Remote access software is a vital tool for many industries, especially those where it's essential to access computer files from anywhere. Software for remote access is the most common way to create a link between where you are and where your files are, but there are also other methods to access PCs remotely. These include online access and remote access through other devices, such as a phone or PDA. Remote access software for PC applications is usually the most cost-effective solution.

The pricing and costs of remote access software varies depending on the company you use to purchase your software from, but you will usually end up paying between $40 to $100. The price is usually based on additional features, such as:

1. Using remote access software for remote control help desk solutions.

2. The ability to access more than one computer with the same program.

3. Managing whole networks via remote computer access.

Action Steps
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Use limited trial versions and subscription services for remote access software

Most software companies will allow you to try their product for 15 to 30 days, or access a free version with limited features indefinitely. If you just need basic features, using a limited free version is the way to go. Subscription services are also a savvy way to shop for software because you can usually cancel at any time.

I recommend: Radmin offers a 30 free trial of their remote access server software. The software with a standard license around $50, but Radmin also offers many free network utilities that can work with or without the full version of the program. BeInSync offers its remote access products through monthly subscriptions, or you can pay for a whole year at a time.

Consider a web-based remote access system

The most inexpensive option for remote access systems is to use a web-based company. These companies guarantee the same safety and security as other types of remote access software, but is much more convenient when you are on the go.

I recommend: GoToMyPC offers a free and a paid version of this web-based system to access and manage remote computers. With the paid version, you can add more than one computer to access from your account and free upgrades whenever they come out with new software. 4RemoteSupport.com is another web-based remote access company that lets you test out the program. It offers on-demand remote access services, which is cheaper than yearly subscriptions if you only use the service occasionally.

Find software from remote access software suppliers that offer free versions

If you are struggling to come up with the extra money to find remote desktop software solutions, there are completely free versions of remote access software on the Internet. These must be used with caution because not all suppliers of free software are legitimate. As with any download from the Internet, run a virus scan before using the program to find spyware. Free software does not always offer the features you need, such as being able to work with multiple computers.

I recommend: The free version of LogMeIn is perfect for small businesses on the go, if you need to quickly access your PC to grab files or for any type of IT support. UltraVNC is a program tailored for those who use remote access for elearning, IT support and other help desk issues.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you use remote access software on computer in the office, make sure your employees are aware of it so they don't store personal information on company computers.

How many times have you needed to access a picture, document or program on your computer only to find that you can't because you're out of the office?

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:

1. Choose a service that meets your cost and operating requirements.
2. Download and install the required software (usually one or two small programs).
3. Connect to your computer from anywhere.

Action Steps
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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.

Remote access server software comes in handy for many issues. Some companies use it as a way to access important files when employees are out of the office or on the road. Other companies use the software to access and manage remote computers to create an e-learning environment.

The most useful application of remote computer access is for those in tech support. Using remote access software and remote control software will drastically cut the time needed to help customers with their tech support issues.

No matter what industry you are a part of, if you need remote desktop software solutions for your business, you will have to find the program that best fits your needs. Once you have found the right program, you must also train yourself and employees on how to use it. You can do this by any of the following means:

1. Call the tech support line for any questions.

2. Find walkthroughs or tutorials on the Internet.

3. Search message boards for software for remote access topics.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Provide a remote access system for employees who travel

If you work in an industry where travel is a necessary part of the job, provide all employees with the option to have remote access from their work computer to any other computer or mobile device they may be traveling with. This will help employees access the important files and documents they need, wherever they go.

I recommend: The remote access services from Access Remote PC are perfect for businesses that need to share resources or provide resources for those who work mostly out of the office. The SSL VPN 200 from SonicWall lets you connect up to 50 PCs to the remote access service.

Allow employees to access PCs remotely from home

Many office employees feel more comfortable working at home when they need to meet deadlines or create presentations for the next business meeting. To accommodate this process, supply your employees with remote access software so they can access their work files from their home office.

I recommend: Personal Edition software from Real VNC is perfect for individuals that need to access one computer from another one, such as a home computer. Or, it can be implemented is small business situations. Symantec's pcAnywhere is remote access software for home and office use.

Choose a remote access software application that works with multiple PC units

To allow all employees to access their work computers or any shared files on the company server, choose a software program that allows for connections to mupltiple PCs and servers. This will let employees access all the necessary areas to find what they are looking for.

I recommend: Webex from Cisco is designed for helpdesk applications, so this type of software can work with multiple computers that need remote access for grabbing files or attending to tech support issues. SAIC has remote access software that provides links to multiple computers and servers for larger industries.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  To ensure you're making the most of remote access software, look carefully at online demos or use free trials for the specific program. If the program has a lot of unnecessary features, find a program that offers fewer features for less money.

Remote access software allows a person to work on or control computers via an Internet connection. This software makes the technology department of any business much more efficient. However, there can be security issues with the software because of the access it provides. In choosing the right vendor from which to purchase the software, you'll need to make certain that you understand key terms to make the correct decision for your company.

Action Steps
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Firewall

A firewall is the primary technological method to keep computers and their networks safe from intruders. When using remote access software, you'll need to alter the firewall settings so that the platform will operate correctly.

I recommend: Examine the firewall definition available at PC Magazine for a better understanding of the term.

Virtual private network (VPN)

A virtual private network is the means by which remote access software gains access to computers outside the Local Area Network. If the remote access software doesn't have a VPN feature, it won't allow you access to any of the network computers.

I recommend: Study the virtual private network information from Tech Terms.

Secure socket layers

Secure socket layers refers to the feature in most remote access software that helps keep the information you transfer secure. Understand that this feature isn't foolproof and you'll need to be sure the remote access software provides other security measures like a VPN and jump technology security.

I recommend: Review the secure socket layer resource at the Business Dictionary.

Jump technology security

Jump technology security provides an additional layer of security for remote access software. Jump technology also allows for greater audit controls and administration capabilities.

I recommend: Assess the Jump technology tutorial available from the Bomgar Corporation.

Data compression

Data compression is the technology that enables remote access software to operate efficiently. As the name suggests, it compresses the data you're transferring to allow the information to flow in an effective manner.

I recommend: Evaluate the data compression tutorial by Cisco Systems to understand the process.

Network administrator

The person most likely responsible for the installation and management of the remote access software is the network administrator. The network administrator manages the security and efficiency of your business network.

I recommend: Take a look at the network administrator information at ZDnet.