Deskreen — Turn Any Device into a Secondary Screen via Browser

Introduction

Deskreen lets you extend or mirror your desktop to any device that has a web browser — tablets, phones, smart TVs, or unused laptops. It leverages WebRTC for low-latency peer-to-peer streaming over your local network, with no app installation required on the receiving end.

What Deskreen Does

• Streams your entire screen or a single application window to another device
• Uses WebRTC for peer-to-peer low-latency video transmission
• Provides end-to-end encryption for all streamed content
• Generates QR codes for instant connection on mobile devices
• Works with any device that has a modern web browser

Architecture Overview

Deskreen is an Electron-based desktop app that acts as a WebRTC signaling and streaming server. When a client connects via the generated URL, a peer-to-peer WebRTC connection is established. Screen capture uses the Electron desktopCapturer API, and the video stream is encoded and transmitted directly between peers. The Darkwire.io protocol provides end-to-end encryption.

Self-Hosting & Configuration

• Install the application on your host computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
• Ensure both devices are on the same local network
• Choose to share the entire screen or a specific application window
• Adjust video quality settings based on network bandwidth
• Use the virtual display driver for a true extended desktop experience

Key Features

• Zero-install on receiving devices: only a web browser is needed
• End-to-end encrypted streaming using Darkwire protocol
• Share full screen or individual application windows
• QR code connection for quick mobile setup
• Multi-viewer support for presentations and collaboration

Comparison with Similar Tools

• SpaceDesk — Windows-only and requires a client app; Deskreen is browser-based
• Duet Display — paid solution requiring dedicated apps on both ends
• AirPlay/Miracast — platform-locked; Deskreen works across any OS
• VNC/RDP — full remote control; Deskreen focuses on display extension
• Parsec — gaming-optimized remote access; Deskreen is simpler for extra monitors

FAQ

Q: Do I need to install anything on the receiving device? A: No, only a modern web browser is required on the device used as a secondary screen.

Q: What is the latency like? A: WebRTC provides low-latency streaming, typically suitable for productivity tasks, though not optimized for gaming.

Q: Can multiple devices connect simultaneously? A: Yes, you can share your screen to multiple browser clients at the same time.

Q: Does it work over the internet? A: It is designed for local network use. Internet streaming would require additional network configuration.

Sources

• https://github.com/pavlobu/deskreen
• https://deskreen.com