LogMeIn is a software company that has been producing products to give you remote access to your computers. LogMeIn Pro is the paid for version of their software, but you can give it a trial on LogMeIn Free, and get a flavour of what to expect. The Pro version gives you extra features such as transfer files, print remotely, and access other computers in HD. You can log into your computer using browsers on other PCs, or through apps via Apple devices.
HD? Access computers in HD?
What this means is that you get to use the full resolution of the computer you are trying to access. If you have used similar software in the past, you will have noticed that often colour detail is lost, resolution suffers, and mostly the display is just not up to speed. However, I got a bit excited and tried to watch a film through this. The sound was smooth, but the video was a bit choppy. LogMeIn claim that you should be able to watch and stream stuff, so it could well be my computer, iPad, or just the internet connection. However, even so, what I saw was very impressive with all these variables in the mix.
But I really want to get some work done!
Sorry for being a bit distracted. HD was probably the highlight, having played with lots and lots of remote desktop solutions in the past.
So, how do I set this up?
You will, of course, need a running internet connection, and you will need to install the LogMeIn app on the computer you want access to. You will also need your computer to be running at the time you want access. Simple things, but worth mentioning nonetheless. Once installed, enter your details, and that is pretty much all you need to do.
And how do I access my computer then?
Through a browser, or through the iPhone/iPad app. Both work seamlessly, and all you need to do is login, and it will tell you about the computers associated with your account. Click on it, and you will (if you wish to set it up) enter a password, and you will be in. The LogMeIn window actually allows you to go through multiple screens as well, so if you have 2 or more monitor connected, you will still have access to them all, though obviously the resolution of your viewing device needs to be good enough. After that, you do what you want through the browser window, and all is good. Similar experience can be had through the iPad. You can do this through your iPhone as well, but of course, the bigger the screen, the better the performance.
Screen Lock
Remote Access through Windows normally brings an automatic locking of the computer in the play. This, however, doesn’t. So if you ever see a ghost operating the cursor, or typing away at a computer, this software is probably doing its magic.
File sharing and printing
One of the most important features available is the ability to share files across different devices. Mostly when you want to remotely login and sort things out, a presentation, a spreadsheet, or a document is at stake. This makes that process as easy as a simple copy and paste. You can also print files on your remote computer to whatever printer it is connected to.
Managing computers, troubleshooting
One of the biggest advantages of this is that you can manage various aspects of the computer you have logged into. This includes items such as automating software installation, and managing Windows updates, etc. Even better is the fact that you can share your screen remotely with a friend, colleague, or your IT guy. This means that this can be used to train, collaborate or just troubleshoot items on your computer, without anybody else having to install anything.
Buying information
So, how much does this cost? You buy this in form of annual subscriptions, and it costs $69.95/year. You can also buy it in the form of bundles, and save various amounts according to your number of computers. A monthly subscription is also available, and it will cost you $14.99 per computer per month. Bundle packages are also available on this.
Verdict
A complete solution that ticks pretty much all the boxes when it comes to remote login requirements. You get access in full HD, you can share and print files, and you can share screens with others. All this with no extra software required on other PCs, and full accessibility through the likes of phones and tablets.