AnyDesk – the complete guide to remote IT support

Remote desktop software has changed IT support: a technician can connect to your computer and fix it over the internet, without coming to your home or office. AnyDesk is one of the most popular remote access tools, used by millions of people and IT companies around the world – including Perfect Light. In this guide you will learn what AnyDesk is, how to use it safely and when remote support is the best option.

What is AnyDesk?

AnyDesk is remote desktop software that lets you access and control a computer over the internet. With AnyDesk, an IT technician can see your screen and use your computer as if they were sitting in front of it – to fix problems, install software, change settings or show you how something works.

Why AnyDesk?

• Speed: Its own DeskRT codec makes the remote screen feel almost instant, even on slower connections
• Simplicity: A clean interface – you connect using a 9–10 digit ID number
• Security: TLS 1.2 encryption and verification mechanisms protect every session
• Free for personal use: You pay nothing to use it privately
• Cross-platform: Works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS
• Small download: A few MB, ready in seconds
• Portable: Runs without installation, even from a USB stick

Installing AnyDesk step by step

Step 1: download AnyDesk

1. Go to the official website: anydesk.com
2. Click “Download now”
3. The file downloads automatically (it takes a few seconds)

Step 2: run AnyDesk

You can use AnyDesk in two ways:

Option A: without installing (portable)

• Double-click the downloaded AnyDesk.exe file
• Choose to just run it
• AnyDesk starts immediately, nothing is installed
• You get a temporary ID number

Option B: installed (recommended for regular use)

• Double-click AnyDesk.exe
• Choose “Install AnyDesk on this device”
• Optionally set a password for unattended access
• You get a permanent ID tied to your computer

Step 3: find your AnyDesk ID

Once AnyDesk is running, you will see your AnyDesk address (ID number) – a number unique to your computer. This is what you read out to your IT support when you need help.

How to use AnyDesk for remote support

Scenario 1: you need help (receiving remote support)

1. Start AnyDesk on your computer
2. Find your AnyDesk ID in the main window
3. Call your IT support (Perfect Light: +385 98 828 905) and tell them your ID
4. The technician enters your ID and requests access
5. A window appears on your screen: “Incoming connection request…”
6. Click “Accept”
7. The technician can now see your screen and help you

Scenario 2: you are helping someone (giving remote support)

1. Start AnyDesk
2. Ask the person who needs help to run AnyDesk and tell you their ID
3. Type their ID into the “Remote Desk” field
4. Click “Connect”
5. The other person has to accept the request
6. You now see their screen and can control their computer

Security settings and best practices

Remote access is a powerful tool, so use it carefully:

1. Set a strong password

If you install AnyDesk permanently, protect unattended access with a strong password:

• Settings (gear icon) > Security > Unlock Security Settings
• Set a Password for unattended access
• Use at least 12 characters (letters, numbers and symbols)

2. Only accept requests you expect

NEVER accept an access request from a person or company you do not know. If you did not contact IT support yourself, decline the request.

3. Watch what the technician does

During the session you see everything that happens on your computer. If anything looks suspicious, end the session immediately (click the red X).

4. Use an access allowlist (optional)

In the Security settings you can allow access only from specific AnyDesk IDs – for example only your IT provider’s ID.

5. Turn off session recording (privacy)

If you do not want sessions to be recorded, turn off Enable session recording in the settings.

Key AnyDesk features

1. File transfer

You can send and receive files during a session:

• Click the “Files” tab in the AnyDesk window
• Browse the files on both computers
• Drag and drop files between them

2. Clipboard sync

Copy and paste works automatically between your computer and the remote one.

3. Session recording

Record a whole session for later review or documentation.

4. Chat

A text chat inside the session, so you can communicate without a phone.

5. Printing to a local printer

Print documents from the remote computer on your own printer.

6. Sound transfer

Hear the sound from the remote computer – useful for troubleshooting.

Remote support or an on-site visit – which one when?

Remote support is ideal for:

• Software problems (installation, configuration, troubleshooting)
• Windows problems and optimisation
• Virus and malware removal
• Email and internet setup
• Setting up backups
• Training (watch and learn)
• Urgent situations that need help fast
• Saving time and money (no travel costs)

An on-site visit is needed for:

• Setting up a new computer or equipment
• Network infrastructure (cables, routers, switches)
• Situations that need physical access (BIOS, startup problems)
• A computer that will not start or cannot connect to the internet
• More complex setups (networks with several computers)

AnyDesk scams – how to protect yourself

Unfortunately, scammers use AnyDesk for fake tech support scams. Here is how to stay safe:

Warning signs:

• Unsolicited phone calls: “Microsoft support” calls you claiming your computer has a virus
• Pop-up windows claiming your computer is infected and asking you to call a number
• Demands for payment before they “fix” your computer
• Requests to log in to your online banking “to process a refund”

How to protect yourself:

• NEVER give AnyDesk access to a stranger who contacts you
• Microsoft, Google and other big companies NEVER call you first
• If you did not ask for IT support, decline the request
• Check that the company is real (website, reviews, physical address)
• Ask the technician to identify themselves

Conclusion

AnyDesk is a powerful, simple tool that makes IT support faster – most problems can be fixed without anyone travelling to you. Used carefully and with the right security settings, remote support is quicker, cheaper and often just as effective as an on-site visit.

Perfect Light in Zagreb uses AnyDesk for fast remote IT support – in English or Croatian, for home users and businesses across Croatia and abroad. We often solve the problem within minutes, with no waiting for a technician to arrive.