Accessing another computer

[Steve]

Hello,

Is there a program that I can get that will allow me to have access to
my son's computer? We live in different States and he frequently has
computer problems. He knows very little about computer operation so
it would be easier if he contacted me with a problem and I could access
his computer to try to fix his problems. Would pcAnywhere allow this
type of access? We are both using XP Home.

Thanks,

Steve

 

[Guest]

Why not use remote assistance?

 

[Shenan Stanley]

Is there a program that I can get that will allow me to have access to
my son's computer? We live in different States and he frequently has
computer problems. He knows very little about computer operation so
it would be easier if he contacted me with a problem and I could
access his computer to try to fix his problems. Would pcAnywhere
allow this type of access? We are both using XP Home.

HOW TO: Enable Remote Assistance in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/305608

Overview of Remote Assistance in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/300546

HOW TO: Obtain Remote Assistance Using Windows Messenger in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306556

 

[Frank]

Steve,
Since you didn't know about PC Anywhere, it's main function is what you
asked for, it would seem you do not do much research on your own?. You are
inviting disaster if you do not do your homework about remote desktop. You
see, if you can get in, well.......what about the hacker with tons of
knowledge and a mean streak. Do yourself a favor read up on all the
precautions first. This is only meant to help, not hurt!~
Frank L

 

[Steve]

Steve,
Since you didn't know about PC Anywhere, it's main function is what you
asked for, it would seem you do not do much research on your own?. You are
inviting disaster if you do not do your homework about remote desktop. You
see, if you can get in, well.......what about the hacker with tons of
knowledge and a mean streak. Do yourself a favor read up on all the
precautions first. This is only meant to help, not hurt!~
Frank L

Thanks for the replies and the caution.

Steve

 

[D.Currie]

Hello,

Is there a program that I can get that will allow me to have access to my
son's computer? We live in different States and he frequently has
computer problems. He knows very little about computer operation so
it would be easier if he contacted me with a problem and I could access
his computer to try to fix his problems. Would pcAnywhere allow this type
of access? We are both using XP Home.

Thanks,

Steve

Remote assistance will do that, but since he's out of state, he might be
better off cultivating someone local that he can trust. RA will only work if
his computer and his internet access are functional (and fast, or it's going
to be a long, painful process) so you won't be able to help him in every
situation. If he has someone local he can rely on, he can get help when the
computer isn't starting, he can't get online, or when there's a hardware
problem.

And, if he has to pay for help, he may be more interested in learning a bit
more about the computer and how to take care of it. With a little bit of
care and maintenance, he really shouldn't have all that many computer
problems that require outside assistance.