Is Splashtop Streamer used to spy?

No. Splashtop Streamer only enables connections you authorize. It does not run hidden monitoring, and the host machine shows a connection indicator during sessions.

Does Splashtop record your screen?

Only if session recording is turned on by an administrator. Recording is off by default on standard remote access plans.

Can Splashtop be used for remote access?

Yes. Remote access is its main purpose. Install the Streamer on the host computer and connect from any supported client device.

Can I remote access my PC from another PC?

Yes. Install Splashtop Streamer on the PC you want to reach, install the client on the second PC, then sign in with the same account.

Can I uninstall Splashtop?

Yes. Remove it through Windows Settings or by dragging the app to Trash on Mac, then delete the device from your Splashtop console.

Is Splashtop the same as TeamViewer?

No. They are separate companies and separate products. Both provide remote desktop software, but pricing, performance, and management features differ.

Is Splashtop as good as TeamViewer?

For streaming quality and price, many users rate Splashtop higher. TeamViewer still leads on third-party integrations and legacy device support.

Does Splashtop monitor activity?

It logs session history, file transfers, and connection times for auditing. It does not track what you do outside an active session.

What is Splashtop software used for?

Reaching computers remotely, running IT support sessions, transferring files, managing endpoints, and patching software across a fleet of devices.

Is Splashtop Streamer used to spy on employees?

No. Streamer enables authorized remote access only. Employers must disclose monitoring separately under their own policies and local law.

Can I delete Splashtop?

Yes. Uninstall the Streamer and client apps, then remove the computer from your account so the seat is freed.

What does Splashtop Inc. do?

Splashtop builds remote access and remote support software for individuals, businesses, schools, and managed service providers worldwide.

What is the Splashtop streamer on my computer?

Streamer is the small host agent that lets an authorized account connect to that machine. Someone installed it deliberately for remote access.

Is Splashtop Streamer legit?

Yes. It is signed software from Splashtop Inc. If you did not install it yourself, ask your IT team before removing it.

Which is better, TeamViewer or Splashtop?

Splashtop wins on price and video smoothness. TeamViewer wins on integrations and device breadth. Your answer depends on budget and tooling.

What is the best remote desktop control software?

There is no single winner. Splashtop suits most teams, AnyDesk suits weak connections, and BeyondTrust suits regulated enterprises.

Is Splashtop reputable?

Yes. Splashtop is an established vendor used by schools, hospitals, and managed service providers, with published security and compliance documentation.

Is it safe to use Splashtop?

Yes, when you use strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Encryption and device authentication protect the session itself.

Is Splashtop free or paid?

Mostly paid. A free trial is available, and limited personal use exists, but business remote access requires a paid plan.

What is the free remote desktop software for personal use?

Chrome Remote Desktop and Windows Remote Desktop are free options. Splashtop's paid plans add speed, file transfer, and support features.

What's the difference between Splashtop versions?

Solo covers one user's own computers. Pro adds users and devices. Access Performance adds higher frame rates. Enterprise adds management and single sign-on.

How to Use Splashtop: The Complete Guide of Remote Access in 2026

by Fahim Joharder | Last updated Aug 13, 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every Splashtop feature:

Getting Started — Install the Streamer and connect your first computer
How to Use Autonomous Endpoint Management — Runs updates, alerts, and health checks across your fleet automatically.
How to Use Splashtop Remote Support — Attended and unattended support sessions for helpdesk teams.
How to Use Access Management — Group-based permissions, scheduled access, and two-factor rules.
How to Use Multi-Monitor Support — View, span, or switch between all connected remote displays.
How to Use Custom Branding — White-label the support app, emails, and connection prompts.
How to Use Real-Time Vulnerability & Patch Management — CVE-based scanning with one-click remediation across the fleet.
How to Use Extended Management Portal — A single console for device inventory, actions, and audit logs.
How to Use HaloITSM Integration — Two-way sync between Splashtop sessions and HaloITSM tickets.
How to Use SOS App Customization — Custom text, fields, and consent prompts on the SOS download.
How to Use Reliable System Configuration — Configuration baselines that keep devices consistent.

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives

Why Trust This Guide

I have run Splashtop daily for two years across Windows, Mac, and an iPad.

Every step here comes from real sessions, not a vendor brochure.

How to use Splashtop remote desktop software

Splashtop is remote desktop software that connects you to a computer from anywhere.

Most people learn one thing — connect and control — then stop there.

This guide shows you how to use Splashtop feature by feature.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

Splashtop Tutorial

This How to Use Splashtop tutorial walks through every feature, from first install to fleet-wide patching.

Splashtop

Reach any computer from anywhere with high-quality audio and video streaming. Splashtop works across Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, with file transfer and remote support built in. Start free — no credit card required.

TRY SPLASHTOP NOW →

READ FULL REVIEW →

SPLASHTOP ALTERNATIVES →

Getting Started with Splashtop

Splashtop requires installation on both the host and client devices.

That one-time setup takes about three minutes.

Here is what my own setup looked like:

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to the Splashtop website and click Start Free Trial.

Enter your email and set a password.

✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for the confirmation email.

Step 2: Install the Streamer on the Host

Download Splashtop Streamer onto the computer you want to reach.

Here’s what the console looks like once a device reports in:

✓ Checkpoint: Your computer shows a green online dot in the device list.

Step 3: Connect From Your Client Device

Install the Splashtop Business app on your laptop, phone, or tablet.

Splashtop supports multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

Tap the device name to open a remote access session.

✅ Done: You can now access your computers remotely from anywhere.

Try splashtop for free

How to Use Splashtop Autonomous Endpoint Manager

Autonomous Endpoint Management lets you patch, monitor, and fix every managed device without touching it.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open the Endpoint Management Tab

Every computer with the Streamer installed appears in the device list.

Step 2: Create a Policy

Click New Policy and pick the devices you want it to cover.

Set update windows, alert thresholds, and reboot rules.

Here’s what this looks like:

Splashtop Autonomous Endpoint Management Image

✓ Checkpoint: Your policy shows a green Applied status on each device.

Step 3: Review the Alerts Feed

Check the alerts feed each morning for failed jobs.

Filter by device group so you only see what matters.

✅ Result: Your endpoints now patch and report on their own.

💡 Pro Tip: Stagger reboot windows by department so nobody loses work mid-shift.

Try splashtop for free

How to Use Splashtop Splashtop Remote Support

Splashtop Remote Support lets you jump onto a user’s screen and fix the problem while they watch.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Send the Session Code

Open the SOS tab and read the nine-digit code to your user.

They enter it in the small app they downloaded from your link.

Step 2: Connect and Take Control

Click Connect once the session appears in your queue.

You now see their desktop in real time.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The user’s desktop loads inside your session window.

Step 3: Close Out the Session

Leave a session note before you disconnect.

Notes stay attached to the device record for the next technician.

✅ Result: You fixed the issue without a site visit or a long email chain.

💡 Pro Tip: Ask the user to stay on the call so you can explain each fix as you make it.

Try splashtop for free

How to Use Splashtop Access Manager

Access Management lets you decide exactly who can reach which computers and when.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Build Your Device Groups

Open Management and create a group per team or client.

Drag computers into the right group.

Step 2: Assign Group Permissions

Give each user or technician access to the groups they need.

Nobody sees a machine outside their assignment.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: A test user only sees the computers inside their assigned group.

Step 3: Turn On Scheduled Access

Set start and end times for contractors or temporary staff.

Access expires without anyone remembering to revoke it.

✅ Result: Access now matches your org chart instead of a shared password list.

💡 Pro Tip: Require two-factor authentication for every admin before you add outside contractors.

Try splashtop for free

How to Use Splashtop Multi-Monitor Support

Multi-Monitor Support lets you see every remote screen at once instead of flipping between them.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Start a Session on a Multi-Screen PC

Connect to a computer that has two or more displays.

The toolbar shows a monitor icon with the screen count.

Step 2: Pick Your Viewing Mode

Choose single screen, multi-window, or one merged view.

Multi-window works best on a matching local setup.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Both remote displays render without cropping or black bars.

Step 3: Save the Layout

Splashtop remembers the mode you used for that device.

Your next session opens the same way.

✅ Result: You can drag files between remote screens exactly as you would locally.

💡 Pro Tip: Drop to one screen on a slow link — fewer pixels means a sharper picture.

Try splashtop for free

How to Use Splashtop Custom Branding

Custom Branding lets you put your own logo and colors on the app your clients download.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open Branding Settings

Go to Settings and find the branding panel.

Admin rights are required to edit it.

Step 2: Upload Your Assets

Add a square logo and pick your brand color.

Keep the logo under one megabyte for fast loading.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Your logo appears in the download page preview.

Step 3: Publish the Branded App

Save, then share the new download link with clients.

The old link keeps working during the switch.

✅ Result: Clients now see your brand, not a stranger’s, when support starts.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a transparent PNG so the logo sits cleanly on both light and dark backgrounds.

Try splashtop for free

How to Use Splashtop Real-Time Vulnerability & Patch Manager

Real-Time Vulnerability & Patch Management lets you find unpatched software and close the gap before someone finds it first.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Run a Vulnerability Scan

Open the security tab and start a scan on a device group.

Results list each finding with a severity score.

Step 2: Sort by Severity

Handle critical items first, then work down the list.

Each entry links to the CVE detail.

Here’s what this looks like:

Splashtop Real-Time Vulnerability & Patch Management Image

✓ Checkpoint: The scan count drops after the patch job completes.

Step 3: Push the Patch

Select the affected devices and click remediate.

Confirm the version number after the job finishes.

✅ Result: Known holes are closed and you have a record showing when.

💡 Pro Tip: Rescan the same group an hour later — some patches only register after a restart.

Try splashtop for free

How to Use Splashtop Extended Management Portal

Extended Management Portal lets you run inventory, scripts, and reports from one browser tab.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open the Portal

You can skip navigation menus by using the search bar at the top.

Step 2: Check Device Inventory

Review the hardware, OS build, and installed software per machine.

Export the list to CSV for your asset register.

Here’s what this looks like:

Splashtop Extended Management Portal Image

✓ Checkpoint: Your inventory export downloads with one row per device.

Step 3: Schedule a Report

Set a weekly report and send it to your inbox.

Reports cover session history and patch status.

✅ Result: You have a current asset picture without walking the office.

💡 Pro Tip: Name devices by user and location so search returns the right machine instantly.

Try splashtop for free

How to Use Splashtop HaloITSM Integration

HaloITSM Integration lets you launch a support session straight from the ticket you are reading.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Generate an API Key

Create a key in Splashtop and copy it once.

Store it in your password manager immediately.

Step 2: Paste It Into HaloITSM

Open the integrations page in Halo and add Splashtop.

Paste the key and test the connection.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: The test connection returns a success message in Halo.

Step 3: Start a Session From a Ticket

Open any ticket and click the Splashtop button.

Session notes post back to the ticket automatically.

✅ Result: Every remote session is logged against the right ticket.

💡 Pro Tip: Map your Halo device names to Splashtop names first or the lookup will miss.

Try splashtop for free

How to Use Splashtop SOS App Customizer

SOS App Customization lets you shape the small app your users run before an attended session.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Edit the SOS Template

Open the SOS settings and edit the welcome text.

Keep it under two short lines.

Step 2: Add a Custom Field

Ask for a ticket number or department on launch.

The value shows next to the session in your queue.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Your custom field appears in the session queue during a test run.

Step 3: Test the Download

Run the link on a spare machine before you send it out.

Check the wording on both Windows and Mac.

✅ Result: Sessions arrive pre-labeled, so routing takes seconds.

💡 Pro Tip: Add a plain-language consent line — it saves arguments about what you accessed.

Try splashtop for free

How to Use Splashtop Reliable System Configuration

Reliable System Configuration lets you apply the same settings to every machine instead of one at a time.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Build a Baseline

Configure one machine the way you want them all.

Save it as a configuration template.

Step 2: Apply It to a Group

Push the template to a device group.

Devices that are offline pick it up when they reconnect.

Here’s what this looks like:

Splashtop Reliable System Configuration Image

✓ Checkpoint: Every device in the group reports a matching configuration state.

Step 3: Watch for Drift

The console flags machines that fall out of line.

Reapply the baseline in one click.

✅ Result: New machines join your standard without manual setup.

💡 Pro Tip: Test a new baseline on two spare devices before you push it to a hundred.

Try splashtop for free

Splashtop Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After two years of daily sessions, these are the tips I actually use.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Action	Shortcut
Toggle full screen	Ctrl + Shift + Enter
Switch remote monitor	Ctrl + Shift + Right Arrow
Send Ctrl + Alt + Delete	Ctrl + Alt + Insert
Disconnect session	Ctrl + Shift + Q

Hidden Features Most People Miss

File transfer both ways: Drag files straight into the session window instead of emailing them to yourself.
Session notes: Type a note before you disconnect and it stays on the device record.
Wake on LAN: Power on a sleeping office PC from the console if the network supports it.

Try splashtop for free

Splashtop Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Installing the Streamer on the Wrong Machine

❌ Wrong: Putting Streamer on your laptop and expecting to reach the office desktop.

✅ Right: Streamer goes on the host you want to reach. The client app goes on the device in your hands.

Mistake #2: Letting the Host Computer Sleep

❌ Wrong: Closing the lid and walking away, then wondering why the device shows offline.

✅ Right: Set the host power plan to never sleep, or turn on Wake on LAN before you leave.

Mistake #3: Sharing One Login Across the Team

❌ Wrong: Passing a single account around so everyone can connect.

✅ Right: Add each technician as a user and assign device groups. Your audit log then means something.

Try splashtop for free

Splashtop Troubleshooting

Problem: The Session Will Not Connect

Cause: Splashtop may encounter connection issues due to firewall settings.

Fix: Allow the Streamer through the firewall and open outbound port 443. Then retry the connection.

Problem: The Screen Lags or Stutters

Cause: Users should check their internet connection if they experience performance issues with Splashtop.

Fix: Run a speed test, switch to a wired link, and drop the session quality one level.

Problem: A Feature Is Missing From the Menu

Cause: The host and client are running different builds.

Fix: Updating Splashtop to the latest version can resolve many common issues. Update both ends, then reconnect.

📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact Splashtop support.

Try splashtop for free

What is Splashtop?

Splashtop is remote access software for individuals and businesses.

Think of it like a long cable running from your screen to a computer somewhere else.

Watch this quick overview:

Splashtop Review | Best Remote Access & Support Software?

Want to watch full video content elsewhere? Use copy link to save it, add it to watch later, or open show transcript and follow along using the transcript.

On mobile you can also search with your voice, and show less collapses a long description.

Judge tutorials by age, not popularity — a clip with 24k views from 1 month ago often beats one with 2.2m views from 5 years ago.

Uploads from hours ago, weeks ago, or months ago match the current interface. A walkthrough from 4 years ago or 3 years ago will not.

The 17k views walkthrough from Structured Progress LLC posted 10 months ago is a solid starting point, and a clip from 1 year ago still holds up.

If a page fails to load, please try again later.

It includes these key features:

Autonomous Endpoint Management: Runs updates, alerts, and health checks across your fleet automatically.
Splashtop Remote Support: Attended and unattended support sessions for helpdesk teams.
Access Management: Group-based permissions, scheduled access, and two-factor rules.
Multi-Monitor Support: View, span, or switch between all connected remote displays.
Custom Branding: White-label the support app, emails, and connection prompts.
Real-Time Vulnerability & Patch Management: CVE-based scanning with one-click remediation across the fleet.
Extended Management Portal: A single console for device inventory, actions, and audit logs.
HaloITSM Integration: Two-way sync between Splashtop sessions and HaloITSM tickets.
SOS App Customization: Custom text, fields, and consent prompts on the SOS download.
Reliable System Configuration: Configuration baselines that keep devices consistent.

For a full review, see our Splashtop review.

Try splashtop for free

Splashtop Pricing

Here’s what Splashtop costs in 2026:

Plan	Price	Best For
Remote Access Solo	$5/year	One person accessing their own computers
Remote Access Pro	$8.25/person per year	Small teams sharing machines
Access Performance	$13/person per year	Designers and editors needing high frame rates
Splashtop Enterprise	Custom	Large IT departments and managed service providers

Free trial: Yes — 7 days on business plans, no credit card required.

Money-back guarantee: Yes — 30 days on annual subscriptions.

💰 Best Value: Remote Access Pro at $8.25/person per year — it adds users and shared devices for a few dollars more than Solo.

Try splashtop for free

Splashtop vs Alternatives

How does Splashtop compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Tool	Best For	Price	Rating
Splashtop	Fast, affordable remote access	$5/year	⭐ 4.3
Getscreen	Browser-only access	$4.17/month	⭐ 3.9
TeamViewer	Broad device support	$18.90/month	⭐ 4.4
AnyDesk	Low-latency sessions	$32.31/month	⭐ 4.3
RemotePC	Budget yearly plans	$22.12/year	⭐ 4.0
RealVNC Connect	Cross-platform control	$4.99/month	⭐ 4.2
GoTo Resolve	All-in-one IT desk	$57/month	⭐ 4.1
ISL Online	Self-hosted option	$16.90/month	⭐ 4.0
BeyondTrust	Privileged access	Custom	⭐ 4.4

Quick picks:

Best overall: Splashtop — strong performance at the lowest per-seat cost
Best budget: Getscreen — browser-based access from $4.17/month
Best for beginners: RemotePC — simple setup and flat yearly billing
Best for enterprise IT: BeyondTrust — deep auditing and privileged access controls

🎯 Splashtop Alternatives

Looking for Splashtop alternatives? Here are the top options:

🚀 Getscreen: Runs entirely in the browser with no client install, which suits quick one-off help sessions.
⭐ TeamViewer: The best-known name in remote desktop software, with wide device and platform coverage.
⚡ AnyDesk: Light client and fast frame rates on weak connections, popular with solo technicians.
💰 RemotePC: Flat yearly pricing with generous computer counts, aimed at small teams watching costs.
🔧 RealVNC Connect: Mature VNC technology with strong Linux and Raspberry Pi support for developers.
🏢 GoTo Resolve: Bundles remote support with ticketing and device management for mid-sized IT teams.
🔒 ISL Online: Can run on your own server, which helps in regulated industries with strict data rules.
💼 BeyondTrust: Enterprise-grade privileged remote access with heavy auditing and compliance controls.

For the full list, see our Splashtop alternatives guide.

⚔️ Splashtop Compared

Here’s how Splashtop stacks up against each competitor:

Splashtop vs Getscreen: Getscreen is cheaper and simpler, but Splashtop wins on endpoint management and multi-monitor work.
Splashtop vs TeamViewer: TeamViewer has more integrations. Splashtop costs far less for the same day-to-day remote access.
Splashtop vs AnyDesk: AnyDesk feels snappy on poor links. Splashtop offers deeper management and cheaper team seats.
Splashtop vs RemotePC: RemotePC is cheap for many machines. Splashtop gives better performance and real IT tooling.
Splashtop vs RealVNC Connect: RealVNC suits mixed hardware. Splashtop is faster for graphics-heavy work and video playback.
Splashtop vs GoTo Resolve: GoTo Resolve packs more modules. Splashtop is leaner, cheaper, and quicker to set up.
Splashtop vs ISL Online: ISL Online allows on-premise hosting. Splashtop is easier to deploy and better priced per seat.
Splashtop vs BeyondTrust: BeyondTrust fits regulated enterprises. Splashtop serves everyone else at a fraction of the cost.

Try splashtop for free

Start Using Splashtop Now

You learned how to use every major Splashtop feature:

✅ Autonomous Endpoint Management
✅ Splashtop Remote Support
✅ Access Management
✅ Multi-Monitor Support
✅ Custom Branding
✅ Real-Time Vulnerability & Patch Management
✅ Extended Management Portal
✅ HaloITSM Integration
✅ SOS App Customization
✅ Reliable System Configuration

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with Splashtop Remote Support.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Try splashtop for free

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Splashtop used for?

Splashtop is remote desktop software used to reach a computer from anywhere. People use it for remote access to work machines, IT support, file transfer, and helping family members.

Is Splashtop completely free?

No. Splashtop offers a free trial and a limited personal tier, but paid plans start at Remote Access Solo for $5/year according to current listed pricing.

Is Splashtop better than TeamViewer?

Splashtop usually costs less and streams video more smoothly. TeamViewer has more integrations. For everyday remote access, most users find Splashtop the better value.

Is Splashtop safe to use?

Yes. Sessions use TLS encryption, device authentication, and optional two-factor login. Risk comes from sharing credentials, not from the software itself.

How does Splashtop pricing work?

Plans are billed per person per year. Remote Access Solo is $5/year, Remote Access Pro is $8.25/person per year, and Access Performance is $13/person per year.