← Blog · Updated 2026-10-11

Inuksuk vs RustDesk: which remote support tool?

RustDesk and Inuksuk solve the same problem — remotely controlling another PC — in opposite ways. RustDesk is free, open-source software you self-host and run yourself, cross-platform but technical. Inuksuk is a hosted, pay-per-use service for Windows: nothing to install or operate, $2.99 CAD a session, and your client pays nothing. Here is how to choose.

At a glance

Choose RustDesk if…

you want full control and no per-session cost, you are comfortable running and maintaining your own relay server, and you need to support macOS, Linux or mobile as well as Windows. Being open source, you can self-host and keep all data on your own infrastructure — ideal for technical users and privacy-focused setups.

Choose Inuksuk if…

you don't want to run any server, you support Windows PCs, and you prefer paying per use instead of managing infrastructure. You sign in to a web portal, send the client a link, and take control — nothing to configure. Pricing is $2.99 CAD a session, your client pays nothing, and support is available in French and English. It is built and operated in Québec, Canada.

The bottom line

RustDesk trades setup effort for zero per-session cost and full control. Inuksuk trades a small per-use fee for zero infrastructure and instant use on Windows. If running a server sounds like a chore, Inuksuk is the simpler path; if you want free and self-hosted and you are technical, RustDesk is excellent.

Frequently asked questions

Is RustDesk really free?

The RustDesk client is free and open source. It's free to use with the public servers, but for reliable or private use you run your own relay server (a VPS you pay for and maintain), and RustDesk Server Pro is a paid license for teams.

What is the main difference with Inuksuk?

RustDesk is self-hosted software you install and operate. Inuksuk is a hosted service: nothing to run, you pay per use ($2.99 CAD a session) and the client pays nothing. RustDesk is cross-platform; Inuksuk is Windows-only.

Which is cheaper?

If you can self-host, RustDesk's client is free (your only cost is the server). If you don't want to run a server, Inuksuk is cheaper than a paid subscription for light use: $2.99 CAD per 7-day license, no infrastructure.

Do I need technical skills to set up RustDesk?

For serious use, yes — you configure an ID/relay server, keys and updates. Inuksuk requires no setup: you sign in to a web portal and send the client a link.

This page is independent and not affiliated with RustDesk. "RustDesk" is a trademark of its owner.