Remote Access Software

[techfuzz]

I need to be able to remotely connect to my parent's computer whenever they have a computer problem. It's got to be easy for them to load/use whenever I need to connect. Something free/open source would be preferable.p

I've heard of, but haven't used something called LogMeIn. It sounds like what I'm looking for, but is it?

What other software would you recommend I look at?

techfuzz

 

[EagleKeeper]

You have the Windows Remote desktop that is built in.

Enable it on your parents system and you just log on using the remote esktop connection setup on your box.

 

[techfuzz]

Nope, that'll be too difficult for them to setup because it requires adjusting the router/firewall/NAT to allow RDP through. They can't do that. Add to that the IP address issue and it's a real nightmare. I need something easier like they go to a website or something just as easy as that.

techfuzz

 

[abaez]

Just install logmein on their PC and you'll be able to control it anytime. They don't need to do anything once it's installed and since it's web-based there is no firewall setup or anything. I've been using it for awhile now and it's great.

 

[Alienwho]

Logmein for browser based. Teamviewer for non browser.

 

[ChAoTiCpInOy]

Logmein is better because you don't need to configure any settings and once it's there it's there.

 

[MadAmos]

I use logmein free for just what you describe works like a charm and much faster than the built in Windows version. I use it on both XP and vista machines and I can do 99% of what I could do sitting at the remote box. You also don't have to install any thing on you system just the remotes.

 

[flexy]

logmein seems to have a 120min limit...as well it is only a 30 day trial. You could've added that.

 

[MadAmos]

logmein free doesn't expire I have been using it for over 1 year I have never experienced a time limit when I have used it but most of the time I only need it for 1/2 hour or so. When you first download it it will install the 30 day full trial but it can be converted to the free version through your account panel under subscriptions.

 

[flexy]

oh ok..i just noticed that. Not bad. The free version has the "remote control" too, so that's all what i need. Speed is decent even.

 

[Atheus]

Originally posted by: abaez
They don't need to do anything once it's installed and since it's web-based there is no firewall setup or anything.

No firewall setup? So, what, it maintins an outgoing connection permanently with logmein.com? Sounds like a bit of a security hole.

 

[QueBert]

MS Live messenger works, I've had people who know nothing about PC's really create a LIVE account. In the messenger program there's an option to share my desktop. Don't have to worry about IP addresses or any settings, for me any ways it's just always worked. the easiest way I've found when the person on the other end isn't computer literate.

 

[SolMiester]

I think there is another product like logmein called crossloop......

 

[abaez]

Originally posted by: Atheus

Originally posted by: abaez
They don't need to do anything once it's installed and since it's web-based there is no firewall setup or anything.

No firewall setup? So, what, it maintins an outgoing connection permanently with logmein.com? Sounds like a bit of a security hole.

I don't know what it does. Once you install on the computer you want to control it simply accepts the connection. It's all encrypted 256 bit and all that jazz as well.