Last week we looked at Free email accounts and concluded you get what you pay for… This week, let’s talk about some Free remote access applications that seem to do the same as the “pay as you go” application – GoToMyPC – and in some instances, even more.
GoToMyPC
Install GoToMyPC on your work PC, and no matter how far you are from the office, access to your essential apps and files is as close as the nearest Web browser. It’s simple to set up, and it offers 128-bit encryption to keep both machines secure.
The monthly fee makes it expensive to use over time, however, and the host software won’t run on a Mac. One of these free alternatives is worth a try. The only thing you risk losing is a recurring monthly charge to your credit card.
LogMeIn Free
Why We Like It.
• Setup and ease of use rival the pay for version of GoToMyPC
• Access to all files and programs via Web browser
• 256-bit encryption
LogMeIn Free is a boon for PC users looking to access a single PC while they’re out of the office or away from home. While it won’t actually let you transfer files, you can e-mail them via the host PC or use a free file-sharing service to transfer large files.
Upload the file from your host PC to the file-sharing site, click a link on the PC you’re using, and files up to 500MB will download to the computer you’re currently using. An OS X version is available for Mac users. Install it on an OS X machine, and you’ll be able to control your Mac from the Web even if you’re on a PC and the built-in 256-bit encryption puts GoToMyPC to shame.
TeamViewer
Why We Like It:
• Speedy and simple file transfers
• 256-bit encryption
TeamViewer lets users access their desktops remotely, run programs, and transfer files between computers. For private, noncommercial use, it’s 100 percent free and secures sessions with 256-bit encryption. While you will have to launch a program to gain access to your PC remotely, the file is available from the front page of the TeamViewer site; it’s less than 2MB and runs as a simple executable, so there’s nothing to install. This app is also available in an OS X-friendly version for Mac users.
If you’re looking for a free file-sharing application, sign up at Driveway.com – These folks provide up to 2 GB of storage with their Free account which makes transferring files between computers a snap.
http://www.driveway.com
Hi David,
Thought you’d like to check out Mikogo for free desktop sharing and remote support. Mikogo is free for both businesses and private users and allows you to share screens and access remote keyboard/mouse control. Very easy and secure to use: 256bit AES encryption.
You can invite up to 10 people to view your screen, so it’s great for online meetings and presentations, as well as remote support. Features include desktop sharing, switch presenter, remote control, file transfer, whiteboard, recording, scheduler, application selection, and more.
Drop by our website and give it a go: http://www.mikogo.com
Regards,
Andrew Donnelly
The Mikogo Team
http://twitter.com/Mikogo