# Nexjoin Launches as a Native C++ Remote Desktop Alternative

A new cross-platform remote desktop engine prioritizing privacy and modular performance.

- **Source:** [Hacker News: Show HN](https://news.ycombinator.com)
- **Published:** 2026-11-08
- **Topic:** [technology](https://brifing.si/c/technology)
- **Original article:** <https://nexjoin.io/README.html>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/8b4c7768-3dbd-4e6d-b656-6e957da20236

## Independent Remote Desktop Engine

Former LogMeIn developer András Szigethy has released Nexjoin, a custom-built remote desktop system. Developed over several years, the project aims to provide a cleaner, more efficient alternative to existing market solutions. The engine is written in native C++ and consists of approximately 300,000 lines of code across 1,400 source files.

## Cross-Platform Technical Capabilities

Nexjoin supports Windows XP through Windows 11 and macOS 10.13 and later. It features per-window control, allowing users to run specific remote applications as if they were local. The software handles complex tasks like Unicode keyboard mapping, large clipboard synchronization, and multi-gigabyte file transfers between different operating systems seamlessly.

## Security and Privacy Architecture

The system prioritizes user privacy by encrypting all personal data on the client side using AES-256-CTR. Servers handle only anonymized UserId or DeviceId tokens, ensuring they cannot inspect data streams. Communication between processes is secured via TLS 1.3, and the architecture supports two-factor authentication through standard TOTP applications like Google Authenticator.

## Flexible Connection Management

Nexjoin offers multiple connection methods, including direct peer-to-peer links and relay-assisted sessions. Users can share specific windows or entire desktops using 9-digit Join Codes without requiring a full account. The software also supports local network discovery, enabling access to machines without relying on external servers for routing or authentication.

## Advanced Session Control Features

The software includes professional-grade features such as screen blanking on supported Windows and macOS versions. It allows for parallel access to macOS Fast User Switching desktops and provides a desktop panic button to immediately disconnect all remote clients. These tools are designed to maintain security while managing remote work environments effectively.

## Beta Status and Roadmap

Currently in an early beta state, the software is a closed-source project managed by a single developer. Future development plans include adding DirectX 9 screen capture for older Windows versions and conducting third-party security audits. The developer encourages community feedback and suggestions to shape the evolution of the engine's feature set.

## Sustainability and Open Source

Nexjoin relies on established open-source libraries such as Poco C++, wxWidgets, and SDL. To support the ecosystem, the developer has committed to donating 10% of incoming project revenue to these underlying projects. The software is available for download, with optional financial support requested via Patreon or Polar for B2B users.

## Deployment and System Requirements

Installation is required for screen sharing functionality, while the client can operate in a standalone mode. On Windows, the software requires KB3072630 for Server 2003 compatibility. Users may encounter initial Windows Defender SmartScreen warnings due to the new code-signing certificate, which the developer expects to resolve as the user base grows.

## Sources covering this story

- https://nexjoin.io/README.html — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._
