Raspberry Pi Remote Access: Solutions & Tips [2024]

Prof. Ross Stoltenberg I 12 May 2025

Can you truly unlock the full potential of your Raspberry Pi, even when you're miles away? Remote access is no longer a luxury but a necessity in today's connected world, transforming your compact computer into a powerhouse that you can control from virtually anywhere.

This website has delved deep into the realm of remote access solutions for the Raspberry Pi, meticulously comparing various applications, their respective strengths, and weaknesses. The core concept is simple: gain control of your Raspberry Pi from another computer, whether it's on your home network or across the globe. The flexibility is dependent on the method employed.

Feature	Description
Raspberry Pi Remote Access	The ability to control and manage a Raspberry Pi from a distance, allowing users to access the desktop environment, command line, and files.
Key Technologies	VNC (Virtual Network Computing): A protocol that allows users to view and control a remote computer's desktop. SSH (Secure Shell): A network protocol that enables secure access to a command line interface. VPN (Virtual Private Network): A technology that creates a secure network connection over a public network like the internet.
Common Solutions	Chrome Remote Desktop: A free and officially supported remote access solution from Google. Raspberry Pi Connect: A screen sharing and remote shell service provided by Raspberry Pi. VNC Viewers: Such as RealVNC and TightVNC. Tailscale: A VPN service that simplifies remote access setup. Nomachine: A remote desktop software. Twingate: A remote access solution.
Applications	Home Automation: Controlling smart home devices remotely. Server Management: Administering Raspberry Pi servers. IoT Projects: Monitoring and controlling Internet of Things devices. Educational Purposes: Learning and experimenting with Linux and programming.
Benefits	Convenience: Access your Raspberry Pi from anywhere. Flexibility: Manage your Pi without a dedicated monitor, keyboard, or mouse. Security: Secure access through encryption and VPNs. Cost Savings: Reduce the need for physical peripherals.
Considerations	Security: Use strong passwords and VPNs for secure access. Performance: Network bandwidth can impact the responsiveness of remote access. Compatibility: Ensure that the chosen solution supports your Raspberry Pi model and operating system.
Reference	Raspberry Pi Official Website

I've personally utilized clients on a range of devices, setting up servers on two Raspberry Pi units: my Raspberry Pi 4 desktop, and my Raspberry Pi 4 server. Further extending my reach, I've incorporated my Framework laptop and my Android 13 phone into the mix, creating a versatile remote control ecosystem.

Chrome Remote Desktop, developed by Google, stands out as a free and officially sanctioned remote access solution for the Raspberry Pi. It offers the advantage of native apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android platforms. Installation involves a straightforward process of installing the Chrome Remote Desktop package on your Pi, followed by logging into a Google account via any Chrome browser or mobile app.

Venturing into the capabilities of Raspberry Pi Connect is worth exploring. Also, it's crucial to stay updated with recent developments. Updates regarding remote shell access and support for older Raspberry Pi devices have been documented. The beta release of Raspberry Pi Connect is a recent development, with the current requirement being a Raspberry Pi 5, Raspberry Pi 4, or Raspberry Pi 400 model to facilitate its use.

To transfer files to your Raspberry Pi, utilizing the VNC viewer is the method. Within the VNC viewer preview window, accessing the menu at the top of the screen provides the option to choose "Transfer files." Using the file picker allows selecting a file from your PC, and opening it initiates the transfer.

Raspberry Pi Connect is a secure remote access solution for the Raspberry Pi OS. It allows direct connection to your Raspberry Pi desktop and command line from any web browser. To remotely manage your Raspberry Pi from any internet-connected device, there are several options:

One can either expose SSH or VNC on the Raspberry Pi via the open internet, operate within a VPN, or employ an external service like RealVNC's Cloud VNC Viewer. Alternatively, the Raspberry Pi Connect, a free screen sharing and remote shell service provided by Raspberry Pi, can be used.

The ability to remotely access your Raspberry Pi's desktop is frequently invaluable. The recent introduction of a new, secure, and complimentary solution, "Twingate," is another exciting development. Twingate remote access eliminates the need for VPN setup, port forwarding, static IP addresses, or DDNS configuration.

A quick start guide is readily available to assist in setting up and running Twingate on your Raspberry Pi. Furthermore, with Raspberry Pi Connect, you gain direct access to your Pi through a web browser.

This tutorial offers guidance on any aspect related to Raspberry Pi Connect, encompassing installation, setup, and addressing any queries you may have. Utilizing VNC on a Raspberry Pi offers one of the simplest ways to gain remote control. If you are running Raspberry Pi OS, VNC is pre-installed; thus, to start, it simply needs to be enabled.

There are scenarios when accessing a Raspberry Pi without connecting it to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse is necessary. The use of Raspberry Pi Connect, a free screen-sharing and remote solution, facilitates this need.

To maximize your remote access experience, several useful tips are at your disposal. Firstly, use strong passwords to prevent unauthorized remote access. Secondly, use a VPN when accessing your Raspberry Pi from a different network. This makes it an excellent option for remotely accessing your Raspberry Pi or any other device, eliminating the hassle of configuring VPNs, firewalls, or DNS settings.

Installing Tailscale on a Raspberry Pi is a recommended procedure, and the following steps outline the setup process.

Raspberry Pi remote desktop software enables access and control of your Raspberry Pi device from a different computer or mobile device, simulating a direct interaction. This setup is particularly useful for managing your Raspberry Pi without requiring a dedicated monitor, keyboard, or mouse. Remote access is especially valuable if you maintain a "fleet" of remote microcomputers. Eliminating the need for peripherals such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor can save money and space.

From the SSH method for remote terminal access to Raspberry Pi Connect, a remote access method exists that is well-suited for your project. The ability to access your Raspberry Pi desktop from another computer on the network is incredibly useful, and TightVNC simplifies this process by providing fast and stable remote access. TightVNC uses optimized tight encoding specifically designed for LAN access.

This tutorial is a guide on how to use NoMachine on your Raspberry Pi for remote access. NoMachine is a free software tool that allows you to remotely access your Raspberry Pi's desktop. This software shares similarities with other remote desktop software such as TeamViewer or AnyDesk, providing the ability to share the desktop and enable remote functionality.

Secure remote access to my Raspberry Pi is provided through SSH, which is both lightweight and fast. SSH achieves this by creating an encrypted connection between your computer and the Raspberry Pi. Although not everything can be done via SSH, it has been found that 95% of the tasks required can be performed quickly by SSH-ing into the device.

Raspberry Pi is a pocket computer that runs on Linux. It is a multifaceted device that can be used for building hardware projects, home automation, industrial applications, IoT, remote access, and educational purposes. Its remote access capabilities truly enable the Pi to live up to its reputation as a versatile minicomputer.

Connect includes the ability to screen share on Raspberry Pi models running the Wayland window server and remote shell (terminal) access on all Raspberry Pi models. For more information, see the Connect documentation. To set up remote desktop access on your Raspberry Pi, you'll need to install a VNC server. VNC (Virtual Network Computing) allows you to access the desktop of your Raspberry Pi from another computer or mobile device.

To install and configure VNC on your Raspberry Pi: Open a terminal window on your Raspberry Pi. The tutorial will show you how to access your Raspberry Pi's desktop or command line from anywhere in the world. After setting up a remote desktop connection, you'll be able to access your Pi from your iPhone, iPad, or laptop from anywhere with an internet connection.