Best option for web-based remote access to client computers?

Question

I saw a similar question on here, but I'm looking to be a bit more specific...

I'm in need of a web-based remote access solution that will allow me to log-in to clients' computers from my office. I run Linux, and various clients of mine run Windows and Mac OS X.

Is there a cheap/free solution that is:

• Browser based (no client installation, although a browser plugin/control is OK)
• Cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux)
• Easy enough that I can talk the most computer-idiot client though initiating a session over the phone.

I've seen Fog Creek and LogMeIn mentioned on here, but they each have their own weaknesses. I've been using TechInline.com (through VMWare), but they are IE only.

What have you used, and what do you like about it that makes it stand out to you?

Thank you for your suggestions, Seth

Answer 1

I use TeamViewer - which is free for non-commercial use - for both my personal (family) support incidents, and in one of my day jobs for support calls/remote installations.

It's cross-platform (the Win client used to work with Darwine, so may do with Wine, too). I think it's pricey for commercial use - but my employer has to worry about that.

Answer 2

VNC one click is a version of the free VNC remote desktop tool (as used by copilot) but is wrapped to make an outgoing connection to a specific machine in your network.
The customer runs it and it allows you control of their desktop - unlike remote desktop, they can see what you are doing and take control.
Since they are making the outgoing call there are no problems with their firewall.
We use it for remote support - you can also brand it with your own logo and message text.

Answer 3

I have used two software in the past, and I have found both to be very useful:

1. TeamViewer - You get a "permanent" ID (unless you uninstall, or settings get lost) in the format of 555 555 555, and a dynamic password which is automatically generated after each session finishes (you can set it not to do that, or to keep the dynamic password AND a static password you have defined. You can also create a TeamViewer account to keep track of users, and enable quick-login (bypass password.) It is free for PERSONAL uses only. If you want to use it for commercial use, you will have to buy a license.

2. join.me - I have used this very little in the past, but it is also a neat tool. It is through LogMeIn, but is much simpler. To create a screenshare, just hit "share", which will download a VERY small .exe. You then give a user your ID or quick join link (both of which can easily be copied to your clipboard), they paste it into the Join box on join.me or their URL bar (if you gave them the link), and they are connected without a download required. It's that simple.

Both support a quick login feature without download (join.me has only a non-downloadable client,) which can be found at the join.me main page, or if you login to TeamViewer (top right on their web page.)

Both support text chat and file transfers.

Both support a method which does not require forwarding of ports, and this method is utilized by default.

Answer 4

I have no idea if these fit your requirements but you I've used both WebEx and goto meeting. I've really liked goto Meeting's new changes especially for organizing meetings, but you can use it for doing support.

WebEx is from Cisco: http://webex.com/

Goto Meeting is from Citrix: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/?Portal=gotomeeting.com

Answer 5

I would suggest logmein.com because it gets through most firewalls except if it is explicitly blocked. If you don't have IE, it uses a java applet. It also now works on macs Did I mention it was free? I used it for most of college and was definitely a help with both printing stuff and copying files. Highly recommended.

Answer 6

For remote access, Proxy Networks should be added to this list. I've used this for my medium sized business for over 2 years and never had one complaint.