Tailscale and RustDesk: Secure remote access to all your desktops
Learn how to combine RustDesk and Tailscale for secure remote desktop access without port forwarding, self-hosted RustDesk servers, or subscriptions.
Microsoft's official remote desktop tool, Windows Remote Desktop, is not the most intuitive choice for remote access. Mac users must enable remote access through the Sharing settings, while Linux users can choose from various tools. Some remote desktop applications offer decent mobile clients, but this isn't the case for all. Free and open-source options like TightVNC and Remote Ripple exist, though free VNC tools may require configuring connections.
Paid services like AnyDesk and TeamViewer automate hole-punching and data safety, but a better alternative is a combination of Tailscale and RustDesk.
RustDesk is an open-source remote access tool that works on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, and can be used through a browser. It uses modern streaming codecs for snappy performance, keeps data on users' own devices, and is free for non-commercial use. RustDesk offers features such as file transfers, remote restarting, camera viewing, text chats, voice calls, screenshots, and recording. However, more people may shy away from RustDesk due to the name recognition of established players and the need for self-hosting.
Tailscale and RustDesk together simplify the process of setting up remote desktop connections. By enabling direct IP access in RustDesk settings, you can bypass the need for self-hosted servers and keys. Once this setting is enabled, each Tailscale-connected RustDesk client can connect directly to others securely and efficiently. RustDesk's default nine-digit IDs are useful for support sessions, but Tailscale provides IP addresses for direct device-to-device connections.
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