Computers and Technology

As a Computer Technician, I have had many opportunities to help people solve their computer issues. The most important tool in my disposal has always been Remote Computer Access. With Remote Computer Access, you, the end user, can allow someone else with the knowledge to fix your problem have access and even control over your system! Sounds a little intimidating, right? Here are a few reasons why you should give this relatively mature technology a try:

1. Professionals do it everyday

In large companies with hundreds or even thousands of employees, Remote Computer Access (RAC for short) allows IT professionals to handle requests for service or help without having to go to that user's specific location. There is a substantial savings to be had in terms of man hours from the efficiency of RAC.

2. Get the help you need

If you have ever tried to explain to an auto mechanic about the sounds your car is making and have been met with a blank stare, you can understand how difficult it can be to describe what may be happening with your computer. It's not working correctly, but why? With RAC, you can let a professional diagnose and fix the problem for you. It is never a good idea to change or alter any settings that you are not familiar with, and allowing someone who is familiar with Computer problems look at the issue is usually the best course of action.

3. You are in total control

While you can let your RAC helper walk you through or even control your Computer, you can always end the session early by hitting the Esc key. If you do allow your RAC helper control over your system, you are able to see every mouse click and keystroke on the screen so if anything begins to make you uncomfortable, you can end the session immediately.

4. You can use it for help and productivity

There are many services that allow you to access your computer remotely from any other computer in the world. In these instances, if you wanted to access your computer at work from your computer at home, you would install a small program on both machines, leave the computer at work running, and the program that you installed would allow you to access your work computer's desktop remotely and manipulate it as if you were sitting right in front of it.

5. You probably already have it

RAC is included with Windows XP and Vista, and is accessible via the start menu, under the help and support section. You can then send a request for help to anyone with an email address. They simply click on the link in your email, and then you will be greeted with a message that they have either accepted or declined the invitation. From there, it is up to you as to whether or not you choose to allow your Remote Computer Assistance helper total control, or simply choose to be directed and fix the issue with assistance.

No matter your level of computer knowledge, skill, or experience, virtually all computer users will run into trouble at one time or another. What matters is having the right tools at your disposal to deal with that trouble, and not making more trouble for yourself in the process!

By using Remote Computer access, you can allow a professional or a trusted friend, have access to your system and help you keep it running well now and in the future.

Considering the sensitive data that you keep on your computer, you certainly don't want to unknowingly do something that would damage or delete anything. Try RAC, it is a very mature and stable technology that IT professionals rely on every day. If you are likely using an operating system that included this feature, like Windows XP or Vista, you can at least have the peace of mind that help is little more than a click away.

If you are the type that is away from the office more than you would like, there are tools available to allow you to keep the same level of productivity that you would have in the office from any remote location in the world! Most importantly though, if you are requesting help, you can control the level of access that your helper has over your system. If you drop it off at a "repair shop" you never know who is doing what or taking what from your machine. Happy Computing!