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Top Internet Remote Access Software

By , About.com Guide

These remote access software programs supports connecting to a PC on your home network from outside. Remote access software allows you to retrieve personal data or assist family members with network problems when not physically at home.

Many different remote access software products exist, but not all are equally fast, reliable, and secure. The products listed below generally offer a good combination of features, performance and security support.

1. Top VNC Free Software

Virtual Network Computing (VNC) technology enables sharing a copy of one computer's screen display with another computer over a network connection. Various VNC client and server packages exist, based on common network protocols, supporting different platforms.

2. Symantec pcAnywhere

pcAnywhere from Symantec has been a perennial leading remote access software solution. The product includes first-time connection wizards, bandwidth auto detection, and other advanced features. pcAnywhere uses a client-server model meaning that remote access software must be installed on any computers either making or receiving remote connections.
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3. GoToMyPC

GoToMyPC is Web-based remote access software. Unlike other products in this space, GoToMyPC requires setup only of those computers needing to receive incoming remote access requests. After registering those computers, remote connections are initiated via your Web browser. GoToMyPC strives to be more firewall-friendly than other products through its use of Web protocols.

4. LogMeIn Free and Pro

In addition to several commercial offerings, LogMeIn.com offers a free remote access system for personal use. LogMeIn Free supports desktop remote control that works across firewalls. Upgrade to the Pro version to get remote file transfer and printing capabilities.

5. Laplink Gold 2008

Laplink offers another proven commercial software product in this category. Laplink Gold runs exclusively on Windows 98 or newer computers (both client and server). Laplink also sells a Web-based Everywhere product.
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(Last updated: Feb-2009)

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