Remote Desktop Services
There are many options out there for users who require remote access to a computer. By “remote access” I’m not just talking access to files from another computer, we’re talking complete access to the visual desktop via a non-local device. There are a number of ways to accomplish remote desktop access including VNC, RDP, ARD which are all protocols built into many different software applications. Many of these softwares require a significant amount of technical expertise, and in many cases, special hardware, to begin using. For common users, the best option might be a remote desktop web service. I will briefly outline some of the features of these services, as well as explain some of their pros and cons.
GoToMyPC.com VS. LogMeIn
GoToMyPC and LogMeIn are both web services offering remote desktop access. Both allow you to access your other computer from anywhere as long as both machines are on and connected to the internet. With both services, both computers must also have the software installed and enabled.
The following is a simple matrix of some common features. From personal experience, Logmein is a great service. The free version has all the features common users would ever need. You need to go Pro to get drag-n-dropping of files from one computer to another, file transfer, remote printing or file sharing. It is easy to get around needing to do these things and is definitely worth the savings to just stay with the free version.
| LogMeIn | GoToMyPC | |
|---|---|---|
| Free Version | Yes | 30-day Trial |
| Pro Version | $6/mo/computer | $20/mo or $15/computer |
| Remote Computers | Unlimited | 1 |
| Mac | Yes | Yes |
| PC | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | No | No |
| iPhone App | Yes (with Pro version) | No |
I can’t say about the GoToMyPC service, but Logmein has a nice interface and great features. Their web portal has a very convenient layout which shows all the computers you have on your account.
January 29th, 2010 on 10:34 am
Hallo Fenix,
have you ever used TeamViewer? The software can be used for remote support, desktop sharing, online presentation, file transfer or home office. It is also free for private use. For more information you can check our website http://www.teamviewer.com or feel free to contact me.
Cheers,
Inga
TeamViewer GmbH
February 13th, 2010 on 6:29 am
Well, disregarding services (because I hate services that aren’t related to Google… because I’ve sold my soul to Google), you should check out NoMachine – http://nomachine.com/
It operates over port 22 and basically sets up SSH to forward X, but it does serious compression so it’s quite fast (Much faster than “ssh -XC ” on that note). I believe there’s a server for Windows as well, although I’ve no clue if it’s free or not… I just use rdesktop for that (and join my VPN if need be).
February 13th, 2010 on 6:33 am
Also on that note, I mention NoMachine because I’m not a fan of these services as I prefer a level of security that I’m completely in control of.
Between requiring a key along side of a password, I feel moar better.