computerWhether your the PC expert always getting called on to help or your not the expert and need some help, it’s always easier to fix a problem if you can look over the person’s shoulder that needs help. There are several programs out there that allow remote access. Most of the programs require a registration process and money. The PC that’s in trouble needs to setup an account, pay, then give out their account and password so you can log in and connect.

There is a built in Remote Desktop in Windows XP Pro (click here if you really want to know), I’ve seen it and used it, but it’s definitely not the best solution in this case.

log me in

If you’re going to acces your own desktop at home from your laptop on the road (or the other way around) Log Me In.com has a completely free version for personal use. You setup an account, download the software and have it running the remote PC or Mac. You log into your account which has the remote computer attached and it’s like your sitting in front of it. Transfer files, even cut and paste between computers. You setup passwords on the account plus use a password on the remote computer you’re accessing. There’s a chat function (cell phones work better, trust me), you can reboot the remote computer, change screen resolution, color quality (for speed) and several other security and functional options.

If you’re in a corporate environment helping out an entire company or several computers, Logmein has several different paid options depending on your situation.

cross loop

What if Granny calls you and needs help? You didn’t set up her computer before you left. Fixing the problem would be quicker then the registration! If she’s online tell her to go to Cross Loop.com, download, install, run. Free, no registration required. You have to do the same. She tells you what her access name and number are, you type it in on your side and the two computers are connected over a secure connection.

Either the helper or the helpee can setup an account later that would make things even faster and will track the help sessions given or received. If you are building a large clientele (you must have listened to Roadcast #8), the free account and profile will -

  • Build Your Credentials
  • Track Your Sessions
  • Share Feedback and Testimonials
  • Promote Your Expertise Anywhere on the Web

They are still in beta and I’m not sure how the promoting your expertise will work, but it’s still free, it works and you can transfer files. Functions are limited compared to higher priced options at other sites. There’s no chat or clipboard sharing and both people have to be present in order for this to work. Both computers have two minutes to connect and accept the connection. There’s no remote accessing a computer without someone sitting there.

It works, it’s free, it’s easy to be able to tell someone else to do in an emergency. Or you can set it up before you go on the possible problem computers, then help is just a mouse click (and a phone call) away.