This article will try to point out how I believe you should/could access a remote PC. The main factors are Safe and Easy. I will also introduce a great service that allows you complete control from anywhere (where there’s an Internet connection anyway) in the world.
When managing servers and various hosting accounts over the Internet (whatever network) you would normally connect using FTP, SFTP, SCP, or something similar. My favourite apps are FileZilla and WinSCP. But what if you need to install or update something that would require you actually be at “the other end”. For instance if you are installing new software, or doing other stuff that would require you to look at the computer screen, reboot, system maintenance etc.
Some people (a lot actually) uses Microsoft’s built in “Remote Desktop”, which is like leaving your house with the front door wide open while you go on holiday. Since I’m in need of such a service and are a bit uncomfortable with strangers going through my things I’m currently using LogMeIn Pro instead. All you need to do is install the software on the target PC (the PC you will like to control remotely) and the rest is done through any browser.
Currently the target PC needs to run Windows, but in my case that’s just fine. The remote PC can run on almost anything, and you can even use your PDA to access and control. Using the https protocol and 256-bit SSL encryption anchors powerful security.
While connected you’re given numerous viewing options, and if you wish you can actually replace your own desktop with the target PC, only leaving a few control menus still visible. Mouse and keyboard actions are captured real-time, and with any decent broadband connection you can hardly notice any delay whatsoever.
The guys at LogMeIn also have a lot of other cool stuff, so you might want to check out the rest of their product line.
Your biggest enemies now are hardware failures and/or power breaks. Those will probably require somebody showing up regardlessly, unless you have some God given powers I’m not aware of.
About Author
Hi Thomas,
Great article. I’ve found another great piece of remote control software that is fantastic with security. It’s called Proxy Pro 6 by Proxy Networks. Unlike, LogMeIn Pro it is specifically, and only, made for enterprise-level customers. That means that their security is second to none. They are more expensive, but in my opinion, well worth it. They have handy features too.