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Apache Guacamole Reviews

Vendor: Apache
4.7 out of 5
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What is Apache Guacamole?

Apache Guacamole provides an open-source, clientless remote access solution that allows organizations to securely access multiple virtual machines with ease, offering customization to enhance security and efficiency.

Get the Apache Guacamole Buyer's Guide and find out what your peers are saying about Apache Guacamole, Microsoft Intune, Citrix DaaS (formerly Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops service) and more!
Apache Guacamole is the #4 ranked solution in top Remote Access solutions. PeerSpot users give Apache Guacamole an average rating of 9.4 out of 10. Apache Guacamole is most commonly compared to Microsoft Intune: Apache Guacamole vs Microsoft Intune. Apache Guacamole is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 45% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a manufacturing company, accounting for 13% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
Apache Guacamole
June 2026
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Apache Guacamole mindshare

As of June 2026, the mindshare of Apache Guacamole in the Remote Access category stands at 2.8%, down from 4.9% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Remote Access Mindshare Distribution
ProductMindshare (%)
Apache Guacamole2.8%
TeamViewer8.2%
Microsoft Remote Desktop Services6.7%
Other82.3%
Remote Access

PeerResearch reports based on Apache Guacamole reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryRemote AccessJun 11, 2026Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersJun 11, 2026Download
ComparisonApache Guacamole vs TeamViewerJun 11, 2026Download
ComparisonApache Guacamole vs Microsoft IntuneJun 11, 2026Download
ComparisonApache Guacamole vs Microsoft Remote Desktop ServicesJun 11, 2026Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Microsoft Intune4.16.3%95%376 interviewsAdd to research
Citrix DaaS (formerly Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops service)4.25.3%93%128 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers
Last updated May 31, 2026

Valuable Features

Apache Guacamole stands out for its user-friendly interface, quick setup, and efficient protocols. It offers secure remote access without requiring client installations, supports customization, and facilitates easy management of virtual machines. Its open-source nature allows for cost-effective customization, impacting organizations by providing secure, seamless access to remote desktops and apps, simplifying user provisioning, and enhancing workflow speed and security through web-based access and presentation recording.
  • "In my opinion, the best features that Apache Guacamole offers are being free, providing a web-based remote Windows session service, and allowing remote printing of files."
  • "Apache Guacamole has positively impacted my organization by making my life easier when I need to set up separate VMs or machines for my CTF, especially when hosting CTFs with hundreds of participants accessing VMs at the same time."
  • "Apache Guacamole has positively impacted our organization because we are able to give access to Windows instances easily."

Room for Improvement

Apache Guacamole's USB redirection is inadequate. Documentation lacks clarity and step-by-step guidance. Hosting instructions and UI along with AI functionality need enhancements. Security features require better advertisement and deployment wizards should simplify setup. Issues arise with login systems and overloads; improvements are needed in data sharing and control. Although user interface design could benefit from additional customization, some express overall satisfaction, citing an improved experience with Kubernetes support.
  • "I think that in the visual interface it would be interesting to make it easier to change the background."
  • "I have faced some difficulties when copying and pasting data at points, but apart from that, the stability is great and cursor movements are in real-time with very low latency."
  • "In my opinion, Apache Guacamole can be improved with USB access, a native client, and enhanced browser access, which would be beneficial."

ROI

Users experienced a return on investment with Apache Guacamole as it facilitated onboarding, expanding client reach without additional infrastructure costs. Companies reduced expenses by using a remote system, converting potential Citrix customers, saving on AWS costs, and streamlining operations, which increased client numbers and efficiency. Deploying became more straightforward and required fewer resources, enabling significant monetary and time gains, allowing businesses to divert funds optimally, and achieving better profitability and client acquisition.

Pricing

Apache Guacamole is described as an affordable solution with no licensing or setup costs, offered as a free, open-source VM on platforms like AWS. Users appreciate its ease of use and flexibility, allowing them to implement custom licensing and pricing if desired. Many utilize the solution without incurring any charges by leveraging the community version, making it an attractive option for enterprises seeking a cost-effective remote access tool.

Popular Use Cases

Organizations primarily use Apache Guacamole for remote server access, managing virtual machines, and secure access without the need for device-installed agents. It is utilized by airline staff for duty management, schools for virtual machine provision, companies for enhanced security with blockchain, replacing alternatives like Citrix CVAD, and offering customized in-house applications. Apache Guacamole is favored for its open-source nature, flexibility in customization, and ease of use for exposing private instances and managing virtual access.

Service and Support

Apache Guacamole offers community-focused support with active contributions from developers. Many users find the available documentation and public resources like GitHub and Stack Overflow sufficient. While direct customer service isn't emphasized, users adept with technical resources often manage issues independently. The active community and well-maintained guidance ensure effective assistance without needing direct contact, although third-party support may be necessary for priority concerns.

Deployment

Many found Apache Guacamole's initial setup straightforward and quick, often completed in about half an hour. Installation is free and open-source; users only incur server costs if needed. Some deploy it easily via Docker and Kubernetes. No licensing costs are associated for those opting for the community edition. Setup experiences are typically smooth, with ease of hosting and provisioning becoming key highlights. Many download directly and install on systems like EC2.

Scalability

Apache Guacamole exhibits strong scalability, handling users simultaneously with ease. It adapts to cloud scalability, facilitating horizontal and vertical growth. Users report reliable load management and quick system setups. Multi-node deployments and load balancing enhance its scalability, ensuring high availability across sites. Organizations appreciate its ability to cater to diverse needs without system performance issues, making it favorably scalable for various company sizes in light of competitive pricing challenges.

Stability

Apache Guacamole is consistently regarded as stable. Users emphasize its dependable performance, noting the stability of its protocols, API, and packages. Stability seems to require good internet connectivity, but no significant issues detract from this perception. Many highlight its reliability, often stating they have not encountered stability or performance problems. The general sentiment suggests a positive, unwavering experience with Apache Guacamole.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our Apache Guacamole Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business7
Midsize Enterprise1
Large Enterprise3
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business101
Midsize Enterprise66
Large Enterprise139
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Manufacturing Company
13%
Educational Organization
11%
Comms Service Provider
11%
Government
7%
Computer Software Company
7%
University
6%
Financial Services Firm
6%
Energy/Utilities Company
5%
Outsourcing Company
4%
Hospitality Company
4%
Media Company
4%
Construction Company
3%
Retailer
3%
Real Estate/Law Firm
2%
Healthcare Company
2%
Insurance Company
2%
Marketing Services Firm
2%
Pharma/Biotech Company
1%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Non Profit
1%
Performing Arts
1%
Transportation Company
1%
Wholesaler/Distributor
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%

Compare Apache Guacamole with alternative products

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Learn more about Apache Guacamole

With no subscription fees, Apache Guacamole is user-friendly and appeals to enterprises by simplifying remote server access and virtual machine provisioning. Its open-source nature enables significant customization, optimizing workflows and improving efficiencies for organizations looking for alternative remote access tools. It supports remote access, application publishing, and session recording with efficient protocols and extensive documentation ensuring secure, fast server access. Despite its potential, improvements in USB redirection, FX protocol, AI features, and intuitive deployment are needed. The interface requires modernization, and a simpler installation process would greatly benefit users. While networking issues and hosting complexities are challenges, it remains a valuable tool for varying industries.

What are the key features of Apache Guacamole?
  • User-Friendly Remote Access: Simplifies access to virtual machines and servers with distinct logins.
  • Open Source Customization: Offers flexibility and enhances security and efficiency.
  • Remote Access & Publishing: Facilitates application publishing and recording.
  • Efficient Protocols: Ensures secure and fast server access.
  • Comprehensive Documentation: Aids in setup and usage with detailed information.
What benefits or ROI can users expect from Apache Guacamole?
  • Cost Reduction: Eliminates subscription fees.
  • Improved Onboarding: Streamlines user adoption processes.
  • Expanded Market Access: Increases adaptability for new market opportunities.

Apache Guacamole is employed across industries to facilitate secure remote server access and virtual machine provisioning. With multi-user support, airlines use it for staff accessing rosters, while educational institutions provision systems effectively. Many choose it as an open-source alternative to Citrix CVAD, customizing it as their in-house solution. It allows secure server access even under strict security constraints, proving helpful in environments requiring guest user capabilities without software installations.

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Product Categories

Product Categories
Remote Access

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Apache Guacamole Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
Lead Backend Engineer at Singhania QuestPlus5.0I've used Apache Guacamole for secure, agentless server access leveraging blockchain, valuing its customizable protocols and fast performance, though its documentation and UI need improvement; it's scalable, open-source, and helped us gain key clients and ROI.
Full Stack Engineer at Datawyse4.0I've used Apache Guacamole for over two years to provision and manage remote systems efficiently; it's open-source, easy to set up, and highly scalable, though occasional UI issues and minor technical hiccups keep it from being perfect.
Soc Analyst at Payatu5.0I primarily use Apache Guacamole for browser-based VNC/RDP access to AWS VMs for CTFs and sandboxing. Its stability and scalability are excellent, making managing many VMs easy. Copy-pasting needs improvement, but it's a great, free open-source tool, earning a 10/10 rating.
Cybersecurity Engineer at a tech consulting company with 51-200 employees4.5I've used Apache Guacamole for five years as a cost-effective, customizable Citrix alternative, helping us retain budget-conscious clients by offering secure remote access, though it lacks some advanced features and could benefit from better-promoted security assurances.
CEO at Exaact Solutions4.5I’ve used Apache Guacamole for seven years for clientless remote access and recording; it’s easy to install, stable, and scalable for any size. Community documentation is decent. I’d like USB support, a native client, and better browser access.
Senior Software Test Analyst at CoCre8 Technology Solutions4.5I find Apache Guacamole a stable, scalable, and affordable solution with a user-friendly interface that simplifies workflow for airline staff. Setup was straightforward, and I'm happy with it, though AI integration would be a nice improvement.
Infrastructure Monitoring Specialist at a tech vendor with 10,001+ employees5.0I used Apache Guacamole for three years and found it simple, free, and effective for remote access needs, though initial setup could be easier. Its web-based interface greatly improved team efficiency without requiring complex maintenance or licensing.
DevOps Engineer at Mesotechnologia5.0I replaced AWS AppStream with Apache Guacamole for secure, web-based Windows access, saving significant costs. It's stable, free, and highly recommended, though minor visual customization would be nice. I found it very impactful.