You can also typically (but not always) send out an invitation to someone else that lets them access your machine.Īlmost all of these programs let you perform other tricks like copying files back and forth between the machine you're really sitting in front of (the "local" machine) and the remote one, or copying text or graphics to the clipboard on one machine and pasting it on the other. This gives you access to your own desktop at home or at the office while traveling with your laptop. You connect to the remote machine using the remote access app, and then-until you click the mouse outside the remote access window-everything you type and every move you make with the mouse gets sent to the remote machine. To those unfamiliar with the term, remote access software lets you run a computer located across the room or across the country as if you were sitting in front of its keyboard and screen. Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions. ( See how we test everything we review (Opens in a new window).)
Unlike TeamViewer and VNC Connect, LogMeIn has no free version, but you can try out any LogMeIn plan free for 14 days. There are also pricier Central versions of the software, with features like remote file searches, remote deletions, antivirus, as well a Rescue version for support technicians and IT management, with options that include the ability to reboot a remote machine and automatically reconnect when it starts up again. LogMeIn comes in three distinct flavors: a Pro plan, which I tested, available for up to two computers ($249.99 per year), scaling up to five computers for $599.99 per year, and a variety of other plans topping out at 50 computers for $4,999.99 per year. It's an excellent choice for anyone who needs access to a remote computer, whether it's your own desktop at home when you're on the road or that of a distant tech-challenged relative who needs technical support. LogMeIn is a smooth-running, professional-level remote access app for Windows and macOS PCs that also offers flexible file-sharing features, including a cloud-storage feature not available with similar services we've reviewed. How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication.How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.
How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.