LogMeIn – Remote Computer Access
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Are you a road warrior? The family’s IT expert? How about a VA (virtual assistant)?
If you are any of the above — there are probably times you’ve wanted/needed to have access to someone else’s computer. How many times have you packed up for a business trip and thought you had all your critical files on your thumb drive only to discover one was missing! If you’re the IT troubleshooter for your parents, this program can’t be beat for being able to access their computer to install software or adjust settings from your desk!
There are several remote access programs out there. Expertcity’s GoToMyPC, Symantec’s pcAnywhere, Netopia’s Timbuktu and LapLink’s LapLink Gold. We’ll focus on LogMeIn, by RemotelyAnywhere. I first heard of these programs in my AssistU VA classes and did some research.
I decided to go with LogMeIn, www.logmein.com. They have a free version as well as a free 30-day trial Pro version along with a slew of other LogMeIn products to meet diverse needs. It took minutes to set up an account, download and install. Select a code for the computer you want to connect with and you’re set! There are security settings and other safeguard options available if you so wish. It’s working great – give it a go!
Hi,
I've tested myself some of the tools you mention, but I decided for yet another one called NTRconnect. It's easy to set, it has more features in its free version that LogMeIn (and just as LogMeIn, there's also a more complete version with more features). I love it, and in countless times it has been a life saver! http://www.ntrconnect.com
Hi,
I've always wanted to try this, but am worried about people hacking into my system. How safe is it to use one of these products?
Hello- if you go to https://secure.logmein.com/products/pro/faq.asp
you can look at the various Q&A about security for LogMeIn. Below is one of their answers about encryption.
You can set up the target computer so that the owner has to allow someone to access the computer each time instead of wide-open access.
As with anything, I think if someone wanted to hack in badly enough, they would probably be able to. Thanks for your comment.
Lynn
Can I control who will be able to remotely access my computer(s)?
While LogMeIn enables you or your Secondary Users to access your computer from anywhere, it also enables you to prevent unauthorized access. LogMeIn requires you to enter separate passwords to access both your LogMeIn account and your Target PC's Windows login.
LogMeIn also uses 128- to 256-bit encryption to protect your passwords and data and includes such active defense features as IP filtering and lockout.
[...] use the free and very useful Logmein to access my client’s computer remotely. I posted about this program a year ago. It’s been one of the most useful tools in my arsenal. I chose [...]