It’s convenient for impromptu support in that all you need on the controlling PC is a Web browser. is a meeting service (free and pay) from LogMeIn that also provides remote control. Windows Remote Desktop works great once you’ve set it up, but if you want to control multiple PCs on a regular basis, the next option might be better for you. You can edit the Registry to allow control of more than one PC by adding more ports, but that’s a very techie task. Hence, although all versions of Windows (Basic, Home, and so on) can establish a Remote Desktop connection and control a PC, only the Professional, Business, and Ultimate versions of Windows can be controlled.Īs most office computers are one among many on a network, you need to have the office router tweaked to forward a port (3389) to the PC you want to control.

The basic concept behind Windows Remote Desktop is to let users control their office computer remotely so that they can work from home. There’s even Microsoft Remote Desktop for the Mac, so you can remotely access your more artistic acquaintances’ Apple products.ĭon’t underestimate the power of Windows’ built-in remote-connectivity tool. Although Windows Remote Desktop doesn’t support true screen-sharing (the screen of the controlled computer goes black instead of staying live) the way services such as and TeamViewer do, this built-in tool is free and fast, and it allows complete remote control over PCs.

Teamviewer webbased