Deskreen

Deskreen is an open-source desktop app that converts any device with a web browser into a secondary screen for a computer. It enables users to extend their desktop workspace to tablets, smartphones, or other laptops without requiring additional hardware or proprietary software on the receiving device. This makes it a practical solution for users who need more screen real estate for multitasking or presentation purposes using existing hardware.

The application is built with Electron.js and is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It functions by creating a live stream of the host computer screen, which is then accessed via a web browser on any device connected to the same local network. Because the receiving end is a standard web browser, there is no need to install dedicated client applications on the tablets or phones used as secondary monitors.

Key features

• Screen sharing to multiple devices simultaneously
• Ability to share a specific application window
• Full screen sharing for desktop extension
• WebRTC based live streaming for low latency
• End-to-end encryption for secure connections
• QR code generation for quick device pairing
• Custom local IP configuration via CLI flags
• Cross-platform support for major desktop operating systems

Deskreen utilizes WebRTC to handle the data transmission between the host machine and the browser-based clients. The architecture relies on a local network connection, allowing the host to broadcast its display to any device that can render a webpage. For advanced users, the software supports starting with a custom local IP address through the use of the --local-ip or --ip CLI flags, which is useful when specifying a particular network interface. This ensures that the generated QR codes and connection URLs match the intended network path.

It is designed for developers, students, and professionals who require a flexible way to manage multiple windows across different devices. By leveraging common web standards, it removes the need for specialized cables or proprietary ecosystem locks.

This tool serves as a flexible utility for expanding digital workspaces across heterogeneous hardware environments.