GoToMyPC : Remote Access to Your PC from Anywhere -- Secure PC Remote Access Software

Link: GoToMyPC : Remote Access to Your PC from Anywhere -- Secure PC Remote Access Software. As I have posted previously, I have a big screen LCD TV at my desk, which serves as my monitor. I dock my Dell D430 ultralight to it, as well as an external keyboard, several external hard drives, an external DVD ROM drive, an external speaker system, and, well, you get the drift. I have a similar setup at home; so my Dell serves as my principal computer. I carry it everywhere. However, the problem arose several years ago that I had my network server hooked up to a separate keyboard and monitor, that was seldom used, but took up space in the office. What to do? I tried everything, from complicated cable KVM switches to software. Finally, I hit upon the solution. I had been using GoToMyPc for some time to access the office server remotely. Why not use it while in the office? I am now installing Windows updates to my server, while I work on my ordinary work. Remote can be as close as your right hand, and as far away as the Internet reaches.

Comments

[Sam Glover]

Is there an advantage to GoToMyPC over the regular remote desktop access that comes with Windows, OSX, and ever Linux distro out there?

[rgeorges]

Sam:
Of course you could use the built-in services; however, Citrix makes the process drop dead simple, and provides back end encryption and security. A user created VPN would require the user to understand the management and use of VPNs. Most of us haven't the time or the energy to spend. GoToMYPC is a cheap, simple, secure solution.

[Sam Glover]

It sounds like it is pretty simple. I have never used it, so I don't know the deal.

I always thought the main difference was just that you didn't need to know the host computer's IP address. With Ubuntu, at least, it takes just a few clicks to get secure, encrypted remote access (System > Preferences > Remote Desktop). It looks easier than downloading and installing separate software.

Then again, I think I am the only lawyer who actually uses Ubuntu. Still, I remember it being dead simple to use Remote Desktop in Windows, as well.

[Adam P.]

I'll weigh in...

One disadvantage to GoToMyPC is the subscription. Last time I checked, the software isnt free.

That said, there are several products on the market that are free including WinVNC and the standard Remote Desktop. I have used WinVNC for several years and never had problems.