We use remote desktop software to help clients on a regular basis. This means we remotely access other people’s computers through our Mac in our office. It’s a quick way to either solve somebody’s Mac problem from afar, ASAP, or diagnose an issue so I can send the proper Expert to solve it in person. It’s a bit uncanny the first time someone remotely accesses your computer–you see the mouse moving, windows opening up and closing, text appearing, and you’re not doing any of it!

We often get asked, “Isn’t it a security risk?” No, it’s not dangerous. It only allows us to access your computer, nobody else.

As for software, there are a few options. We often use Go To Meeting because it works on every computer, with no hassles. We also use Apple Remote Desktop because it has a lot of special Mac-only features.

There used to be a huge online chart that provided an overview of all the remote access software out there, along with capabilities for each one, at RemoteDesktopMac.com. Unfortunately that chart no longer exists–let us know if you find another one!