As your business grows, the ability to support remote working becomes more than just a convenience; it becomes a necessity. The right remote access software significantly affects how smoothly your teams can operate, especially when working across different locations. If you’re planning for future growth or adapting to hybrid operations, having a solution that supports flexibility, security, and simplicity is essential.
Moving Beyond Citrix: What’s Driving the Change?
Many businesses in the UK have used Citrix for years, relying on it as a go-to platform for remote access. However, you may now find it no longer fits your operational goals. Its complex licensing structure and technical setup often lead to high costs and ongoing maintenance demands. These challenges are encouraging many organisations to look for better options.
You might want a simpler, more cost-effective tool that delivers the same core functionality without the steep learning curve. One such option is TSplus, which was promoted as an alternative to Citrix for streamlined remote access. It removes many common pain points while offering a secure and reliable experience. If keeping control of your IT spending and reducing support demands are high on your list, then considering a platform like this could be a smart move.
The search for a Citrix alternative is not just about cutting costs. It is about finding a remote access platform that supports your current operations and adapts as you grow. Whether you run a small team or a larger business, making this change can simplify your setup and improve your long-term flexibility.
What to Prioritise When Choosing a Remote Access Platform
When exploring your options, it is important to consider more than just price. The platform you choose should support your business objectives without adding unnecessary complexity. You will want to prioritise security, ease of use and compatibility with your existing tools.
Security should come first. Any solution you choose must offer strong encryption, multi-factor authentication and access controls. These features help protect your data and give you peace of mind, particularly if you handle sensitive client information or need to meet GDPR requirements.
Next, look at how easy the software is to use. Adopting will be smoother if your team can get up and running quickly. Look for a clean, responsive interface that works well across desktops, mobile devices and browsers. Features such as session persistence make it easier for your staff to stay connected during brief network interruptions.
You should also consider how the software integrates with your existing systems. A strong Citrix alternative will work well alongside your productivity and communication tools, helping your team stay connected without disruption. Avoid tools that require changing how you work just to fit the software.
Finally, think about the level of support you will receive. If you do not have a dedicated IT department, you need access to reliable assistance. Look for providers that offer support during UK hours, with helpful documentation and responsive teams that can solve issues without delay.
How Leading Remote Access Solutions Compare
There are several remote access platforms that serve as strong alternatives to Citrix. Each one brings different benefits depending on what matters most to you:
TSplus Remote Access: TSplus is a user-friendly solution that can be installed easily on existing hardware without the need for extensive technical knowledge. It offers perpetual licensing, helping you avoid unexpected costs, and its straightforward administration tools make it suitable for businesses without a dedicated IT team.
·Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop: This option integrates tightly with Microsoft 365, making it ideal for businesses already committed to the Microsoft ecosystem. It supports multiple user sessions and flexible virtual environments, but the setup process can be complex, and licensing may require careful management.
· Parallels Remote Application Server: Parallels delivers remote access through a web browser and comes with built-in load balancing to ensure stable performance. Its interface is intuitive for administrators, and its subscription model offers predictable costs, though it’s important to regularly assess usage to avoid paying for features you don’t need.
Chrome Remote Desktop: A basic and free tool, Chrome Remote Desktop works well for very small teams needing quick access. It is easy to set up and use, but lacks advanced security features and management controls, which may limit its suitability for larger organisations or those with strict compliance needs.
Ericom Connect: Ericom is designed for security-focused businesses, offering advanced access controls and strong logging features. It is a solid option for companies in regulated industries where audit trails and granular permission settings are critical to operations.
Planning a Smooth Migration to a New Platform
Once you decide to move away from Citrix, the next step is managing the transition. A careful, phased rollout can reduce the risk of disruption and help you catch any issues early.
Start by selecting a small group of users from different departments. Test the new platform with this group and gather feedback. This helps you refine the rollout process before applying it across your business.
Prepare training materials tailored to different roles, but avoid overwhelming staff with long guides. Instead, focus on brief instructions that help them carry out their daily tasks. Supplement this with occasional refresher sessions or video tutorials to reinforce learning.
When preparing to migrate fully, map out all users, permissions and business-critical apps. Run the new platform parallel to your existing system if possible. This allows time to fix issues and builds confidence among users.
Preparing for the Future of Remote Access
Remote access technology is evolving quickly. Platforms now need to support browser-based software, mobile access and even edge computing in some cases. As these trends develop, your chosen tools should be ready to adapt.
Look for providers with clear development roadmaps and a solid track record of regular updates. The most reliable vendors respond quickly to changes in security standards, user needs and regulations. This helps you stay compliant and avoid falling behind as the market shifts.
Support for zero-trust models and flexible data-handling policies will also grow in importance. If your business handles sensitive or personal data, it is worth ensuring that your provider builds in strong data residency controls and advanced encryption features.
What’s the Right Choice for Your Business?
You do not need to keep using a platform that creates more problems than it solves. With many alternatives available, you can find a remote access solution that suits your goals better. So, evaluate your needs and make the right switch; doing so will help your business thrive in a more flexible and connected world.