Connect from Home
Open AnyDesk at home and enter your office computer’s ID or alias.
Enter the unattended access password to start the session.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see your office desktop exactly as you left it.
Step 3: Transfer Files Between Devices
Open the file manager from the session toolbar.
Drag and drop files between your home and office computers.
✅ Result: You can work from home with full access to your office PC and files.
💡 Pro Tip: Sync clipboards between your local and remote machine. Copy text on one device and paste it on the other instantly.
How to Use AnyDesk Remote Access For Corporations
Remote Access For Corporations lets you deploy and manage AnyDesk across your entire organization.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Remote Access For Corporations in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Create a Custom Deployment Package
Log into my.anydesk.com and go to the Custom Client Builder.
Pre-configure permissions, aliases, and default settings for your team.
Step 2: Deploy via Group Policy or MSI
Download the MSI installer from the management console.
Push the installer across devices using Group Policy or your MDM tool.
✓ Checkpoint: AnyDesk should appear on all targeted devices in your network.
Step 3: Manage Devices from the Console
Use the my.anydesk dashboard to monitor all connected devices.
Assign roles, manage licenses, and track active sessions centrally.
✅ Result: AnyDesk is deployed and managed across your entire organization from one console.
💡 Pro Tip: Use the REST-API to automate billing and retrieve device data from AnyDesk directly into your existing systems.
How to Use AnyDesk Remote Access for Students
Remote Access for Students lets you access lab computers and collaborate on projects from anywhere.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Watch Remote Access for Students in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Install AnyDesk on Your Personal Device
Download AnyDesk for free from anydesk.com on your laptop or phone.
The free version works for personal, non-commercial use.
Step 2: Connect to Your Campus Computer
Get the AnyDesk ID from the lab computer you want to access.
Enter it in your AnyDesk app and connect remotely.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the campus computer’s desktop on your screen.
Step 3: Collaborate with Classmates
Share your AnyDesk ID with a classmate for screen sharing.
Use the whiteboard and chat features to work on projects together.
✅ Result: You can access campus resources and collaborate with peers from your dorm or home.
💡 Pro Tip: AnyDesk works well even on slow campus Wi-Fi thanks to its DeskRT codec. Lower the display quality if your connection is unstable.
AnyDesk Pro Tips and Shortcuts
After testing AnyDesk for over two years, here are my best tips.
Keyboard Shortcuts
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Toggle Fullscreen | Ctrl + Alt + Shift + F |
| Send Ctrl+Alt+Del to Remote | Ctrl + Alt + Del (via toolbar) |
| Switch Between Sessions | Click session tabs in the toolbar |
| Open File Transfer | Click folder icon in toolbar |
Hidden Features Most People Miss
- Remote Printing: Print documents from a remote device to your local printer. Enable it in Settings under the Print tab.
- Address Book: Save frequently accessed devices in your Address Book for one-click connections.
- Wake-on-LAN: Power on sleeping remote computers before connecting. Set this up in your device’s BIOS and AnyDesk settings.
AnyDesk Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Sharing Your AnyDesk ID with Strangers
❌ Wrong: Giving your AnyDesk ID to someone you don’t know who calls claiming to be “tech support.”
✅ Right: Only share your ID with people you trust. Enable whitelisting to block unknown devices.
Mistake #2: Skipping Unattended Access Setup
❌ Wrong: Always needing someone at the remote PC to accept your connection request.
✅ Right: Set up unattended access with a strong password so you can connect anytime.
Mistake #3: Not Granting Mac Permissions
❌ Wrong: Wondering why screen sharing doesn’t work on Mac without checking system permissions.
✅ Right: Grant Screen Recording and Accessibility permissions in Mac System Settings before using AnyDesk.
AnyDesk Troubleshooting
Problem: Connection Keeps Dropping
Cause: Unstable internet connection or firewall blocking AnyDesk traffic.
Fix: Check your internet speed. Allow AnyDesk through your firewall. Switch to a wired connection if possible.
Problem: Remote Screen Appears Black
Cause: Privacy Mode is enabled on the remote device, or display drivers are outdated.
Fix: Ask the remote user to disable Privacy Mode. Update display drivers on the remote PC.
Problem: “Session Limit Reached” Error
Cause: Free version detects commercial use or you’ve exceeded your license session limit.
Fix: Upgrade to a paid plan if using AnyDesk for work. Close unused sessions to free up slots.
📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact AnyDesk support.
What is AnyDesk?
AnyDesk is a remote desktop tool that lets you access and control any computer from anywhere in the world.
Think of it like having a virtual cable that connects your screen to another computer miles away.
Watch this quick overview:
It includes these key features:
- Mobile Device Support: Control PCs from your phone or tablet on iOS and Android.
- Access & Control: Connect to remote devices with a 9-digit ID and take full control.
- Administration & Customization: Manage users, roles, and deploy custom clients across teams.
- Security & Privacy: TLS 1.2 encryption, AES-256, 2FA, and whitelisting for safe sessions.
- Collaboration: Whiteboard drawing, text chat, and session recording during remote sessions.
- Customizable Remote Access: Unattended access, custom aliases, and pre-configured clients.
- Remote Work Software: Full desktop access from home with file transfer and clipboard sync.
- Remote Access For Corporations: Mass deployment via MSI, Group Policy, and central management.
- Remote Access for Students: Access campus lab computers and collaborate with classmates.
For a full review, see our AnyDesk review.
AnyDesk Pricing
Here’s what AnyDesk costs in 2026:
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $32.31/month | Small teams needing basic remote support |
| Advanced | $70.11/month | Growing businesses with mass deployment needs |
| Ultimate | Custom | Enterprises requiring full management and custom features |
Free trial: Yes — 14-day free trial for professional use. Free version available for personal use.
Money-back guarantee: Contact AnyDesk support for refund policies on annual subscriptions.
💰 Best Value: Standard plan — it covers most team needs with session recording and custom aliases at a reasonable price.
AnyDesk vs Alternatives
How does AnyDesk compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:
| Tool | Best For | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| AnyDesk | Speed and low latency | $32.31/mo | ⭐ 4.3 |
| Getscreen | Simple browser-based access | $4.17/mo | ⭐ 3.9 |
| TeamViewer | Enterprise integrations | $18.90/mo | ⭐ 4.4 |
| Splashtop | Budget-friendly for teams | $8.25/mo | ⭐ 4.3 |
| RemotePC | Affordable always-on access | $22.12/yr | ⭐ 4.0 |
| RealVNC Connect | Security-focused access | $16.50/mo | ⭐ 4.5 |
| GoTo Resolve | IT help desk and RMM | $23/mo | ⭐ 4.0 |
| ISL Online | European compliance needs | $16.90/mo | ⭐ 4.0 |
| BeyondTrust | Enterprise privileged access | Custom | ⭐ 4.4 |
Quick picks:
- Best overall: AnyDesk — fastest connections with the DeskRT codec and cross-platform support.
- Best budget: Getscreen — starts at just $4.17/month with browser-based access.
- Best for beginners: Splashtop — easy setup with clear pricing and strong mobile support.
- Best for IT teams: GoTo Resolve — built-in help desk, ticketing, and remote monitoring tools.
Looking for AnyDesk alternatives? Here are the top options:
- 🚀 Getscreen: Browser-based remote access with no installation needed. Great for quick support sessions at a fraction of the cost.
- 💰 TeamViewer: Industry leader with broad enterprise integrations, augmented reality support, and a massive user base worldwide.
- 🎨 Splashtop: Budget-friendly remote access with high-definition streaming. Saves teams up to 40% compared to AnyDesk plans.
- ⚡ RemotePC: Always-on remote access with one of the lowest annual prices. Perfect for individuals and small teams.
- 🔒 RealVNC Connect: Security-first remote access with HIPAA compliance and ISO 27001 certification. Built by the inventors of VNC.
- 🧠 GoTo Resolve: All-in-one IT management platform with helpdesk ticketing, remote monitoring, and zero trust architecture.
- 👶 ISL Online: European-built remote support tool with strong data privacy standards and on-premise hosting options.
- 🏢 BeyondTrust: Enterprise-grade privileged remote access with advanced audit trails and compliance features for large organizations.
For the full list, see our AnyDesk alternatives guide.
⚔️ AnyDesk Compared
Here’s how AnyDesk stacks up against each competitor:
- AnyDesk vs Getscreen: AnyDesk wins on speed and features. Getscreen wins on price and zero-install browser access for quick sessions.
- AnyDesk vs TeamViewer: AnyDesk is faster and cheaper. TeamViewer offers more enterprise integrations and augmented reality support.
- AnyDesk vs Splashtop: AnyDesk has lower latency. Splashtop costs less and includes more features in base plans.
- AnyDesk vs RemotePC: AnyDesk is faster for real-time control. RemotePC is far cheaper for always-on access at $22/year.
- AnyDesk vs RealVNC Connect: AnyDesk is easier to set up. RealVNC wins on security certifications including HIPAA and ISO 27001.
- AnyDesk vs GoTo Resolve: AnyDesk is purely remote desktop. GoTo Resolve adds IT management, ticketing, and device monitoring.
- AnyDesk vs ISL Online: AnyDesk has more platform support. ISL Online offers on-premise hosting for strict data privacy needs.
- AnyDesk vs BeyondTrust: AnyDesk is simpler and cheaper. BeyondTrust is built for enterprises needing privileged access management.
Start Using AnyDesk Now
You learned how to use every major AnyDesk feature:
- ✅ Mobile Device Support
- ✅ Access & Control
- ✅ Administration & Customization
- ✅ Security & Privacy
- ✅ Collaboration
- ✅ Customizable Remote Access
- ✅ Remote Work Software
- ✅ Remote Access For Corporations
- ✅ Remote Access for Students
Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.
Most people start with Access & Control.
It takes less than 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AnyDesk safe to use?
Yes, AnyDesk is safe. It uses TLS 1.2 and AES-256 encryption for all connections. You can also enable two-factor authentication and whitelist trusted devices. Just never share your ID with strangers claiming to be tech support.
What is AnyDesk used for?
AnyDesk is used for remote desktop access, IT support, file transfer, and team collaboration. It lets you control another computer from anywhere. Businesses use it for remote support, while individuals use it to access their home or office PC remotely.
Can anyone access my PC using AnyDesk?
No one can access your PC without your permission. For attended access, you must accept a pop-up request. For unattended access, the person needs your password. You can also whitelist specific devices and block all others for added safety.
Is AnyDesk remote desktop free?
AnyDesk offers a free version for personal, non-commercial use. It includes basic remote access and file transfer. For business use, you need a paid license. The Standard plan starts at $32.31/month. There’s also a 14-day free trial for professional features.
How much does AnyDesk cost?
AnyDesk has three paid plans. Standard costs $32.31/month, Advanced costs $70.11/month, and Ultimate has custom pricing. All plans are billed annually. The free version covers personal use, and a 14-day trial is available for business users.
Is AnyDesk cheaper than TeamViewer?
Yes, AnyDesk is generally cheaper than TeamViewer. AnyDesk Standard starts at $32.31/month, while TeamViewer Business costs $42.90/month. AnyDesk also performs better on low-bandwidth connections, making it a strong value pick for most teams.
What are the limitations of AnyDesk free license?
The free version limits session duration and does not allow unattended access. It’s restricted to personal, non-commercial use only. AnyDesk actively monitors usage and may block free users if it detects business activity. Paid plans remove all these limits.
Is AnyDesk a legitimate site?
Yes, AnyDesk is a legitimate company founded in Stuttgart, Germany in 2014. It has been downloaded over 800 million times and is used in 190 countries. Always download from the official anydesk.com website to avoid fake or malicious versions.
What are the disadvantages of AnyDesk?
AnyDesk’s main drawbacks include occasional connection drops, a limited free version, and higher-tier features locked behind expensive plans. Phone support isn’t available on lower plans. Some Mac features require extra permission setup that can confuse new users.
Is AnyDesk a Russian company?
No. AnyDesk is a German company. It was founded in 2014 in Stuttgart, Germany by AnyDesk Software GmbH. The company’s headquarters remain in Germany. It is not affiliated with any Russian entity.
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