AnyDesk Unattended Access vs Full Access
With the rise of remote work, AnyDesk provides users with the option to remotely access their computers when they do not have physical access to their devices. However, AnyDesk is often used by hackers to commit fraud, so it is important to understand the permission settings in the program before using it.
Fortunately, this is relatively easy to do. Read on to learn the difference between unattended access and full access in AnyDesk.
AnyDesk Unattended Access
When connecting to a remote device, someone usually needs to be physically present at the device to approve the request. This is where unattended access comes in. Profiles can be set up in AnyDesk with passwords to allow access without having to enter it on the remote device itself. This means that users can access a device in another location even if the device is “unattended”.
AnyDesk Full Access
Full access permissions allow anyone who knows your username and password to do anything with your computer, including administrative-level changes. It is critical to be extremely cautious with this permission setting. Full access is often used in scams because it allows someone to remotely access everything: personal data, program files, and even stored passwords.
In most cases, this level of authorization is not needed for everyday tasks. For security reasons, it is recommended to use the lowest permission level required. Remember that a user with full access can change your password and lock you out of your device.
For AnyDesk unattended access
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Remote IT support is the most common use of unattended access. Not everyone can benefit from the help of an IT person at work or near home. Most IT staff work remotely and must be contacted by phone. AnyDesk unattended access allows IT experts to fix security issues, settings, permissions, and more without having to be physically present on the device.
Managing devices in multiple locations is another use for unattended access. Whether maintaining a large number of outdoor devices or offices across the country, accessing them remotely saves users from having to go to each device individually.
People whose jobs require them to travel frequently can also take advantage of this benefit by accessing their home or office desktop while they are away. Sometimes something you need on your laptop is stored somewhere at home, and it is easy to access it without asking someone to log into your home computer.
AnyDesk Full Access Benefits
The main reason for needing full access is that a coworker (usually an IT specialist) needs full permissions to your computer. This should only be given to someone who is employed by the same company as the computer owner and has verified credentials, or someone you know personally.
Of course, sometimes it’s necessary to give yourself full access so that you can log in to your multiple devices. Be sure to maintain a strong password and don’t give your login information to anyone.
Full access is helpful when you need to assist an individual who has limited knowledge of computer technology. This is especially useful for remotely assisting elderly family members or other family members with disabilities with their computer technology needs.
How to enable AnyDesk unattended access
Once you’ve decided on the permission level that’s right for you, it’s time to set it up. However, unattended access is not enabled by default in AnyDesk. If you’d like to set it up, follow these steps.
If using a non-Windows computer or AnyDesk version prior to 7:
- Open the Settings menu and select Security.
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- Once enabled, you will be asked to set a password.
If using AnyDesk 7 or higher on Windows:
- Open Settings and select Security.
- Go to Permissions.
- Select Permission Profiles.
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Use this menu to manage authorizations for each profile. Once set up, remote connections to AnyDesk will have the permissions you’re happy with, and that’s it.
How to enable AnyDesk full access
If the default settings are still in place, there is no need to enable full access permissions. Users connecting remotely with the correct username and password will automatically be given full access permissions until the permissions are changed.
If you need to reset your profile to full permissions, you can do this through Profile permissions.
- Open the Settings menu.
- Under Security, select Permissions.
- Select Permission Profiles and change the permissions in each applicable profile.
The default setting is to assume that you are the only one connected to your device remotely. Remember to edit the access level when you start allowing other people to connect through the AnyDesk client.
Permission Profiles
AnyDesk allows you to configure multiple profiles so that individuals can have different levels of permissions through AnyDesk. Each profile can be customized, but it’s helpful to know the four popular profile settings.
- Standard. The Standard setting allows AnyDesk users connected to the AnyDesk client to have all permissions except two. They cannot create TCP tunnels or enable privacy mode.
- Screen Sharing. This can be used if you just need to show someone your screen without allowing them to edit anything. Connected users can view and monitor your device, but that’s where the permissions end.
- Full Access. As mentioned before, this gives anyone connected full control of your device. It is strongly recommended that you only use this with remote devices.
- Unattended access. By using a password, the person connecting has the level of control that you previously set in the Unattended Access area of Client Settings.
Default permissions example
Sometimes a profile will start with standard permissions. But in most cases, Full Access permissions are used by default and include the following capabilities:
- Hear the computer’s sound output and see the computer’s screen.
- Control your mouse, keyboard, clipboard, whiteboard applications, and more.
- Lock devices such as keyboard and mouse
- Restart your computer
- Navigate the file tree and create/edit/delete files
- View system information and saved passwords
- Creating a TCP Tunnel
- Enable Privacy Mode
- Lock your computer
It’s clear why understanding permissions is so important. Keep security in mind to prevent intruders from taking over your device by granting full access, which could seriously compromise your privacy.
Unattended access and full access with AnyDesk
With a good understanding of AnyDesk permissions, both unattended access and full access can become essential tools for working remotely or getting remote IT help. Never again will you be unable to use important computer functions just because you’re not currently at your desk. Set up your AnyDesk profile and you’ll have easy access to all your devices on your next business trip.
Do you often use unattended access and full access in AnyDesk? If so, which features do you like best? Let us know in the comments section below.