This guide provides detailed instructions on how to use various applications for screen sharing on Windows devices. It includes built-in tools in Windows such as Quick Assist and screen mirroring, top-tier third-party software like AnyViewer, AirDroid Cast, and TeamViewer, along with other noteworthy software like Droplr for Windows, Covideo, and Screenleap. Additionally, this guide covers several free tools including Zoom, Chrome Remote Desktop, Microsoft Remote Desktop, AeroAdmin, Remote Utilities, Mikogo, ShowMyPC, and SkyFex. Each section provides steps for using these applications, offering users a range of options to fit their needs. By the end of this guide, users will be equipped with the knowledge of how to operate these applications for screen sharing purposes.
Windows Native Screen Sharing Tools
Windows 10 offers in-built tools for screen sharing, providing immediate access without requiring any additional installations. These tools, Quick Assist and Screen Mirroring, stand as simple yet efficient solutions to your screen sharing needs. Let’s look at how to use them.
Quick Assist
Quick Assist, built directly into Windows 10/11, enables you to share and remotely control your screen. Here’s how:
- Open ‘Quick Assist’ using the Start menu.
- Click ‘Assist another person’ (Windows 10) or ‘Help someone’ (Windows 11) on your device.
- After logging into your Microsoft account, generate a security code, then share it with the individual who needs access.
- The recipient then enters the security code, selects a sharing option, and begins screen sharing.
Screen Mirroring
Windows facilitates screen projection to any Miracast-compatible device nearby. Check for compatibility by pressing Win + P. If ‘Connect to a wireless display’ is visible, your device supports Miracast.
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Third-Party Screen Sharing Software
Third-party screen sharing applications offer additional features and flexibility, enhancing the screen sharing experience on Windows devices. These applications, such as AnyViewer, AirDroid Cast, and TeamViewer, extend beyond the capabilities of built-in tools, providing an array of functionalities like multiple simultaneous screen shares, unsupervised remote access, and file transfers. These tools often require installation but present comprehensive solutions tailored to varied screen sharing requirements. Let’s explore how to use these applications.
AnyViewer
AnyViewer, a third-party software, provides additional functionalities including screen sharing, unsupervised remote access, and file transfers, augmenting the capabilities of Windows’ built-in tools. To employ AnyViewer:
- Install it on both devices.
- After logging in, go to the ‘Device’ option on your computer.
- Choose the device whose screen you’d like to view and click ‘View the screen.’
AirDroid Cast
AirDroid Cast, known for its user-friendly interface, facilitates remote screen sharing and supports multiple simultaneous screen shares. To utilize AirDroid Cast:
- Install it on your device and the devices that will receive the screen share.
- Start the application and choose ‘Cast to’ on the computer to be shared.
- Replicate the 9-digit cast code onto the receiving device.
- Your device’s screen will now display on the receiving device.
TeamViewer
TeamViewer, commonly used by IT and customer service professionals, provides remote screen access across different devices. To operate TeamViewer:
- Install it on your device.
- After creating an account, initiate TeamViewer QuickSupport.
- Copy the ID number into the TeamViewer application’s remote control panel.
- Once approved, your device’s screen will appear on the recipient’s device.
Additional Screen Sharing Tools Worth Mentioning
Other noteworthy applications such as Droplr for Windows, Covideo, and Screenleap provide expanded screen-sharing features. For example, Droplr offers a tool for sharing screens via screenshots and screen recordings. Covideo allows sharing via email and text with embedded videos, and Screenleap facilitates quick screen sharing directly from your Chrome browser.
Complimentary Screen Sharing Tools
Several free tools like Zoom, Chrome Remote Desktop, Microsoft Remote Desktop, AeroAdmin, Remote Utilities, Mikogo, ShowMyPC, and SkyFex, have made screen sharing and remote access even more accessible.
The Capabilities of Various Screen Sharing Tools
We’ve created a comparison table for easy reference, listing top screen sharing applications for Windows devices. The table includes information on whether an application is built-in or third-party, free or paid, supports simultaneous screen sharing, allows file transfer, and its special features.
Each application has unique features – some provide basic services for free and charge for advanced features. Simultaneous screen sharing allows multiple screen shares at once, beneficial for group collaborations. The file transfer feature lets users share files during screen sharing. The special features column highlights what sets each application apart, aiding your decision-making process.
Review the table to identify the screen sharing tool that best fits your needs.
Screen Sharing App
Built-in/Third-party
Free/Paid
Simultaneous Shares
File Transfer
Special Features
Quick Assist
Built-in
Free
No
No
Remote control
Screen Mirroring
Built-in
Free
Yes
No
Works with Miracast-compatible devices
AnyViewer
Third-party
Paid
Yes
Yes
Remote access without supervision
AirDroid Cast
Third-party
Paid
Yes
No
Multiple simultaneous screen shares
TeamViewer
Third-party
Free with limitations/Paid
Yes
Yes
Ideal for IT and customer service professionals
Droplr for Windows
Third-party
Free with limitations/Paid
Yes
No
Screenshots and screen recordings
Covideo
Third-party
Free trial/Paid
Yes
No
Sharing via email and text with embedded videos
Screenleap
Third-party
Free with limitations/Paid
Yes
No
Quick screen sharing from Chrome browser
Zoom
Third-party
Free with limitations/Paid
Yes
Yes
Video conferencing
Chrome Remote Desktop
Third-party
Free
No
No
Works through Chrome browser
Microsoft Remote Desktop
Third-party
Free
No
Yes
Access your personal computer from anywhere
AeroAdmin
Third-party
Free with limitations/Paid
Yes
Yes
Unattended access
Lite Manager
Third-party
Free with limitations/Paid
Yes
Yes
Remote management and control
AnyDesk
Third-party
Free with limitations/Paid
Yes
Yes
High-speed file transfer
Remote Utilities
Third-party
Free with limitations/Paid
Yes
Yes
Wide range of remote access features
Mikogo
Third-party
Free trial/Paid
Yes
Yes
Designed for web conferencing
ShowMyPC
Third-party
Free with limitations/Paid
Yes
Yes
Quick and easy setup
SkyFex
Third-party
Free trial/Paid
Yes
No
Designed for remote assistance
Wrapping Up
Finding the right screen sharing tool is more than just about ease-of-use. It’s about boosting your productivity in tasks like remote meetings, online classes, or virtual presentations. Your ideal choice should cater to your unique needs and the features you require. This guide will help you decide whether built-in Windows options, powerful third-party software, or cost-effective free alternatives work best for you. And don’t forget – while enjoying the perks of remote screen sharing, stay safe. Use unique, strong passwords, turn on two-factor authentication when you can, and always keep your software updated. Enjoy your screen sharing journey!