© 2014 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
CORRESPONDENT
Most of us have had the need to control our home-based computer from
another computer, iPad or iPhone. First of all it’s an easy way to access files
stored there, or to make changes. Secondly it makes it possible to override a
remote computer for the purpose of assisting someone with technical support. So,
how’s it possible?
Over the years there’ve been several solutions including Apple’s Remote Desktop software. While these
solutions worked there always seemed to be limitations. TeamViewer GmbH, a
German company with North American headquarters in Tampa, Florida, has what
appears to be a reliable solution available in 30 languages. TeamViewer was originally
designed for commercial applications with a one-time starting cost of $750 or
more depending on the company’s size. TeamViewer also offers a free version for
private, non-commercial users, which we will be discussing in this article. Now
I’ve tried them all, but this one works and it’s fast and reliable! Here’s
how….
Simply download the TeamViewer software to your Mac, Windows, Linux,
iPad, iPhone or Android platform. Works on just about anything including cross
platform connections. Once you’ve registered your set to go. It’s that simple!
When you access the TeamViewer icon a window pops up. One side (ALLOW REMOTE CONTROL) shows your ID and
password which changes with each session, not to be confused with your personal
password that does not automatically change. The other side (CONTROL REMOTE COMPUTER) is for use by
the controlling device. You give the user of the device that wishes to control
you computer the newly generated ID and password. They in turn bring up the
same window display and enter the code information you supply in the right hand
side and then click on the connection box. The remote computer’s desktop will
appear on their desktop allowing full access to programs and files. Unlike other
software that I’ve tested, control and response is immediate. No delays, even
when accessing computers in far off lands.
(TIP: Many equipment and software tech
support agents have TeamViewer as one of their tools. Naturally, you must have
it too if you want their assistance in this way. Once you log out the
connection is lost forever thus eliminating any security concerns.)
The uses for remote access are endless. Perhaps you maintain a detailed
address book or have Quicken on your main computer and don’t want these files
stored on portable devices. Maybe you’re having trouble installing or using new
software and need an expert to fix and show you what to do. Having the
capability of controlling your computer from remote locations opens up many new
possibilities and it’s safe since you control access with unique ID’s and
passwords that change after every use.
GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★
Graphic credit: TeamViewer& Google
Image
Bob
Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent,
make any legality of use claims, or endorse any of the products he reviews. His
opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The
manufacturer generally supplies products at no cost for the articles and no
other compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to
products he feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus
the reason for many superior ratings. Some
information for this article may be gathered from various news sources
available to the author.
On
November 14th THE GADGETEER was featured on CRN TALK RADIO’S BARRY
FARBER SHOW, being interviewed about gadgets. This show will be repeated
several times and is also available in the archive section of CRN’s web site under:
11/14 – SEND NO MONEY. THIS SUCCESS SECRET IS FREE. FIND A NICHE NOBODYS
OCCUPYING. STUDY. WORK. AND MAKE THE NICHE YOURS:
http://bit.ly/1BDBudp
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