Internet computer control. Free programs for remote control of computers

  • 20.10.2019

Ever since my work as a laboratory assistant in the information center, I have learned one important truth: the less you work, the better you work. Any human activity can be improved and even the most hated work can be made enjoyable. Imagine for a moment that you have one computer lab at your disposal. Its maintenance takes relatively little time. All the problems that have arisen can be eliminated on the spot simply by going to the appropriate computer.

But one fine day, the state of technology increases dramatically from the already familiar fifteen PCs in your class to hundreds of computers scattered across several buildings. And now everyone, the newly minted owner of a miracle box under his desk, is calling with the question “how to align the tablet in Excel?”. After talking with such an individual for a couple of minutes and realizing that you need help, you trudge up the stairs to the poor man's office. Most likely, the first time there will be waiting not only for a sign that has moved out on the monitor screen, but also for a kilo of gingerbread with an invigorating mug of tea. But soon the gingerbread will not be able to sweeten the constant running around, and the calls will cause an involuntary sigh. In such a situation, there are only two options. Find a person who will run for you or come up with a way to deal with the egregious computer illiteracy of employees, while remaining within the walls of their office.

Download Radmin Server and Viewer

Remote Administrator is one of the remote PC administration programs. Such softins work on the already familiar client-server technology. The product is Russian-made and is distributed conditionally free of charge. That is, we have the opportunity to download the full version without limiting functionality, which will work for 30 days. Then it should be purchased. You can also use torrents. In their open spaces, a repack from Alker will definitely come across, it works as stably as the licensed version. And I, perhaps, within the framework of this material, will use the official trial version.

Step 1. To get started, go to the site and click the big green button "Download 30-day trial".

Step 2 Then on the page that opens, click "Download Server + Viewer" in one archive.

Step 3 After the download is complete, the installation files from the archive will be unpacked into a separate folder for convenience.

Installing and configuring Radmin Server

First, let's deal with the server part of the program. It is its installation on client PCs that allows us to manage them remotely.

Step 1. On the computer we are going to manage, run the rserv35ru.msi file and click "Next" in the first installation window.

Step 2 We carefully read the license agreement, accept it and click "Next".

Step 3 And finally, the cherished "Install" button. Click on it and wait for the installation process to complete. During this process, the screen may flicker intermittently. Do not be afraid, this is normal, drivers for video capture are just being installed.

Step 4 After the installation is completed, we will not uncheck the box "Configure user access rights". Click "Finish" and go directly to the program settings.

Step 5 In the new window, select "Startup mode" and set the value to "Automatic". This is necessary so that the program starts itself, at the moment the operating system is turned on.

Step 6 Then go to "Settings" and in the first tab "General settings" do not change anything. We just remember the port that is set by the program by default. We'll need it soon.

Step 7 In the "Miscellaneous" tab, check the box "Load Mirror Driver at startup". This is necessary so that the screen of the remote computer does not blink every time we connect and the user does not know about our presence. A very useful feature for those who like to watch employees and do not want unnecessary suspicions on their part.

Step 8 Finished with the settings. Now let's move on to changing permissions. To do this, in the main menu, click "Permissions" and repeat the command in the window that opens.

Step 9 Until users are created, you cannot connect to this computer. In order to create users, click "Add" and enter the name under which we will log into the computer. As an example, I'll create an "admin" user.

Step 10 Now we need to give our user certain rights. And since this is an admin, we will give him full access to the remote computer. Click "OK" in this and the next window.

Step 11 If you purchased the program from the developers or downloaded it from a torrent, then it will have another interesting feature. Namely, the "Advanced" button, which allows you to configure the hiding of the tray icon. When there is no tray icon, the user may not even know that this product is installed on the computer.

Step 12 This was the last step in configuring Radmin Server. Now we will restart the computer for our settings to take effect. After the reboot, go to "START-Control Panel-Network and Sharing Center-Change adapter settings" and right-click on the adapter with which the network connection is made. In the drop-down list, click on the "Status" item.

Step 13 In the next window, click "Details" and look at the IP address of the computer. It will come in handy for us to enter this PC using Radmin. But only if this IP is permanently assigned to this computer, otherwise it is better to look at the DNS name.

Step 14 To view the name of the computer, let's go to "Start" and right-click on the shortcut "Computer". In the window that opens, in the line "Full name" we see the name of our PC.

Fine. Let's recap the information we'll need shortly:

  • Port for connecting to a remote computer: 4899
  • Computer IP address: 192.168.0.51
  • Computer DNS name: win7

All these data, except for the port, will be different from mine. We have finished manipulations with the remote machine. Let's start setting up the client part of the program (Radmin Viewer).

If Radmin Server is to be installed on remote computers to which you are going to connect, Radmin Viewer, on the contrary, is installed on your computer. It allows you to connect to all computers on your network that have the application's server module installed and configured. Let's not waste time. Let's proceed with the installation.

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Step 1. On the administrator's computer from which connections will be made, run the rview35ru.msi file and click "Next" in the first installation window.

Step 2 We accept the license agreement and click "Next". In the next window, select "Install the application for all users of this computer."

Step 3 Click "Install" and wait for the installation of Radmin Viewer to complete.

Step 4 Good. Now we need to make sure that our computer is on the same subnet as the remote PC. To do this, go to the already familiar path "Start - Control Panel - Network and Sharing Center - Change adapter settings" and right-click on the adapter. In the drop-down list, click on "Status-Details" and look at the IP address. The third digit of our and the remote computer must match, this is the subnet number. If everything is correct, then we move on.

Connecting in Control mode

In this mode, all your mouse and keyboard manipulations are transferred to the remote computer. You get the ability to remotely control your desktop as if it were right in front of you.

Step 1. Go to "Start" and launch "Radmin Viewer 3". In the main window of the program, click "Connect - Connect to ...".

Step 2 In the line "IP address or DNS name" enter the IP address of the remote computer (in my case 192.168.0.51) and by clicking "OK" we will try to connect to the computer in the "Management" mode.

Step 3 In the window that appears, enter the username and password (those that were set on the remote station). And with bated breath, click on "OK".

Step 4 The next moment we get access to the desktop of the remote computer. We can perform any actions on it using the mouse and keyboard.

Connecting in View mode

In this mode, you can observe all user actions, but not interfere with the work process. Personally, I often use this mode. He excelled in the educational process. When students work on their computers, they often have various questions. In order not to run to each of them, I simply open five Radmin windows on my laptop at the same time and move between them and give advice on how to complete the task.

Step 1. In the main window of the program, click on the already beloved tab "Connection-Connect with ...".

Step 2 Enter the usual username and password combination.

Step 3 And we see the screen of the remote computer. But remember that this mode allows us only to look, but not to touch.

Connecting in File Transfer mode

This mode is convenient because by connecting to a remote computer you get the opportunity to download any file from it or transfer your own. In this case, the user will not even feel any manipulation on your part. One more interesting feature is that files can be downloaded from any folders, not just public ones. After all, we get access to all PC disks (except network unfortunately).

Create an address book

The Radmin address book allows us to save the computers we connect to in a convenient format. Connections can be distributed into convenient folders based on the structural divisions of the organization. We will not dwell on the address book in more detail. Let me just say that after you have created all the necessary connections and distributed them in the folder tree (on the left in the main window of Radmin Viewer). We need to export our settings to a separate file that we can open on any computer with Radmin Viewer.

Step 1. Click "Service-Export Address Book ...".

Step 2Give the file a name and select its location.

Step 3 We drop the file on a USB flash drive and run Radmin Viewer on another computer. Open "Service-Import Address Book ...".

Step 4 We select the address book and in a second we see that all our computers created earlier have loaded. By the way, one more trick, if you click on the icon of the same name "Scanning servers in the current folder" (or hotkey F5), then on those PCs that are now turned on, a check mark will appear indicating that the connection is ready.

A spoon of tar

Of the shortcomings noticed during the operation of this product, only three main ones can be distinguished. Although they are more likely not shortcomings, but rather wishes for developers to improve the program:

  • When connected, the Aero style is reset to classic, which immediately tells an experienced user that someone is following him (decided by forcing the classic Windows theme);
  • There is no way to block the keyboard and mouse on a remote computer (and sometimes you really want to catch a student or employee on something curious);
  • Unfortunately, the program is only available for Windows.

Let's summarize. Radmin is great for managing computers remotely. The program is successfully used both to help employees and to modernize educational process. It is also very convenient to administer the server with its help. After all, if a remote access program is installed on the server, then there is no need for a regular monitor. As part of this article, it was originally planned to talk about how to configure Radmin to connect to the Internet. Namely, to do this through port forwarding on the router. But then it was decided to make a separate article on this topic. So wait friends.

For those who are interested in improving their professional skills, I recommend taking a free online test on the developers' website. This will allow you to receive a certificate of a specialist in working with the Radmin software product, which can be printed and hung in beautiful frame over the table.

Denis Kurets was with you and the release of the blog information technologies. Subscribe to updates. Write your comments and wishes. And may your path of knowledge be fast and successful!

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Often there are situations when it becomes necessary to gain access to a remote computer - to its desktop. Most often this happens when you need to help one of your relatives or friends in mastering all sorts of computer intricacies. For example, your mother calls you and says: “Listen, why do I get some kind of terrible message on my computer that I can’t read? They ask you to press some button - should I press it?” In this case, of course, it’s best for you to see with your own eyes what exactly is asked there and what buttons are offered to choose from, otherwise you never know ... In addition, remote access can be very useful when you need to install or set up some software. Yes, and sometimes you need access to your computer at a distance - there are all sorts of cases. How and with what help is this all done? In the operating room Windows system remote access can be carried out by means of the system itself. Open "Control Panel - System - Remote Access". There you need to enable the option to allow remote assistance and remote desktop connections.


Remote access settings in Windows 7

If both your computer and the remote computer have Windows 7 installed, then among the remote desktop options, select the third option - connect to a remote desktop with network level authentication. If you plan to connect to Windows XP, then you need to select the second option.


Enabling Remote Assistance in Windows XP

Windows 7 supports two different modes:

    remote assistance connection; desktop remote control.
Remote Assistance works in all versions of Windows from XP to Windows 7. At the same time, you will see the desktop of your subscriber and will be able to exchange messages with him in a chat (you never know, maybe you don’t have the opportunity to talk to him on the phone at the same time), he also can give you access to computer management: you will be able to use your mouse and keyboard to perform various actions on his computer. Remote desktop control is only supported on Windows 7, except for Starter, Home Basic, or Home Premium versions. With remote control, your subscriber will see the lock screen, and you will be able to log into his computer under a specific user and work in the same way as if you were sitting at this computer. Connecting Remote Assistance On both computers, launch the Windows Remote Assistance program. On the called computer, click "Invite someone you trust to help you." Then there are three options: save the invitation as a file, send the invitation by e-mail, use Easy Connect.


Type of invitation

The first option is to create a special invitation file, after which it must be somehow transferred to the subscriber - for example, via a messenger. The second option is practically the same, only this file is sent to the subscriber via email. The third option, which may not be available, is sending an invitation through the special Easy Connect service. After you select any of the options, a password will appear on your screen, which your subscriber will have to enter in order to access your computer.


Password

If the subscriber has received the invitation file, he must run it - a password request will appear. When using Easy Connect, he will have this prompt without any files. After entering the password, the computers will try to establish a connection and, if successful, you will be prompted to confirm the Remote Assistance connection. After confirmation, your desktop will appear on the subscriber's computer.


Remote Desktop

There is a "Request control" option in the caller's Remote Assistance window. If he clicks it, you will be prompted to allow Remote Assistance to control your desktop. Upon confirmation, Remote Assistance will be able to perform actions on your computer. I must say that not in all cases it is possible to set the remote assistant connection mode. This connection can be blocked by firewalls (they are also firewalls, they are also firewalls), complex protection tools (for example, Kaspersky Internet Security). For Windows XP and Windows Server 2003, the router (router) must support UPnP network technology. Also, the home networks of both computers in Windows Vista or Windows 7 must be set to "Home Network" or "Company Network", but not "Public Network".


Network settings

Remote desktop control Launch the Remote Desktop Connection program. There you make the settings you need (screen settings, sound settings, and so on), enter the computer name and username under which you should log in.


Connection settings

Click the "Connect" button, after which, if the computer is found and the connection is possible, you will be asked for the user's password. You can save this data so that you can connect next time without entering a password. After the connection is established, the desktop of the remote computer will appear in front of you, on which you can work as if you were sitting right behind it. At this point, the session will end on the most remote computer and the user selection screen will appear. If the remote computer user logs in again, your Remote Desktop Connection session will end.


Desktop of a remote computer on top of a normal desktop

Security For security reasons, it is recommended that you enable remote access only immediately prior to the scheduled session. After everything is done, the ability to remote access (that assistant, that desktop management) should be disabled. other methods There are other ways to connect remotely. There are dozens of relevant programs that implement this feature.
These programs are both complex and advanced like RAdmin, and simple ones that require almost no settings. Of the simple and effective, I can recommend the free Ammyy Admin utility (download). It is extremely simple and convenient. Download the program, run it on your and a remote computer. On the remote computer, select the "Client" tab and click the "Start" button. The program will report its identification number - ID.


Running client

On your computer, you need to open the "Operator" tab, enter the client ID there (the numbers will be remembered for the future) and click the "Connect" button.


Launched statement

This will launch Remote Desktop, which you can control with your mouse and keyboard.


Remote Desktop

As you can see, everything is extremely simple and clear. True, unlike the basic tools of Windows 7, remote desktop management noticeably slows down, but usually this type of access is needed in order to perform a few simple actions or even just see what is happening on the screen, so this method can be used.

For remote control Computers have programs that organize remote access. The Internet has recently been no barrier to such solutions. End user support with many tools can be carried out both within the local network and through. This approach is convenient if you need to help a relative or friend who is not well versed in the field of IT technologies. For system administrators, such solutions are indispensable. Review best tools presented in the article.

teamviewer

Describing programs for remote access, one cannot ignore the most popular of them - TeamViewer. It can be downloaded from the manufacturer's website, and then installed or run without installation. Even a beginner can handle it. After starting, a window will appear on the monitor screen, in which the ID and password assigned to the machine will be indicated. To connect to a PC on an administrative machine, you must enter an identifier in the "Manage Computer" field.

Advantages

The advantages include support for several modes of operation in TeamViewer: remote access with control interception, chat, file manager, sharing your PC screen.

System administrators can easily configure the program for round-the-clock access to the server. The tool supports not only popular "desktop" operating systems, but also mobile (Android and iOS). Additional modules can be connected to the application, expanding its functionality.

disadvantages

The program is free for non-commercial use only, in order to install it on corporate devices, you will first have to pay. Sometimes, after five minutes of work, the operator can be automatically disconnected from the client, the application itself will analyze the work and decide that it is being used for commercial purposes. To set up round-the-clock access, you will have to buy an additional tool. The cost of the utility is high.

TeamViewer is great for infrequent and short-term user support, but for dozens or hundreds of devices, the application is not suitable.

LiteManager

LiteManager is a simple but very powerful utility. Windows using it can only be implemented after installing the server part of the application. On the operator's PC, the Viewer must be installed, which allows you to take control of another machine.

To deal with all the tools from the user, it will take more time than when working with TeamViewer, however, the server part has one indisputable advantage - the ID of the administered computer does not change. This number can even be set manually, which is very convenient if support must be provided on an ongoing basis. Personal non-commercial use of the utility is free.

Advantages and disadvantages

In addition to most of the classic modes of operation that programs provide for remote access (control interception, file manager, chat, task manager), there are also quite unusual ones - screen recording to a video file, remote installation of the server part. To establish round-the-clock control, you do not need to purchase additional modules. The utility has no time limits, the price of LiteManager is the lowest among similar tools, and if you buy it once, then the license does not need to be renewed.

The disadvantages of the application include the lack of a version for mobile operating systems. In the free version of the program, it is impossible to administer more than 30 PCs, and its functionality is also slightly reduced.

RAdmin

One of the very first user support tools to hit the market is Remote Admin. Remote access using this utility cannot be organized without an external static IP address. The program is more suitable for system administrators than for ordinary users. The main attention of the utility developer is paid to the security of the connection.

The application has two components: server and client. Installing both the first and second will seem difficult for inexperienced users and it will be impossible to figure it out without reading the manual. The utility is completely paid, but has a test period (30 days).

Advantages and disadvantages

Due to the fact that its own driver is built into the program, it happens as quickly as possible from the screen of a remote user. The built-in IntelAMT technology allows you to connect to the BIOS and configure it, other programs for remote access do not have this function. Traditionally, several modes of connection with an administered computer are implemented: file transfer, chat, control interception.

The main drawback is the inability to connect to the server if it does not have an external IP. There is no mobile OS support. Free use of the utility by the developer is not provided. Setting up the components requires a long study of the user manual. When an operator connects to a remote machine, the Windows graphics switch to a simplified one.

Ammy admin

This application basically repeats the functionality of TeamViewer. There are several modes of operation - control interception, viewing and screen sharing, chat, file transfer. The utility can work without its initial installation. For commercial use it is absolutely free.

Like many other remote access programs, this one allows you to administer devices both on the local network and via the Internet. The number of settings is minimal, so the tool is best suited for simple users who occasionally take on the role of a support operator.

Amyy Admin is not suitable for working in large networks. When using the free version for more than 15 hours in one month, the program may be blocked. Commercial use requires the purchase of a license.

If for some reason you need to connect to a remote computer, then there are a lot of different tools on the Internet for this case. Among them there are both paid and free ones, both convenient and not very convenient.

To figure out which of the available programs suits you best, we recommend that you read this article.

Here we will briefly review each program and try to identify its strengths and weaknesses.

The first program in our review will be AeroAdmin.

This is a program for remote access to a computer. Her distinctive features- it's easy to use and a fairly high-quality connection.

For convenience, there are tools such as a file manager - which will help you exchange files if necessary. The built-in address book allows you to store not only the user IDs by which the connection is made, but also contact information, and the possibility of grouping contacts is also provided here.

Among the licenses, there is both paid and free. Moreover, there are two free licenses here - Free and Free +. Unlike Free, the Free+ license allows you to use the address book and file manager. In order to obtain this license, it is enough to like the page on Facebook and send a request from the program

AmmyAdmin

By by and large AmmyAdmin is a clone of AeroAdmin. The programs are very similar both externally and functionally. There is also the possibility of transferring files and storing information about user IDs. However, there are no additional fields for specifying contact information.

Just like the previous program, AmmyAdmin does not require installation and is ready to work immediately after you download it.

Splash top

The Splashtop remote administration tool is one of the simplest. The program consists of two modules - a viewer and a server. The first module is used to manage a remote computer, while the second module is used to connect and is usually installed on a managed computer.

Unlike the programs that were described above, there is no file sharing tool here. Also, the list of connections is placed on the main form and there is no possibility to specify additional information in it.

AnyDesk

AnyDesk is another free licensed utility for remote control computer. The program has a nice and simple interface, as well as a basic set of functions. Moreover, it works without installation, which greatly simplifies its use. Unlike the tools described above, there is no file manager here, which means there is no possibility of transferring a file to a remote computer.

However, despite the minimal set of functions, it can be used to manage remote computers.

LiteManager

LiteManager is a handy remote administration program that is more geared towards more advanced users. An intuitive interface and a large set of features make this tool the most attractive. In addition to managing and transferring files, there is also a chat that uses not only text messages, but also voice messages to communicate. Compared to other programs, LiteManager has more complex management, but in terms of functionality, it surpasses the likes of AmmyAdmin and AnyDesk.

UltraVNC

UltraVNC is a more professional administration tool that consists of two modules, designed as standalone applications. One module is the server, which is used on the client computer and provides the ability to manage the computer. The second module is the viewer. This is a small program that provides the user with all the available tools for remote computer control.

Compared to other utilities, UltraVNC has a more complex interface, and it also uses more settings for connecting. Thus, this program is more suitable for advanced users.

teamviewer

TeamViewer is a great remote administration tool. Due to its advanced functionality, this program is significantly superior to the alternatives described above. Among the typical features here is the ability to store a list of users, share files and chat. Among the additional features here are conferences, phone calls and more.

In addition, TeamViewer can work both without installation and with installation. In the latter case, it is built into the system as a separate service.

Thus, if you need to connect to a remote computer, then you can use one of the utilities described above. You just have to choose the one that is more convenient for you.

Also, when choosing a program, it is worth considering that in order to manage a computer, you must have the same tool on a remote computer. Therefore, when choosing a program, take into account the level of computer literacy of the remote user.

Free Solutions

Remote control involves connecting to another computer to gain access and manage resources. Thanks to this feature, the user can solve many additional tasks remotely: consult, diagnose, monitor the computer. Thus, tasks are simplified, which are often impossible or irrational to perform at a distance.

As part of the review, 10 solutions (6 free and 4 paid) for remote control will be considered. The main attention will be paid to the following features of the software of the selected category:

  • Package contents: what components are included in the distribution, types of installation on the host and client computer
  • Connection modes: supported protocols, work with RDP (see below)
  • Presentation functions: this refers to the possibility of audio and video support, screen capture, the presence of additional tools (“pointer”, “drawing board”, etc.)
  • Security: supported encryption technologies, storage of confidential data, types of authorization on local and remote computers, availability of necessary settings
  • Platform support: mobile platforms and operating systems, availability of an online version.

The standard features of Windows will not be ignored, namely the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), which will be considered first. At the end of the review - comparison table with detailed information about the availability of the necessary functions in the mentioned applications.

RDP - Windows Remote Desktop Protocol

Starting with Windows NT, the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is supported. Accordingly, Windows 7 offers the user RDP 7 (an update for Windows XP is also available), Windows 8 - RDP 8 (also available for Windows 7 SP1). The capabilities of the current version, RDP 8, will be reviewed.

Connecting to a remote desktop is done using the mstsc.exe application, after entering the name of the remote computer. Connection parameters are also available in this dialog.

The "Screen" tab indicates the resolution of the remote desktop (with the ability to enable full-screen mode), color depth (up to 32 bits).

In the "Local Resources" section, you can select the sound playback mode (on a remote or current computer), enable recording audio from a remote desktop. Also in this section, access to the printer, local disk, floppy drive, PnP devices, ports is configured.

The quality of data transfer is regulated in the "Interaction" tab. You can not only select a connection profile, but also define display settings yourself: desktop background, anti-aliasing, visual effects, image caching. All these options affect the data transfer rate during remote access and can significantly optimize network traffic.

Security settings are available through the "System" component ("System Properties" in the Control Panel). In the "Remote Access" tab, you can allow remote assistance connections, as well as remote connections to the computer. Authentication is performed at the network level. It is also possible to restrict access by specifying a list of allowed remote desktop users yourself.

Thus, the Windows state provides basic tools for working with the RDP protocol. But, as expected, advanced security settings, support for mobile platforms, and presentation functions are not offered to the user.

teamviewer

TeamViewer is perhaps the most famous free remote control software. The toolkit allows you to establish remote access to your home computer, manage your desktop from various platforms and devices, and administer Windows servers. In addition, the developers highlight the corporate capabilities of TeamViewer: the program can be used to organize conferences, consultations and help colleagues at work.

TeamViewer is available for Windows, Linux, Mac platforms (with restrictions), remote access from OS-based devices is possible. TeamViewer's client full version distribution kit ("All in One"), as a system service (TeamViewer Host), in a portable format, on a terminal server and other options. The TeamViewer QuickSupport module should be highlighted, which does not require installation and is optimal for performing urgent tasks.

The client and operator parts are available in the full version of the program. The TeamViewer interface is represented by the main window with two tabs - "Remote Control" and "Conference".

Remote control

The user receives a unique ID to identify the computer on the network, and a temporary password. Also, using the partner ID (optionally - IP address) and knowing his password, you can establish a connection to a remote device.

Three connection modes are available:

  • Remote Management: Manage your device remotely or collaborate on the same computer
    All actions are performed on another computer through the remote control window. At the same time, it is possible to change the resolution and scaling, switching between active monitors and other options.
  • File transfer: share files during a session
    For data exchange in TeamViewer, a two-pane file manager is used, in which host and client resources are available and basic file operations for working with them, such as: creating folders, deleting, copying, etc.
  • VPN: virtual network mode
    You can set up a virtual private network between computers to share devices (printers, removable media, etc.).

Conferences

In this TeamViewer tab, you can create a blitz conference or connect to an existing one. Available tools include voice and video communication, screen sharing, session recording with the ability to convert to AVI. "Whiteboard" (Whiteboard) is used as a canvas for drawing, creating sketches, comments.

One of the indisputable conveniences of TeamViewer is the "Computers and Contacts" list, which provides quick access to devices. In addition, here you can track the network status of computers, exchange messages (there are group chat options). Looking ahead, it should be noted that not every participant in the review offers an address book for quick connection to other devices.

For security purposes, the program uses session encryption (AES 256 bit) and traffic encryption (RSA key exchange). Files transferred during a session are signed by VeriSign and the end user must agree to receive them. Through the TeamViewer settings, it is possible to restrict access: set access to all operations only after confirmation or prohibit outgoing sessions.

Summary

TeamViewer is a universal solution with a choice of remote control methods. Due to the widely presented multimedia functions, convenient organization of contacts, the program is optimal for conferences.

[+] Wide functionality of the free version
[+] Conference tools
[+] Security
[+] Presentation features
[-] Remote session limit (5 minutes in free version)

Ammyy Admin

Ammyy Admin does not require installation and combines a simple interface with flexible functionality. The program is free, has no restrictions for home use. Distributed for Windows, Linux/FreeBSD platforms, mobile devices are not supported.

The client and operator modules are available in the main window. The user receives an ID, which is generated with reference to the equipment. Optionally, when connecting, you can use IP.

The client part can be activated or stopped, thereby setting a ban on connections; by default, Ammyy Admin works in standby mode. You can track the connection status using indicators, the decoding of which is in.

There is an address book, contacts can be combined into groups, change the order of contacts, manually add new addresses. The network status of computers, however, cannot be monitored.

Of the main connection modes, you can select Desktop (remote desktop), File manager (File Manager) and Microsoft RDP. RDP allows you to connect to a remote desktop, regular Windows functions are provided.

Of the other modes, there are Voice Chat (voice chat) and Speed ​​Test (connection speed test). Obviously, multimedia capabilities are not presented here as fully as in TeamViewer: Ammyy Admin is not positioned as some kind of corporate solution. We can note the screen sharing function, which, in combination with voice chat, makes Ammyy Admin a program suitable for remote assistance.

By going to “Ammyy → Settings → Operator”, you can specify RDP parameters, select the type of encryption and codec profiles, thereby reducing the load on the network. More importantly, the "Network" tab allows you to configure the Ammyy Admin connection, manually specify routers, enable or disable data transmission over the Ammyy Worldwide Network.

The file manager is a two-panel one, through which standard file operations between the client and the operator are available.

In the access rights settings (“Client → Access rights”), separate parameters can be set for each ID. The authentication mode (connection to a PC) is provided to choose from: by Hardware ID, password or user permission. Thus, you can minimally protect your computer from unauthorized remote connections.

Summary

The main advantages of Ammyy Admin are speed, simple and fast interface, relative independence from Ammyy servers and free of charge. This is probably not the best solution for team work, but for individual use, with several computers at your disposal, it is quite.

[+] Speed
[+] Easy to set up
[+] RDP support
[-] No support for mobile devices

Supremo Remote Desktop

Supremo Remote Desktop is a convenient portable tool for remote control, remote assistance to other users. Works under Windows XP and above, mobile devices are not supported.

The program starts without installation, to get started, the host and client must download Supremo Remote Desktop from the developer's site. Traditionally, two modes of operation are supported: using a computer as an access point and connecting to a remote device. In the first case, access is opened by pressing the Start button. The Your credentials section contains the data required to connect: ID and password generated at the beginning of the session. The client requests authorization when logging in (option Ask authorization), thereby preventing attempts of unauthorized access to the computer.

To connect to a host, use the Your partner field, or select an address from the Address Book. The list of active connections is displayed in the Connections section of the main program window.

During transmission, the HTTPS (SSL) protocol is used, the data is encrypted. The security settings are poorly disclosed: you can set a password to start the program, specify the IDs allowed for the connection.

Of the other tools available in Supremo Remote Desktop, one can note the multiple connections of users to one machine. To transfer files, a manager is used that resembles a classic two-panel one; uploading and downloading files is available. No presentation and multimedia functions are provided. This certainly limits the use of Supremo as a remote assistant.

Summary

Supremo Remote Desktop is an easy-to-use program with a standard set of tools for remote control. It can be noticed by users who do not need multimedia features.

[+] No router configuration required
[+] Simple interface
[-] Few settings
[-] Slow screen rendering

mRemoteNG

Speaking of universal tools that allow you to work with several protocols at the same time, mRemoteNG is worth mentioning. The program provides access to VNC, ICA, SSH, Telnet, RAW, Rlogin and HTTP / S, there is also support for RDP. Distributed in a portable and standard version of the installer for the Windows platform.

The mRemoteNG interface is represented by several sections, there are panels, tabbedness - as a result, it is easy for the user to configure appearance programs in your own way. The main options are available in the "Configuration" section. Here you can specify the protocol required for connection and related parameters: connection settings, protocol, gateway, appearance, resources, and others. The 'Configuration' displays the connection status of the host.

Connection with devices is carried out through the quick connection panel - it is easy to create several configurations here, which, in the case of many protocols, is very convenient. Connections can be grouped and configurations can be easily imported/exported.

File transfer is carried out via the SSH protocol - which is not very familiar to the average user and at the same time, more reliable in terms of security. Additional features include a port scanner, external tools can be added to the list.

The indistinctness of mRemoteNG is striking. This is manifested in an unusual interface: it is not so convenient to work and configure with each specific protocol. In the connection configuration, many parameters are reduced beyond recognition - this can be attributed to the quality of localization. When you try to find a description of the functions, the documentation is silent, its sections are empty.

Summary

A notable feature of mRemoteNG is the combination of popular protocols into a single graphical shell. By setting up multiple connections, there is no need to use multiple specialized solutions. This plus to some extent compensates for the non-intuitiveness of the program and the lack of documentation.

[−] Unintuitive
[+] Support for multiple protocols
[+] File transfer via SSH
[-] Lack of documentation

TightVNC

Homepage: http://www.tightvnc.com/

TightVNC Software develops several products: TightProjector, RFB Player, VNC Reflector and TightVNC. TightVNC is a remote control program, you can use it to solve computer problems, educational purposes, and administration.

TightVNC is a cross platform solution. For Linux, however, at the time of writing, only the old version of the program is available, Mac OS is not supported. However, there is a version of TightVNC on the Java platform available, which implies the possibility of remote control via a web server. On the Windows platform, TightVNC is installed as a regular application or as a system service. Quiet mode is supported, it is quite easy to transfer the configuration to other computers or remotely update the server.

The TightVNC toolkit is divided into two modules: WinVNC - a server part installed on a remote machine, and a Viewer application designed to view the contents of the screen of a remote server. In the Viewer connection settings, the VNS server address and transmission speed are set.

It should be noted that TightVNC does not generate an access password, you need to define it yourself in the settings. The connection status can be recognized by the icon displayed in the notification area: if at least one user is connected to the computer, the colors of the icon change.

The developers hint that data transfer via VNC, despite the initial DES password protection, is imperfect. For security reasons, it is recommended to use SSH tunneling. At the same time, TightVNC settings can reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access to zero. In future versions of the program, it is also planned to introduce more reliable protection methods.

Summary

TightVNC surprises with a large number of settings regarding connection, security. This is a good choice for the administrator, but in terms of transferring to the server and further maintenance - not the best way for the inexperienced user.

[+] Flexible configuration
[+] Java version
[-] Non-real-time setup
[-] Unintuitive interface

Remote Utilities

Remote Utilities is a solution, according to the developer, designed for small and medium businesses. Remote control is possible directly, via a local network or the Internet. When working with a set of utilities, no firewall adjustment or pre-configuration is required.

The complex works only under Windows, for Linux it is proposed to install the Wine emulator - but only for working with RUT-Viewer. mobile version is absent.

Remote Utilities consists of three modules: viewer - installed on the local computer, host - on a remote computer, agent - a module for user support. The agent, it should be noted, is optimal for quickly establishing communication between the client and the host. Remote installation, as well as updating, is a breeze thanks to the Remote installation tool.

Connection in one of the above modes is made using the New connection dialog (Connection → Add Computer), you can specify an IP address, Internet ID or DNS as an access point. The connected computer is added to the address book list, from which the desired devices are subsequently selected.

In-house remote control tools are provided, such as a remote device manager, registry viewer, terminal, and file manager. A two-panel manager with the ability to copy and move data, launch and open applications and documents on a remote host. Also available support for terminals, power control.

Text chat is quite simple, but be aware that Remote Utilities also offers audio/video chats to users. Worth mentioning here is the ability to capture video and adjust the transmission quality - from 24-bit color to an optimized "picture" for a network with limited transmission (in addition, there is a Network usage mode parameter in the Properties settings of the remote computer). In a word, there are those features that have been listed more than once in similar programs with RDP support.

Remote Utilities assumes 3 types of authorization, AES encryption with a 256-bit key, a 2048-bit public key. Incoming connections are filtered by IP, you can also create a list of trusted users with different access rights. The security subsystem is optional: you can choose RUT or WinNT. Both modes allow you to flexibly configure access to certain functions for each user, there are no significant differences between them.

Summary

A simple set of utilities for remote connection, without choosing a connection protocol, but extremely clear in installation and configuration. Essentially, it lacks cross-platform and a user-friendly interface for working with multiple devices at the same time.

[+] Remote installation and update in remote mode
[+] Availability of basic settings for RDP
[+] Work on the local and Internet
[+] Free (for non-commercial use)