You'll be happy to know that this is a common business problem with established solutions. You no longer need physical access to your computer to use every program and view every document. In fact, you can use your computer remotely in exactly the same way you would if you were sitting at it in person. Think of remote computing as a window to your computer from anywhere.
There are three steps to connecting to your computers from anywhere:
- Choose a service that meets your cost and operating requirements.
- Download and install the required software (usually one or two small programs).
- Connect to your computer from anywhere.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Connect through a Web-based service
Web-based services are quick, easy and usually billed monthly starting as low as $9.95. Most offer free trials. Download and install their software onto the computer you wish to access (your target computer) and voila! The computer you are using to access your target computer does not need any special software — just a standard Web browser. No technical mumbo jumbo. Simple as that.I recommend: GoToMyPC is a big name in this business. They offer individual, small business and corporate services as well as free trials. LogMeIn and MyWebExpc are similar services that tout the security they provide, although all three provide standard encryption and security.
Connect through a software-based service
These software solutions are identical to their Web-based cousins, except that you need a small software program running on both the computer you wish to access remotely and the computer you are using to access it. Arguably, these services aren't as quick of a solution because you will need to download software first, while a Web-based solution only requires a browser.I recommend: RealVNC is one of the best known solutions in this category (VNC stands for virtual network connection) and it's supported for PC, Mac and Linux platforms.
Connect through a virtual private network (VPN)
Virtual private networks (VPNs) are best suited for middle to large sized companies which have a dedicated information technology (IT) support team. They work by simulating a local network (or intranet) by using the public internet and secure communications. A VPN is the best solution for connecting everyone in a company together, as if they were in the same office building, even if people are working remotely from anywhere in the world.I recommend: It's best to get the help from your IT team on this.To learn more about VPNs see Howstuffworks.com.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Try using one of the free web-based services first. These are easy to use and often free. They will let you get a feel for what remote access computing can do for you.
- Only resort to a VPN if you have dedicated individuals to support your VPN and a distinct need to allow a large amount of people full interconnectivity.
- A VPN is probably the best way to allow many people to share the same documents.
the Remote Access Software page at Business.com
IBM LotusLive Engage
Provide Remote Support with Ease for Your Business. Explore IBM's Suite of Online Collaboration Tools with a No Cost Trial.
30-Day Trial
www.LotusLive.com
Provide Remote Support with Ease for Your Business. Explore IBM's Suite of Online Collaboration Tools with a No Cost Trial.
30-Day Trial
www.LotusLive.com
Microsoft® System Center - Free Trial
Automate Deployment, Consolidate & Virtualize Servers, & More. Download Today!
Try It Out | Read White Paper | Learn More | Resources
Microsoft.com/SystemCenter
Automate Deployment, Consolidate & Virtualize Servers, & More. Download Today!
Try It Out | Read White Paper | Learn More | Resources
Microsoft.com/SystemCenter
Remote Access Software Directory
Compare remote access software using Capterra's free, comprehensive directory.
Capterra.com
Compare remote access software using Capterra's free, comprehensive directory.
Capterra.com
Remote Access Software Resources
Find Remote Access Software to access your PC anywhere. Search listings and reviews of retailers, specialists and services in your local area.
JustClickLocal.com
Find Remote Access Software to access your PC anywhere. Search listings and reviews of retailers, specialists and services in your local area.
JustClickLocal.com
Free B2B search marketing whitepaper, B2B Search Marketing Strategy Guide: Advice From the Pros.
