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Remote access solutions are now essential for businesses of all sizes. Employees want the flexibility to work from anywhere, while IT teams must ensure security, reliability, and efficiency. For years, Citrix has been one of the most recognized names in remote desktop and application delivery. However, as technology evolves, many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are exploring Citrix alternatives that are more affordable and easier to manage.

This guide takes a closer look at Citrix, its challenges, and the best cost-effective remote access tools available today.

Why Businesses Look for Citrix Alternatives

Citrix is a powerful solution, but it often comes with complexity and high costs that not every organization can handle. Here are the common reasons SMBs and even large enterprises start searching for alternatives:

1. High Licensing Costs – Citrix solutions usually involve expensive licensing and subscription fees. For smaller companies, this can eat up a large portion of their IT budget.

2. Complex Setup and Maintenance – Deploying and managing Citrix often requires specialized IT knowledge and dedicated administrators. This can be overwhelming for lean IT teams.

3. Overkill for SMBs – Many of Citrix’s advanced features are not even necessary for small businesses that only need secure remote access.

4. Scalability Concerns – Adding new users or scaling up can be costly and complicated with Citrix, which slows down growing businesses.

5. Support Challenges – Many customers report delays or difficulties with Citrix customer support, leading to frustration.

Because of these issues, companies are seeking cost-effective, simple, and reliable remote access alternatives.

Top Citrix Alternatives for Remote Access

1. TSPlus Remote Access

One of the most popular Citrix alternatives is TSPlus Remote Access, designed with SMBs in mind.

Key Benefits:

Affordable Licensing – TSPlus offers lifetime licenses and subscription options at a fraction of Citrix’s cost.

Simple Setup – Installation takes just 15 minutes, with no complex configuration needed.

Secure Access – Includes HTTPS connections, two-factor authentication, and IP protection.

Remote Desktop & Application Delivery – Allows businesses to publish both desktops and individual apps seamlessly.

Web Portal Access – Employees can log in securely from any device with a browser.

Excellent Support – Known for responsive and customer-friendly assistance.

For SMBs that need secure, easy-to-use remote access without breaking the bank, TSPlus is a strong choice.

2. Parallels Remote Application Server (RAS)

Parallels RAS is another well-known competitor that delivers remote desktops and applications.

Why Consider Parallels RAS?

More affordable than Citrix with flexible licensing.

Works well for businesses with hybrid or remote-first teams.

Strong mobile device compatibility.

However, it still has higher costs and setup complexity compared to solutions like TSPlus.

3. VMware Horizon

VMware Horizon offers advanced virtualization and remote desktop capabilities.

Strengths:

Deep integration with VMware ecosystem.

Strong performance for large enterprises.

Reliable scalability.

Drawbacks:

Still expensive compared to budget-friendly alternatives.

More suitable for enterprises than SMBs.

4. Microsoft Remote Desktop Services (RDS)

Microsoft RDS is a built-in solution for Windows Server environments.

Advantages:

Familiar to IT teams already using Microsoft products.

Relatively affordable for basic remote desktop needs.

Works well in Windows-centric environments.

Limitations:

Requires extra setup for advanced features like web access or multi-device support.

Security and customization are limited without third-party add-ons.

5. AnyDesk and TeamViewer

These tools are popular for quick remote access and IT support.

Pros:

Easy to install and use.

Good for one-on-one remote support sessions.

Works across multiple platforms.

Cons:

Not designed for enterprise-level remote desktop infrastructure.

Subscription costs rise quickly with multiple users.

Which Alternative Is Right for Your Business?

Choosing the right remote access tool depends on your organization’s size, budget, and IT expertise.

If you are a small or medium business looking for a cost-effective, secure, and simple-to-deploy Citrix alternative, TSPlus Remote Access is the best fit.

If you need a hybrid solution with more features and can afford moderate pricing, Parallels RAS may work.

For large enterprises with complex IT infrastructure, VMware Horizon or Citrix itself may still be useful.

For freelancers and IT support teams, AnyDesk or TeamViewer provide fast and convenient options.

Final Thoughts

While Citrix remains a strong player in the remote access space, it is no longer the only option. Many SMBs now recognize that simpler and more cost-effective Citrix alternatives exist. Tools like TSPlus Remote Access deliver everything a business needs to empower remote work like security, reliability, and productivity, without the hefty price tag or unnecessary complexity.

For businesses focused on agility and affordability, exploring these alternatives can lead to better IT efficiency and long-term growth.