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Best Free Alternatives to Citrix Virtual Apps
Stop paying Expensive (User/Month). Discover professional-grade tools that won't break your budget.
Category: VDI & Remote AccessVerified for 2025
Top Recommended Replacements
Apache Guacamole
FREEBest Clientless Remote Gateway
Why we like it
100% free; no client software required (runs in any HTML5 browser); supports RDP, SSH, and VNC protocols.
Keep in mind
Requires significant manual configuration and Linux server knowledge; lacks built-in application publishing features of Citrix.
Kasm Workspaces
FREEBest for Containerized App Streaming
Why we like it
Streams isolated desktop and app containers directly to the browser; excellent for security (disposable sessions); modern and fast UI.
Keep in mind
The free Community Edition is limited to personal use; requires Docker-compatible infrastructure.
Parallels RAS
Best Mid-Market Enterprise Alternative
Why we like it
Incredibly easy to deploy compared to Citrix; includes load balancing and reporting out of the box; much lower licensing cost.
Keep in mind
Lacks the hyper-specialized 'niche' graphics protocols that Citrix HDX offers for extreme low-bandwidth scenarios.
ThinLinc
FREEBest for Linux-Native VDI
Why we like it
The gold standard for delivering Linux desktops; high-performance graphics; free for small teams up to 10 concurrent users.
Keep in mind
Strictly focused on Linux servers; does not natively host Windows applications.
TSplus
Best for Budget-Conscious Businesses
Why we like it
Extremely affordable; turns any Windows PC into a remote access server in minutes; simple web portal for users.
Keep in mind
The interface and branding feel less 'corporate' than high-end rivals; management tools are basic.
Omnissa Horizon (VMware)
Best for Large Hybrid Infrastructures
Why we like it
Deep integration with VMware vSphere; excellent management of large-scale virtual desktop pools; high-performance Blast protocol.
Keep in mind
Similar complexity and high price points to Citrix; recently underwent a major corporate rebranding.
Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)
Best for Microsoft 365 Users
Why we like it
Only platform with Windows 10/11 Multi-session; included with many M365 licenses; infinite scalability in the cloud.
Keep in mind
Cloud-only (unless using Azure Stack HCI); costs can spiral if VM auto-scaling is not managed properly.
GO-Global
Best for App-Only Publishing
Why we like it
Bypasses the expensive Microsoft RDS stack; very lightweight client; perfect for ISVs looking to web-enable legacy apps.
Keep in mind
Does not provide full virtual desktops; only focuses on application delivery.
Inuvika OVD Enterprise
Best for Hybrid Windows/Linux Apps
Why we like it
Linux-based backend reduces Microsoft licensing costs; delivers Windows and Linux apps side-by-side in one portal.
Keep in mind
Smaller community and support ecosystem compared to major players; requires Linux expertise for the backend.
X2Go
FREEBest for Simple Linux Remote Access
Why we like it
Excellent for low-bandwidth connections; completely free; supports session suspension and reconnection.
Keep in mind
The client UI is very dated; lacks enterprise management features like load balancing and multi-tenancy.
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