Cairns Computer Help

Jul.23, 2010 in Technology and Gadgets

Remote support or remote access for computers is a way of giving access to control a home or small business computer via the internet. With the help of modern remote support tools, it is simple to set up and use, and very secure. Remotely accessing computers can save time and money, and simplify your technology. Some remote support systems such as Crossloop and LogmeinFree are available for free. Windows XP Professional and some versions of Windows Vista provide a built in Remote Desktop function.

Remote support allows another person to take control of your computer to provide technical assistance, or provide coaching and training on how to do tasks on your computer.

How Can Remote Support Help You?

A couple of scenarios to explain how Remote Support can help:

Situation 1

Imagine Joe’s is a computer novice, and asks Ben a question over the phone. Joe explains the problem to Ben as well as he can, and in return Ben explains how to fix it. This can be difficult for both parties as neither can really see the problem, or how to fix it exactly. If they were using remote access, Ben can see Joe’s screen to understand the exact nature of the problem, and with Joe’s permission he can take control of the mouse & keyboard to rectify the problem while Joe watches.

Situation 2

Imagine you are visiting a customer and remembered that you have left your important files on your computer at home or in the office. Simply use a computer with internet connection at your customers office to access your home or office computer, and your problem is solved.

Requirements

To run Remote Access systems, the requirements are both computers must be connected to the internet and turned on. Broadband connections are highly recommended by Cairns Computer Help
Security

All Remote Support systems require permission from the target PC Administrator user, sometimes this is set for each connection session and sometimes it can be set once and re-used. This password can be changed any time by the computer owner only.

Cairns Computer Help uses and recommends Logmein Free and Crossloop for remote support. For users who are novices and who have not used this type of system before, Crossloop is the easiest to set up and install, for one or two sessions, however it does require both PCs be attended to establish the session. Logmein Free is slightly more complex to set up initially, but it can be managed by most computers users. It has the advantage of allowing unattended (but secure) access, meaning if you are on the road or at a customer premises you can easily access your target PC in another location.