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.
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.
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