RustDesk
Remote Access and Support Tools
Open Source
Free Tier
Paid Plans
E
EnterpriseSelf-hosted
OpenMSP Score
8984
Reddit Impact Score
Github Score
2B117KStars
17KForks
11KCommits
GNU Affero General Public License v3.0License
Jul 6, 2026Last commit
Alternative Vendors
Commercial Alternatives
RustDesk is a full-featured open source remote desktop software that works out of the box without configuration. It supports self-hosted servers for complete data control and privacy, or you can use public servers. RustDesk offers cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Web) and is trusted by thousands of organizations with millions of downloads.
Key capabilities include secure remote access, file transfer, TCP tunneling, clipboard support, and multi-monitor support. The open-source community-driven solution provides an affordable alternative to commercial remote desktop tools like TeamViewer, AnyDesk, and Splashtop.
RustDesk Server Pro is available for organizations requiring advanced features like user-level ACL, device groups, LDAP integration, 2FA, and enhanced security controls.
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Key Features
Self-Hosted Control
Host your own server for complete data sovereignty and privacy compliance
Cross-Platform Support
Works seamlessly on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and Web browsers
Open Source
Fully open source (AGPL-3.0) with active community development and transparency
Easy Deployment
Built-in network configuration and Docker support makes setup effortless
Secure File Transfer
Encrypted file transfer between connected devices with drag-and-drop support
TCP Tunneling
Port forwarding and TCP tunneling capabilities for advanced networking
Pros and Cons
Pros
Customizable
90+ configuration options and white-label branding capabilities
Open Source & Free
Completely free and open source (99.4k GitHub stars) with no subscription costs for self-hosting
Self-Hosting Option
Full control over your data with easy Docker deployment and data sovereignty
High Performance
Low latency with optimized codecs and efficient resource usage
Active Development
Vibrant community with frequent updates and 14.6k forks on GitHub
Cons
Self-Hosting Complexity
Requires technical knowledge to set up and maintain your own server infrastructure
Limited Enterprise Features in Free Version
Advanced features like LDAP, ACL, and 2FA require RustDesk Server Pro subscription
Smaller Ecosystem
Fewer third-party integrations compared to established commercial alternatives
Community Support
Primarily community-driven support unless using Server Pro with paid support
Feature Comparison
Comments
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OpenMSP Score
8984
Reddit Impact Score
Github Score
2B117KStars
17KForks
11KCommits
GNU Affero General Public License v3.0License
Jul 6, 2026Last commit
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
What is OpenMSP?
OpenMSP is The MSP Knowledge Hub & Community Platform designed specifically for Managed Service Providers seeking to optimize their technology stack, reduce vendor costs, and discover open-source alternatives. We combine a comprehensive vendor directory, open-source solution catalog, and integrated community discussions to help MSPs make informed decisions.
Is OpenMSP really free?
Yes, completely free. Browse vendors and tools, read comparisons, and join community discussions - no cost, no registration required. OpenMSP is community-supported and focused on empowering MSPs to reduce costs and improve operational efficiency through open-source technology.
How does OpenMSP help MSPs reduce costs?
We help MSPs identify cost-effective alternatives to expensive commercial solutions, provide transparent vendor information, and connect you with proven open-source alternatives. Our platform enables MSPs to make informed decisions about their technology investments.
Do I need to create an account to use OpenMSP?
No account required for browsing vendors, reading comparisons, or accessing community content. Creating a free account with SSO (Microsoft, Google, or Slack) allows you to participate in discussions and save your favorite tools.
Platform Information
How does OpenMSP make money?
OpenMSP is currently community-supported. We focus on providing value to the MSP community first. Any future monetization will keep the core platform free for MSPs while maintaining our independence and commitment to unbiased information.
What makes OpenMSP different from other resources?
We focus exclusively on MSP needs with transparent vendor information and open-source alternatives. No vendor partnerships or sponsored listings - just honest, community-driven information to help MSPs make better technology decisions. Our biggest value is our community where MSPs help each other with questions, setup guidance, and sharing real-world experiences.
How is vendor and tool information verified?
Our community of MSP professionals helps verify and update information. We also maintain direct research on tools and vendors to ensure accuracy. Community members can report outdated information, and we work to keep everything current.
Who is behind OpenMSP?
OpenMSP was founded by Michael Assraf, who has extensive experience in the MSP industry and product leadership. As the former CEO & Founder of Vicarius, Michael grew a startup from $0 to $9M ARR with 500+ customers and deep experience working with MSPs, partners, and fundraising. OpenMSP represents his commitment to empowering the MSP community through better technology decisions and cost optimization.
Open-Source Tools & Alternatives
How do you evaluate open-source tool quality?
We assess tools based on active development, community size, documentation quality, production deployments by MSPs, and available support options. Tools must meet strict criteria for reliability and enterprise readiness.
Can I get support for open-source tools?
Many open-source projects offer multiple support options including community forums, commercial support from vendors, professional services, and our community discussions where experienced MSPs share implementation guidance.