PC remote control programs are well known to anyone system administrator or a technical support worker, since in their daily activities they are constantly faced with the task of administering servers and user PCs local network. The most common utility for remote PC control is, of course, Remote Desktop Connection, included with the Windows operating system. This fact is explained not so much by her functionality, but because it is an integral part of the OS, and therefore there is no need to purchase it separately. As for the functionality of this utility, in practice it is usually not enough, so specialized software packages from third-party manufacturers are often used. In this article we will look at specialized software packages designed for remote control of computers.
Pros and cons of using Windows Remote Desktop
We also need to make sure that the program has permissions in the firewall. Click "Add User". Enter the username and password to create the user. In the next window we will see that the user has been created but does not have access rights. At the bottom, by checking the "Access to everyone" option, we can have full control over the remote computer.
Remote computer control via the Internet?
We accept the terms license agreement and click “Next”. Click "Finish" and the installation of the client program will be completed. Go to the Connection menu and click New Connection to create a connection to the computer that we want to control remotely.
If we try to classify remote control programs, then they can be divided into two types: utilities that provide access to the desktop of a remote PC, and utilities that provide access to the command line of a remote PC. The first of them provide users with the ability to work with a remote PC in the same way as with a local one. Utilities of the second type allow you to automate the operation of the network by launching the same or different applications on several selected computers on the network, and also, for example, create a schedule for launching programs on remote PCs. It is completely pointless to try to compare these two types of utilities, since they are used in different situations and for different purposes.
We will ask for a username and password which we configure on the server to connect. If we follow all the previous steps correctly, we will open a window in which we can see the desktop of the remote computer and control it as if we were in front of it.
These solutions allow highly geographically mobile professionals to access and manage Internet-connected computers from anywhere in the world, as if they were in their offices. They also support organizing mini-meetings, managing and monitoring systems and servers that are difficult to access securely, and even printing documents from a remote computer.
Note that most remote control programs operate on the “client-server” principle, that is, they imply the presence of server and client parts of the program, which are respectively installed on the managed computer and on the PC from which control is performed. To gain control over a remote PC, it is necessary that the corresponding program module (server part) be running on it. Some remote management utilities allow you to install the server part remotely (if you have the appropriate administrative rights), and sometimes this procedure is completely transparent to the local PC user (usually, in this case, the server part is installed as a service on the remote PC). But some utilities require manual installation of the server part of the program.
Besides, remote access allows you to operate in other devices located on this network, such as routers, telephone exchanges, network printers etc. All of these capabilities benefit companies whose employees or teams are distributed geographically.
How to configure connection settings
Previously, the user would have to go to the IT department if they were in other dependencies, or would have to dispatch a support technician. This meant a delay that had implications for the user experience. With remote access solutions, the user is served in their work the moment they are notified of the defect. This results in reduced phone support time, travel savings and ultimately reduced costs.
In this article we will present to your attention remote control programs designed for use with Windows platforms. It should be noted that in the process of preparing the publication, we looked at several dozen utilities for remote PC control (fortunately, finding them on the Internet is not difficult). However, as it turned out, not all utilities are functional and generally deserve mention. Therefore, we will focus only on those of them that are truly functional and have been tested by us on a real local network.
Another benefit of remote access solutions is increased productivity by enabling employee mobility. In business terms, mobility is the ability of professionals to access corporate resources while on the move. This allows you to work directly with all your regular computer content without having to duplicate files on flash drives or other devices before leaving the office. In addition, teleworking shows great benefits: saving time when moving as well as fuel, facilitating family reconciliation and increasing employee motivation.
Anyplace Control 3.3 (www.anyplace-control.com)
Anyplace Control 3.3 package belongs to the category of client-server applications.
The Host module is installed on the managed PC, and the Admin module of the program is installed on the PC from which control is performed. Of course, it is possible to install both modules simultaneously on any PC on the local network. But the most interesting thing is that the Anyplace Control 3.3 program provides the ability to remotely install the Host module on any computer on the local network. And all that is needed for this is to select a computer on the local network and start the procedure for remote installation of the Host module. Naturally, for this you need to have administrator rights.
For these reasons, remote access solutions are very useful for support centers and for mobile professionals in general. On the one hand, the pedagogical model adopted here combines the main functions of group animation in computer-mediated communication identified by Feenberg: conceptualization, control and meta-fractions, the synthesis of which.
On the other hand, it is based on the service of animation and user assistance, the main function of which is to solve the problems of organizing and animating groups of students, as well as ensuring cohesion by maintaining communication between each of the participants in the educational process.
Note that Anyplace Control 3.3 supports a Russian-language interface.
Anyplace Control 3.3 allows you to work in two modes: viewing and control. In the first mode, it is possible to display the desktop of a remote PC on the screen and observe the user’s actions, and in the control mode, it is possible to completely seize control of the remote PC. An interesting feature of the remote control mode is that the work of the user of the remote PC is not blocked. However, in both modes, the user of the remote PC receives a notification in the form of an icon in the system tray that his computer is “under the hood.”
He then works to implement this basic model of student instructional supervision into the university's undergraduate computer science certificate program across the organization. The teleuniversity faced numerous challenges as it developed and implemented a computer-based learning model for its teleinformatics course. Working in the context of computer-mediated communication, the model integrated the basic functions of group leadership outlined by Feenberg. It is designed to solve leadership and organizational problems within a group; maintain connections between everyone involved in the learning process; and assist in conceptualizing and synthesizing the discussion.
To connect to a remote PC, you must first select it from the list. The built-in scanner allows you to display all computers on the local network (domain or working group), and you can configure the filter to display only PCs that already have the client part of the program installed, that is, those to which you can connect.
This article describes an experiment designed to test this model in a university-level certificate program. This concludes the discussion of the potential impact of this model on the teleuniversity. In the last few years, the advent of information technology in the world of communications has allowed the development of telematics applications to support the pedagogical supervision of students in the context of distance learning.
At the TeleUniversity, the use of a computer for communication purposes is quickly perceived by teachers as a solution to problems associated with pedagogical supervision. The Teluniverse student conducts the apprenticeship at home or to his work. Course content is conveyed through various media, especially print.
After selecting the computers to which you want to connect, they are added to the list and become available for remote control (Fig. 1).
Rice. 1. Anyplace main window
Control 3.3 with a displayed list of computers,
The undoubted advantage of this utility is that it allows you to remotely control several PCs simultaneously. In this case, it is possible to simultaneously execute commands such as shutdown, reboot and end of the user session on managed PCs.
The various possibilities offered by the computer in terms of communication always raise hopes of an effective response to the learning needs of distance education, at least with regard to follow-up, in remote areas, in particular through the creation of exchange networks.
Moreover, they have not provided the opportunity to train effective teaching staff willing to intervene via computer with students. The first is to connect students in learning environments in a distance learning context. TeleUniversity students are located in different places and are available at different times. Despite this situation, the use of the computer for supervisory purposes should allow the creation of networks of exchanges between these groups of students. Unlike traditional observation scenarios, this model supports students who use information Technology to implement your learning.
To prevent unauthorized access to your PC during the installation of Anyplace Control 3.3, you can set an access password to the managed computer. Other interesting features of the program include setting up traffic encryption when remotely managing a PC and using a shared clipboard between the managed computer and the PC from which control is performed. True, it will not be possible to transfer pictures through this buffer, but text fragments are transferred without problems.
Fundamentals of the Computer Coaching Model
It is consistent with the very nature of the knowledge developed in the course content. In the second stage, this basic model is used as the basis for implementing a more complex supervisory structure called a computer program. In fact, experimental diffusion aims not only to evaluate the quality of the course material: written and audiovisual documents, but also the effectiveness of a new tool: the computer as a means of communication with the student. It is through the process of student supervision, defined by the Tele-University as a “supporting structure for learning”, that the computer is integrated to play its role.
In conclusion, we note that the demo version of Anyplace Control 3.3 is valid for 30 days after installation. Price full version program depends on the number of PCs on which it is installed, at the rate of $17.5 per PC.
Access Remote PC 4.12.2 (www.access-remote-pc.com)
The Access Remote PC 4.12.2 utility also belongs to the category of client-server applications and allows you to intercept the desktop and gain full access to any PC where the server part of this program is installed from any other computer (Fig. 2). Note that the server part of the program is installed on the managed PC, and the client part is installed on the computer from which control is performed. When installing the server part of the program on computers that are subject to remote control, the user name for which remote control is authorized and the access password are specified.
REGULAR PRACTICE OF EDUCATIONAL FRAMEWORK
Three elements guided the development of the basic model of computer observation: regular teaching practice in tele-university, literature, and office experience. Throughout the course, you will find a course presentation which includes, among other things, the course objectives, learning material and learning environment, supervision and assessment, as well as activity guidelines, answers and identification documents. His book, The World of Writing Theory and the Practice of Computer Conferencing, was presented as a particularly useful resource.
Rice. 2. Transfer files between computers
in the Access Remote PC 4.12.2 utility
The Access Remote PC 4.12.2 program provides the ability to control computers both over a local network and over the Internet, and even through modem connections. When controlling a computer remotely, the work of the local user is not blocked, and the local user can find out that the computer is controlled from outside, as well as who exactly controls the computer, by the icon in the system tray. In addition, the server part of the program allows, if necessary, to disconnect all remote users from the PC, change passwords, and view statistics for each remote control session.
In addition, the network intermediary brings order to the system and ensures its viability. It meets user requirements and solves simple problems while acting as a gateway to more complex problems as people using telematics also face problems using software and computer hardware.
The qualifications of this resource are excellent knowledge of the characteristics of communication systems and knowledge of group dynamics methods. We also retained Feenberg's description of the main functions of group animation in automated communication: conceptualization, control, consisting mainly of role identification and meta-functions.
Access Remote PC 4.12.2 provides two operating modes: full control mode of the remote PC and monitoring mode.
The disadvantages of this utility include the impossibility of remote simultaneous control of several PCs using a single interface. However, you can simultaneously launch several connection sessions (each of them in its own window), and then you can control several remote computers. Another drawback of the program is the impossibility of remote installation of its server part.
Previously, when the short program “Introduction to Office Automation” was released, the strategy of coordinating the activities of technical and professional resources related to the dissemination of courses and programs at the TeleUniversity was proven effective. This coordination was entrusted to the teaching specialist: a supervisory body, one of whose functions is to ensure quality teaching service to the student during his apprenticeship at the TeleUniversity. In particular, in the dissemination of this short program, he ensured the cooperation of stakeholders, including the Directorates of Graduate Studies, Computer Services and Telecommunications, the Registrar and the Office of Implementation, which are responsible for student recruitment.
The advantages of Access Remote PC include the fact that it can work with firewalls, supports dynamic IP addresses and, importantly, practically does not slow down even in slow conditions. network connections, including modems. In addition, this utility allows you to easily transfer files between computers, for which a special Transfer Files mode is provided (Fig. 2), and also supports working with the clipboard, that is, it allows you to synchronize clipboards on the local and remote PC, which simplifies the transfer text fragments between PCs. Another advantage of the program is support for encryption when transmitting data using the RC4 algorithm with a 160-bit key.
The result of this strategy was an increased ability to serve a much larger customer base than expected, and it was successful. This made it possible to coordinate activities, as well as formulate opinions with the teaching group and managers of various directorates of the institution involved in the implementation computer model control.
The experiment was carried out over 20 weeks from February 18 to June 10. This duration corresponds to the usual broadcast of a three-credit course at Tele University. each student received communication software, allowing them to access the telematics environment. Each group was assigned a mentor.
The free version of the program is fully functional, but the number of times it can be launched is limited - only 30 times.
LanHelper 1.61 (www.hainsoft.com)
LanHelper 1.61 (Fig. 3) is a small utility that allows you to automate the process of managing a local network.
Two tutors came from the full-time staff of TeleUniversity, and four were selected from a bank of teachers who are full-time employees. The final four faculty members were selected based on their experience, each with complementary profiles, and according to their proficiency in writing in the context of computer-mediated communication. Therefore, there was an engineer specialized in distributing telematics applications manager to the general public and trained in communication, a master's student in educational technology and finally an experienced teacher who excels in the practice of supporting a Tele-University student.
Rice. 3. Main window of the LanHelper 1.61 utility
With its help, you can remotely shut down or reboot several computers on the network at the same time. You can run applications on remote PCs (if they support launching from command line), in addition, simultaneous launch of identical applications on a group of managed PCs is supported.
Some conclusions about the continued expansion of the model
During the first session, teachers were introduced to the course material and participated in a one-on-one exchange with Andrew Fienberg on animation. computer help teleconferences. This teleconference, which remained active throughout the experiment, served Starting point for the teaching team. These two types of protective profiles were evident during the experiment. In fact, and naturally, teachers, most of whom have the right to do so, have responded to the needs expressed by students to contextualize course content covered in written or audio-visual form.
The LanHelper utility has a built-in set of commands that can be executed on remote PCs (Fig. 4). In this case, it is possible to specify the time when the application starts and the time interval according to which applications are launched on the PC (minimum interval 1 minute). You can also schedule applications to run on remote PCs. The most important advantage of the program is that to implement all its capabilities, you do not need to install the client part on remote PCs.
Rice. 4. Remote command execution
simultaneously on several computers
using the LanHelper 1.61 utility
In addition to remote command execution, the LanHelper 1.61 utility allows you to view, start and stop various services on remote PCs (Fig. 5), as well as send messages to users (to implement this feature, you must activate the Messenger service on all PCs).
Rice. 5. Working with services on a remote PC
using LanHelper 1.61 utility
To implement the ability to launch applications and execute commands on remote PCs, you must have administrator rights.
The demo version of LanHelper LanHelper 1.61 has a limited validity period of 30 days, the license price is $49.95.
DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 (www.dameware.com)
The DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 software package is powerful system remote administration local network. It is based on a set of utilities Microsoft Windows NT administration utilities, united by a very convenient single interface. Most of the utilities included in the package from the Microsoft Windows NT administration utilities set have advanced capabilities, and in addition, it contains a number of unique utilities. In particular, the package includes the DameWare Mini Remote Control utility, which allows you to fully control the desktop of a remote PC, as well as a utility for implementing command line mode on a remote PC.
When you launch the DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 package, the entire network is automatically scanned and all available domains and workgroups, as well as computers in the selected domain/workgroup are displayed in the main program window (Fig. 6).
Rice. 6. Main window of DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2
Let's briefly list the capabilities of the DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 package: with its help you can view information about hard drives on remote PCs, get acquainted with the contents of the Event Log, view information about connected printers, running processes and services about installed applications, collect detailed information about the PC configuration, receive service information about PCs activated by users, and much more. There are also additional features: you can quickly edit the registry on a remote PC, send messages to users via the Messenger service, remotely shut down or restart computers and, as already mentioned, gain full control of the remote PC via the command line or desktop.
The undoubted advantage of this software package is that to implement remote control, you do not need to manually install the client part of the program on a remote PC. When you try to control a remote PC via the desktop or command line, DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 automatically prompts you to install and start the required service on the remote PC. In this case, the user of this remote PC will learn about the interception of control in a pop-up window, which displays information about which PC is being used for remote control.
The advantages of DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 include the ability simultaneous connection to several computers to manage them, and also the fact that remote control does not block the work of the local user.
Overall, this software package provides a powerful and user-friendly network management tool.
The demo version of the program is fully functional, but has a limited validity period of 30 days. The price of one license is $289. In addition, you can separately purchase the DameWare Mini Remote Control package for remote control of computers via the desktop, one license will cost $89.95.
Omniquad Instant Remote Control 2.2.9 (www.omniquad.com)
The current version of the Omniquad Instant Remote Control utility - 2.2.9 - is far from new, but it still remains one of the best in its class.
The Omniquad Instant Remote Control 2.2.9 utility allows you to gain full control over a remote PC through your desktop. A distinctive feature of this utility is that it does not require installation of the client part on the managed PC. When gaining access to a remote PC, the corresponding service is initially launched in stealth mode, and the user of the PC controlled using this program does not receive any notification and has no way of knowing that control of his computer has been intercepted. This allows you to use this utility for covert monitoring of user actions. Note that not all remote control utilities have the ability to control a PC without prior notification to the user.
When the program starts, the network is automatically scanned, and the computers in the network environment are displayed in the main program window (Fig. 7). After selecting any computer, pressing the Remote Control button intercepts control of the remote PC. The work of the local user is not blocked. In addition, it is possible to run this utility in monitoring mode of the desktop of a remote PC.
Rice. 7. Main window of the Omniquad Instant Remote Control 2.2.9 utility
Please note that for remote control you must have appropriate rights to access the PC. If you are using a firewall on a remote PC, you must open port 6003, which is used by this utility by default. In addition, you can assign any other port to Omniquad Instant Remote Control (but open ports can be scanned).
The disadvantage of the program is that it does not support simultaneous connections with several remote computers.
The demo version of the utility has a limited validity period - 30 days, the license price is $39.
EMCO Remote Desktop Professional 4.0 (www.emco.is)
In terms of the range of functionality, this product (Fig. 8) is to some extent similar to the DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 package. The EMCO Remote Desktop Professional software package is a set of functional tools for implementing remote management of a local network and monitoring its status.
Rice. 8. Main window of the EMCO Remote Desktop Professional utility
When you start the program, you can activate the network scanner, which allows you to collect detailed information about all computers on the local network, about applications installed on them, about running processes, about versions of the existing operating system, about installed equipment, etc. In addition to automatically collecting information about network computers (this process takes quite a long time), PCs can also be added to the list manually.
The package allows you to remotely start and stop services, restart and shut down computers. The most interesting feature of this program is the ability to gain full control over a remote computer - to do this, just select the right computer in the list and go to the Viewer tab. If you are managing a computer for the first time, you must install the NetServer service on the remote PC. This procedure is carried out remotely and is completely invisible to the local user. Once the NetServer service is running on a remote PC, you can connect to it, gain full management control, and then work with the remote PC in the same way as with the local one. When controlling a computer remotely, the work of the local user is not blocked; However, if you use the mouse at the same time, it’s unlikely that anything will work.
Since the local user does not receive any notification that the computer is being controlled externally, EMCO Remote Desktop Professional software can be effectively used to secretly monitor user activity.
Another important advantage of the program is that it allows you to remotely control several PCs at the same time. In this case, a special window is allocated for each connection session with a remote PC.
Among the disadvantages of this program, we note the difficulty of setting it up when using Windows XP SP2 on a managed PC. Moreover, as practice shows, the need for configuration depends on what patches are installed. Of course, the program comes with step-by-step instruction those changes that will have to be made in this case (more precisely, the program downloads the appropriate instructions from the site), however, all this is quite inconvenient and impractical.
The demo version of the program is valid for 30 days and supports only 25 computers on the local network. The price of the package depends on the number of computers on the network: 50 computers (minimum quantity) - $135; 1000 computers - $1295
Radmin 3.0 Remote Control (www.radmin.com)
Of all the products we reviewed, the Radmin 3.0 Remote Control utility from Famatech is the most “fresh” - its a new version came out in early 2007.
This utility is designed to monitor and gain full control over a remote PC as part of a local network.
Radmin 3.0 Remote Control is equipped with only the most necessary tools for managing a remote PC and is very easy to configure (Fig. 9). Thanks to this, it is easy to master. The utility operates on the principle of a client-server application and includes two parts: the first (server) part is installed on the managed PC, and the second - on the PC from which control is performed.
Rice. 9. Main window of the Radmin 3.0 Remote Control utility
The disadvantages of the program include the lack of built-in tools for remote installation of the server part (Radmin Server) on a managed PC, so if you need to gain control over any PC on the network, you will first have to locally install the corresponding module on it.
In our opinion, a serious drawback of this utility is the lack of built-in network scanner, which does not allow you to get a list of PCs that you can connect to.
Well, the last drawback that was discovered during testing of this program is that for correct operation The utility needs to be configured or simply disabled on the managed PC if it is running Windows XP SP2.
The utility operates in several modes: file transfer, full control, view only, Telnet, shutdown and command line mode. Has a built-in file manager, with which files are transferred from one PC to another. The program keeps statistics of the traffic used and can encrypt data.
Using Radmin 3.0 Remote Control, you can manage either one remote computer or several at once, each with its own password. To ensure an increased level of security, you can take additional precautions: enable password protection and create a list of prohibited IP addresses.
IN latest version The program has many interesting innovations:
- Windows Vista OS support;
- text and voice chat with the ability to hold conferences and exchange personal messages and password protection;
- an increased level of security that provides protection against attacks and protection of active data on the network;
- different access rights for each user;
- IP filters to restrict access to specific IP addresses and subnets.
In general, it should be noted that this utility is inferior in functionality to similar remote control utilities. The lack of a built-in network scanner and the need for local installation of the Radmin Server module - all this significantly limits its functionality.
In conclusion, we note that the cost of the Radmin 3.0 Remote Control license is $49 per PC.
Atelier Web Remote Commander 5.59 (www.atelierweb.com)
Atelier Web Remote Commander 5.59 (Fig. 10) is a small utility that, according to the plan, should provide full control of the remote PC. It consists of two parts and works on the client/server principle. In addition, it is possible to remotely collect information about the hardware configuration of a PC, etc. However, it hardly makes sense to list all the capabilities of the utility in this case, since it is so crude that it is unlikely to be used.
Rice. 10. Utility information window
Atelier Web Remote Commander 5.59
One of the obvious shortcomings is the lack of a certificate. In addition, the program does not have a built-in network scanner, which means you have to explicitly enter the name or IP address of the computer you want to connect to, which is extremely inconvenient. But the main drawback is that in order to connect to a remote PC, you first need to install the appropriate program module on it (there are no built-in tools for remote installation) and somehow configure it.
Unfortunately, no matter how we set up the program, we cannot implement remote connection we never succeeded (the connection was made via a local network between two computers with operating system Windows XP SP2). Although the program is paid (the demo version has a limited validity period), it is absolutely useless and inoperable. Our verdict is to “stove” such programs.
Remote Desktop Control 1.7 (www.remote-desktop-control.com)
The Remote Desktop Control 1.7 program belongs to the category of client-server applications, that is, the Host module of the program is installed on the managed PC, and the Admin module is installed on the PC from which control is performed.
In its interface (Fig. 11) and functionality, the Remote Desktop Control 1.7 package is very similar to Anyplace Control 3.3, but it also has some important differences (and in the worst side), for example, it does not have the ability to implement remote installation of the Host module on any computer on the local network. In addition, for the Remote Desktop Control 1.7 package to work, you need to configure the Firewall on the managed computer (add the program to the allowed list), while the Anyplace Control 3.3 program does this automatically.
Rice. 11. Main program window
Remote Desktop Control 1.7 with a displayed list of computers,
which you can connect to remotely
In terms of its functionality, Remote Desktop Control 1.7 is similar to the Anyplace Control 3.3 program: it allows you to work in two modes: viewing and control; in viewing mode, you can display the desktop of a remote PC on the screen and observe user actions, and in control mode, you can completely seize control of the remote PC.
Utilities allow you to remotely control several PCs simultaneously. This allows for the simultaneous execution of commands such as shutdown, reboot and end of the user session on managed PCs.
In conclusion, we note that the demo version of Remote Desktop Control 1.7 is valid for 30 days after installation. The price of the full version of the program depends on the number of PCs on which it is installed - $15 per PC.
TightVNC for Windows 1.3.8 (www.tightvnc.com)
TightVNC for Windows 1.3.8 - absolutely free utility for remote computer control, which works on the client-server principle and has two modules: TightVNC Viewer and TightVNC Server. The TightVNC Server module is installed on the managed PC, and TightVNC Viewer is installed on the PC from which control is performed. There are no tools for remote installation of the TightVNC Server module. In addition, before starting work, you must configure the TightVNC Server module by specifying a connection password. To connect to a remote PC, just specify its DNS name or IP address and select the connection type (Fig. 12).
Rice. 12. Connect to a remote PC using the utility
TightVNC for Windows 1.3.8
The only function of TightVNC for Windows 1.3.8 is to gain full access to the desktop of a remote computer and control it using a mouse and keyboard. Considering that the utility is absolutely free, it can be recommended to home users.
UltraVNC 1.0.2 (www.uvnc.com)
The UltraVNC 1.0.2 utility is another absolutely free, but nevertheless very effective utility for remote PC control, working according to the client-server scheme. The UltraVNC Server module is installed on the managed computer, and the UltraVNC Viewer module is installed on the computer from which control is carried out. The program does not provide tools for remote installation of the UltraVNC Server module, so you must install the modules locally.
The UltraVNC Server module has a lot of settings (Fig. 13) and allows you to set a password for the connection, select the ports to use, etc.
Rice. 13. Configuring the UltraVNC Server module
When accessing the desktop of a remote PC in full control mode, the work of the local user is not blocked. In addition, the UltraVNC 1.0.2 utility offers a number of additional features. For example, there is a built-in chat with which you can exchange messages with a remote PC. The ability to transfer files is also provided. On top of that, the UltraVNC 1.0.2 utility provides encryption of transmitted data, for which keys are exchanged between computers.
In general, it can be noted that the UltraVNC 1.0.2 utility is a highly effective tool for remote PC management and can be recommended for both home users and corporate use (especially considering that the utility is free).
RealVNC (www.realvnc.com)
There are three versions of the RealVNC program: Free Edition, Personal Edition and Enterprise Edition, which differ from each other in functionality and cost.
RealVNC Free Edition has minimal functionality and is absolutely free. Actually, in this case we are only talking about the possibility of gaining access to the desktop of a remote PC.
RealVNC Personal Edition offers a number of additional features. First of all, this is traffic encryption using the AES algorithm with a key length of 128 bits (Fig. 14), and automatic generation of an encryption key is supported. In addition, it is possible to use user authentication, as well as transfer files between computers and much more.
Rice. 14. Configuring traffic encryption
and user authentication
in RealVNC Personal Edition
A distinctive feature of the RealVNC Enterprise Edition is its multi-platform nature. That is this program, having all the functionality of RealVNC Personal Edition, can be used for remote control of computers running Linux, Solaris, HP-UX and MAC OS, as well as Windows 95/98/Me/NT 4/2000/XP/2003/ Vista.
The cost of the RealVNC program depends on the number of licenses (number of managed computers) and on the delivery option. Thus, the Personal Edition costs $30 per license, and the Enterprise Edition costs $50 per license.
Hidden Administrator 1.5 (www.hiddenadm.nm.ru)
The Hidden Administrator 1.5 program (Fig. 15) is another free program for remote control of computers, and, as the name suggests, it allows for covert surveillance of computers.
Rice. 15. Main window of the Hidden Administrator 1.5 utility
The program works on the client-server principle. The server part is installed on a managed computer, and there are no tools for remote installation.
In addition to the function of gaining access in full control mode to the desktop of a remote computer, the Hidden Administrator 1.5 program offers a number of additional features: obtain information about the configuration of a remote PC, exchange files with a remote PC, send messages to a remote PC, turn off or restart a remote computer, work with the registry of a remote PC, receive and transmit the clipboard, run programs on a remote PC and much more (Fig. 16). Listing everything this program is capable of would take a lot of time. Note that the only thing it cannot do is encrypt traffic. Naturally, it is possible to set a password for connecting to a remote PC and even configure an IP filter on computers from which remote control is possible.
Rice. 16. Selecting an action with a remote PC
in Hidden Administrator 1.5
This utility is best in its class and can be recommended to home users.
Remote PC management programs are well known to any system administrator or technical support worker, since in their daily activities they are constantly faced with the task of administering servers and PCs of local network users. The most common utility for remote PC control is, of course, Remote Desktop Connection, included with the Windows operating system. This fact is explained not so much by its functionality, but by the fact that it is an integral part of the OS, and therefore does not need to be purchased separately. As for the functionality of this utility, in practice it is usually not enough, so specialized software packages from third-party manufacturers are often used. In this article we will look at specialized software packages designed for remote control of computers.
Pros and cons of using Windows Remote Desktop
We also need to make sure that the program has permissions in the firewall. Click "Add User". Enter the username and password to create the user. In the next window we will see that the user has been created but does not have access rights. At the bottom, by checking the "Access to everyone" option, we can have full control over the remote computer.
Remote computer control via the Internet?
We accept the terms of the license agreement and click “Next”. Click "Finish" and the installation of the client program will be completed. Go to the Connection menu and click New Connection to create a connection to the computer that we want to control remotely.
If we try to classify remote control programs, then they can be divided into two types: utilities that provide access to the desktop of a remote PC, and utilities that provide access to the command line of a remote PC. The first of them provide users with the ability to work with a remote PC in the same way as with a local one. Utilities of the second type allow you to automate the operation of the network by launching the same or different applications on several selected computers on the network, and also, for example, create a schedule for launching programs on remote PCs. It is completely pointless to try to compare these two types of utilities, since they are used in different situations and for different purposes.
We will ask for a username and password which we configure on the server to connect. If we follow all the previous steps correctly, we will open a window in which we can see the desktop of the remote computer and control it as if we were in front of it.
These solutions allow highly geographically mobile professionals to access and manage Internet-connected computers from anywhere in the world, as if they were in their offices. They also support organizing mini-meetings, managing and monitoring systems and servers that are difficult to access securely, and even printing documents from a remote computer.
Note that most remote control programs operate on the “client-server” principle, that is, they imply the presence of server and client parts of the program, which are respectively installed on the managed computer and on the PC from which control is performed. To gain control over a remote PC, it is necessary that the corresponding program module (server part) be running on it. Some remote management utilities allow you to install the server part remotely (if you have the appropriate administrative rights), and sometimes this procedure is completely transparent to the local PC user (usually, in this case, the server part is installed as a service on the remote PC). But some utilities require manual installation of the server part of the program.
In addition, remote access allows you to operate on other devices located on this network, such as routers, telephone exchanges, network printers, etc. All of these capabilities benefit companies whose employees or teams are distributed geographically.
How to configure connection settings
Previously, the user would have to go to the IT department if they were in other dependencies, or would have to dispatch a support technician. This meant a delay that had implications for the user experience. With remote access solutions, the user is served in their work the moment they are notified of the defect. This results in reduced phone support time, travel savings and ultimately reduced costs.
In this article we will present to your attention remote control programs designed for use with Windows platforms. It should be noted that in the process of preparing the publication, we looked at several dozen utilities for remote PC control (fortunately, finding them on the Internet is not difficult). However, as it turned out, not all utilities are functional and generally deserve mention. Therefore, we will focus only on those of them that are truly functional and have been tested by us on a real local network.
Another benefit of remote access solutions is increased productivity by enabling employee mobility. In business terms, mobility is the ability of professionals to access corporate resources while on the move. This allows you to work directly with all your regular computer content without having to duplicate files on flash drives or other devices before leaving the office. In addition, teleworking shows great benefits: saving time when moving as well as fuel, facilitating family reconciliation and increasing employee motivation.
Anyplace Control 3.3 (www.anyplace-control.com)
Anyplace Control 3.3 package belongs to the category of client-server applications.
The Host module is installed on the managed PC, and the Admin module of the program is installed on the PC from which control is performed. Of course, it is possible to install both modules simultaneously on any PC on the local network. But the most interesting thing is that the Anyplace Control 3.3 program provides the ability to remotely install the Host module on any computer on the local network. And all that is needed for this is to select a computer on the local network and start the procedure for remote installation of the Host module. Naturally, for this you need to have administrator rights.
For these reasons, remote access solutions are very useful for support centers and for mobile professionals in general. On the one hand, the pedagogical model adopted here combines the main functions of group animation in computer-mediated communication identified by Feenberg: conceptualization, control and meta-fractions, the synthesis of which.
On the other hand, it is based on the service of animation and user assistance, the main function of which is to solve the problems of organizing and animating groups of students, as well as ensuring cohesion by maintaining communication between each of the participants in the educational process.
Note that Anyplace Control 3.3 supports a Russian-language interface.
Anyplace Control 3.3 allows you to work in two modes: viewing and control. In the first mode, it is possible to display the desktop of a remote PC on the screen and observe the user’s actions, and in the control mode, it is possible to completely seize control of the remote PC. An interesting feature of the remote control mode is that the work of the user of the remote PC is not blocked. However, in both modes, the user of the remote PC receives a notification in the form of an icon in the system tray that his computer is “under the hood.”
He then works to implement this basic model of student instructional supervision into the university's undergraduate computer science certificate program across the organization. The teleuniversity faced numerous challenges as it developed and implemented a computer-based learning model for its teleinformatics course. Working in the context of computer-mediated communication, the model integrated the basic functions of group leadership outlined by Feenberg. It is designed to solve leadership and organizational problems within a group; maintain connections between everyone involved in the learning process; and assist in conceptualizing and synthesizing the discussion.
To connect to a remote PC, you must first select it from the list. The built-in scanner allows you to display all computers on the local network (domain or workgroup), and you can configure the filter to display only PCs that already have the client part of the program installed, that is, those to which you can connect.
This article describes an experiment designed to test this model in a university-level certificate program. This concludes the discussion of the potential impact of this model on the teleuniversity. In the last few years, the advent of information technology in the world of communications has allowed the development of telematics applications to support pedagogical supervision of students in the context of distance learning.
At the TeleUniversity, the use of a computer for communication purposes is quickly perceived by teachers as a solution to problems associated with pedagogical supervision. The Teluniverse student conducts the apprenticeship at home or to his work. Course content is conveyed through various media, especially print.
After selecting the computers to which you want to connect, they are added to the list and become available for remote control (Fig. 1).
Rice. 1. Anyplace main window
Control 3.3 with a displayed list of computers,
The undoubted advantage of this utility is that it allows you to remotely control several PCs simultaneously. In this case, it is possible to simultaneously execute commands such as shutdown, reboot and end of the user session on managed PCs.
The various possibilities offered by the computer in terms of communication always raise hopes of an effective response to the learning needs of distance education, at least with regard to follow-up, in remote areas, in particular through the creation of exchange networks.
Moreover, they have not provided the opportunity to train effective teaching staff willing to intervene via computer with students. The first is to connect students in learning environments in a distance learning context. TeleUniversity students are located in different places and are available at different times. Despite this situation, the use of the computer for supervisory purposes should allow the creation of networks of exchanges between these groups of students. Unlike traditional observational scenarios, this model allows us to support students who use information technology to implement their learning.
To prevent unauthorized access to your PC during the installation of Anyplace Control 3.3, you can set an access password to the managed computer. Other interesting features of the program include setting up traffic encryption when remotely managing a PC and using a shared clipboard between the managed computer and the PC from which control is performed. True, it will not be possible to transfer pictures through this buffer, but text fragments are transferred without problems.
Fundamentals of the Computer Coaching Model
It is consistent with the very nature of the knowledge developed in the course content. In the second stage, this basic model is used as the basis for implementing a more complex supervisory structure called a computer program. In fact, experimental diffusion aims not only to evaluate the quality of the course material: written and audiovisual documents, but also the effectiveness of a new tool: the computer as a means of communication with the student. It is through the process of student supervision, defined by the Tele-University as a “supporting structure for learning”, that the computer is integrated to play its role.
In conclusion, we note that the demo version of Anyplace Control 3.3 is valid for 30 days after installation. The price of the full version of the program depends on the number of PCs on which it is installed, at the rate of $17.5 per PC.
Access Remote PC 4.12.2 (www.access-remote-pc.com)
The Access Remote PC 4.12.2 utility also belongs to the category of client-server applications and allows you to intercept the desktop and gain full access to any PC where the server part of this program is installed from any other computer (Fig. 2). Note that the server part of the program is installed on the managed PC, and the client part is installed on the computer from which control is performed. When installing the server part of the program on computers that are subject to remote control, the user name for which remote control is authorized and the access password are specified.
REGULAR PRACTICE OF EDUCATIONAL FRAMEWORK
Three elements guided the development of the basic model of computer observation: regular teaching practice in tele-university, literature, and office experience. Throughout the course, you will find a course presentation which includes, among other things, the course objectives, learning material and learning environment, supervision and assessment, as well as activity guidelines, answers and identification documents. His book, The World of Writing Theory and the Practice of Computer Conferencing, was presented as a particularly useful resource.
Rice. 2. Transfer files between computers
in the Access Remote PC 4.12.2 utility
The Access Remote PC 4.12.2 program provides the ability to control computers both over a local network and over the Internet, and even through modem connections. When controlling a computer remotely, the work of the local user is not blocked, and the local user can find out that the computer is controlled from outside, as well as who exactly controls the computer, by the icon in the system tray. In addition, the server part of the program allows, if necessary, to disconnect all remote users from the PC, change passwords, and view statistics for each remote control session.
In addition, the network intermediary brings order to the system and ensures its viability. It meets user requirements and solves simple problems while acting as a gateway to more complex problems as people using telematics also face problems using software and computer hardware.
The qualifications of this resource are excellent knowledge of the characteristics of communication systems and knowledge of group dynamics methods. We also retained Feenberg's description of the main functions of group animation in automated communication: conceptualization, control, consisting mainly of role identification and meta-functions.
Access Remote PC 4.12.2 provides two operating modes: full control mode of the remote PC and monitoring mode.
The disadvantages of this utility include the impossibility of remote simultaneous control of several PCs using a single interface. However, you can simultaneously launch several connection sessions (each of them in its own window), and then you can control several remote computers. Another drawback of the program is the impossibility of remote installation of its server part.
Previously, when the short program “Introduction to Office Automation” was released, the strategy of coordinating the activities of technical and professional resources related to the dissemination of courses and programs at the TeleUniversity was proven effective. This coordination was entrusted to the teaching specialist: a supervisory body, one of whose functions is to ensure quality teaching service to the student during his apprenticeship at the TeleUniversity. In particular, in the dissemination of this short program, he ensured the cooperation of stakeholders, including the Directorates of Graduate Studies, Computer Services and Telecommunications, the Registrar and the Office of Implementation, which are responsible for student recruitment.
The advantages of Access Remote PC include the fact that it can work with firewalls, supports dynamic IP addresses and, importantly, practically does not slow down even on slow network connections, including modem ones. In addition, this utility allows you to easily transfer files between computers, for which a special Transfer Files mode is provided (Fig. 2), and also supports working with the clipboard, that is, it allows you to synchronize clipboards on the local and remote PC, which simplifies the transfer of text messages. fragments between PCs. Another advantage of the program is support for encryption when transmitting data using the RC4 algorithm with a 160-bit key.
The result of this strategy was an increased ability to serve a much larger customer base than expected, and it was successful. This made it possible to coordinate activities, as well as formulate opinions with the teaching group and managers of various directorates of the institution involved in the implementation of the computer control model.
The experiment was carried out over 20 weeks from February 18 to June 10. This duration corresponds to the usual broadcast of a three-credit course at Tele University. each student received communication software allowing them to access the telematics environment. Each group was assigned a mentor.
The free version of the program is fully functional, but the number of times it can be launched is limited - only 30 times.
LanHelper 1.61 (www.hainsoft.com)
LanHelper 1.61 (Fig. 3) is a small utility that allows you to automate the process of managing a local network.
Two tutors came from the full-time staff of TeleUniversity, and four were selected from a bank of teachers who are full-time employees. The final four faculty members were selected based on their experience, each with complementary profiles, and according to their proficiency in writing in the context of computer-mediated communication. Therefore, there was an engineer specialized in distributing telematics applications manager to the general public and trained in communication, a master's student in educational technology and finally an experienced teacher who excels in the practice of supporting a Tele-University student.
Rice. 3. Main window of the LanHelper 1.61 utility
With its help, you can remotely shut down or reboot several computers on the network at the same time. You can run applications on remote PCs (if they support launching from the command line), and it also supports simultaneous launch of identical applications on a group of managed PCs.
Some conclusions about the continued expansion of the model
During the first session, teachers were introduced to the course material and participated in a one-on-one exchange with Andrew Fienberg on animation computer aided teleconferences. This teleconference, which remained active throughout the experiment, served as the starting point for the teaching team. These two types of protective profiles were evident during the experiment. In fact, and naturally, teachers, most of whom have the right to do so, have responded to the needs expressed by students to contextualize course content covered in written or audio-visual form.
The LanHelper utility has a built-in set of commands that can be executed on remote PCs (Fig. 4). In this case, it is possible to specify the time when the application starts and the time interval according to which applications are launched on the PC (minimum interval 1 minute). You can also schedule applications to run on remote PCs. The most important advantage of the program is that to implement all its capabilities, you do not need to install the client part on remote PCs.
Rice. 4. Remote command execution
simultaneously on several computers
using the LanHelper 1.61 utility
In addition to remote command execution, the LanHelper 1.61 utility allows you to view, start and stop various services on remote PCs (Fig. 5), as well as send messages to users (to implement this feature, you must activate the Messenger service on all PCs).
Rice. 5. Working with services on a remote PC
using LanHelper 1.61 utility
To implement the ability to launch applications and execute commands on remote PCs, you must have administrator rights.
The demo version of LanHelper LanHelper 1.61 has a limited validity period of 30 days, the license price is $49.95.
DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 (www.dameware.com)
The DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 software package is a powerful system for remote administration of a local network. It is based on a set of Microsoft Windows NT administration utilities, united by a very convenient single interface. Most of the utilities included in the package from the Microsoft Windows NT administration utilities set have advanced capabilities, and in addition, it contains a number of unique utilities. In particular, the package includes the DameWare Mini Remote Control utility, which allows you to fully control the desktop of a remote PC, as well as a utility for implementing command line mode on a remote PC.
When you launch the DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 package, the entire network is automatically scanned and all available domains and workgroups, as well as computers in the selected domain/workgroup are displayed in the main program window (Fig. 6).
Rice. 6. Main window of DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2
Let's briefly list the capabilities of the DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 package: with its help you can view information about hard drives on remote PCs, get acquainted with the contents of the Event Log, view information about connected printers, running processes and services, installed applications, collect detailed information about PC configuration, receive service information about PCs activated by users and much more. There are also additional features: you can quickly edit the registry on a remote PC, send messages to users via the Messenger service, remotely shut down or restart computers and, as already mentioned, gain full control of the remote PC via the command line or desktop.
The undoubted advantage of this software package is that to implement remote control, you do not need to manually install the client part of the program on a remote PC. When you try to control a remote PC via the desktop or command line, DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 automatically prompts you to install and start the required service on the remote PC. In this case, the user of this remote PC will learn about the interception of control in a pop-up window, which displays information about which PC is being used for remote control.
The advantages of DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 include the ability to simultaneously connect to several computers to manage them, as well as the fact that remote control does not block the work of the local user.
Overall, this software package provides a powerful and user-friendly network management tool.
The demo version of the program is fully functional, but has a limited validity period of 30 days. The price of one license is $289. In addition, you can separately purchase the DameWare Mini Remote Control package for remote control of computers via the desktop, one license will cost $89.95.
Omniquad Instant Remote Control 2.2.9 (www.omniquad.com)
The current version of the Omniquad Instant Remote Control utility - 2.2.9 - is far from new, but it still remains one of the best in its class.
The Omniquad Instant Remote Control 2.2.9 utility allows you to gain full control over a remote PC through your desktop. A distinctive feature of this utility is that it does not require installation of the client part on the managed PC. When gaining access to a remote PC, the corresponding service is initially launched in stealth mode, and the user of the PC controlled using this program does not receive any notification and has no way of knowing that control of his computer has been intercepted. This allows you to use this utility for covert monitoring of user actions. Note that not all remote control utilities have the ability to control a PC without prior notification to the user.
When the program starts, the network is automatically scanned, and the computers in the network environment are displayed in the main program window (Fig. 7). After selecting any computer, pressing the Remote Control button intercepts control of the remote PC. The work of the local user is not blocked. In addition, it is possible to run this utility in monitoring mode of the desktop of a remote PC.
Rice. 7. Main window of the Omniquad Instant Remote Control 2.2.9 utility
Please note that for remote control you must have appropriate rights to access the PC. If you are using a firewall on a remote PC, you must open port 6003, which is used by this utility by default. In addition, you can assign any other port to Omniquad Instant Remote Control (and open ports can be scanned).
The disadvantage of the program is that it does not support simultaneous connections with several remote computers.
The demo version of the utility has a limited validity period - 30 days, the license price is $39.
EMCO Remote Desktop Professional 4.0 (www.emco.is)
In terms of the range of functionality, this product (Fig. 8) is to some extent similar to the DameWare NT Utilities 5.5.0.2 package. The EMCO Remote Desktop Professional software package is a set of functional tools for implementing remote management of a local network and monitoring its status.
Rice. 8. Main window of the EMCO Remote Desktop Professional utility
When you start the program, you can activate the network scanner, which allows you to collect detailed information about all computers on the local network, about applications installed on them, about running processes, about versions of the existing operating system, about installed equipment, etc. In addition to automatically collecting information about network computers (this process takes quite a long time), PCs can also be added to the list manually.
The package allows you to remotely start and stop services, restart and shut down computers. The most interesting feature of this program is the ability to gain full control over a remote computer - to do this, just select the desired computer in the list and go to the Viewer tab. If you are managing a computer for the first time, you must install the NetServer service on the remote PC. This procedure is carried out remotely and is completely invisible to the local user. Once the NetServer service is running on a remote PC, you can connect to it, gain full management control, and then work with the remote PC in the same way as with the local one. When controlling a computer remotely, the work of the local user is not blocked; However, if you use the mouse at the same time, it’s unlikely that anything will work.
Since the local user does not receive any notification that the computer is being controlled externally, EMCO Remote Desktop Professional software can be effectively used to secretly monitor user activity.
Another important advantage of the program is that it allows you to remotely control several PCs at the same time. In this case, a special window is allocated for each connection session with a remote PC.
Among the disadvantages of this program, we note the difficulty of setting it up when using Windows XP SP2 on a managed PC. Moreover, as practice shows, the need for configuration depends on what patches are installed. Of course, the program comes with step-by-step instructions for the changes that will have to be made in this case (more precisely, the program downloads the corresponding instructions from the website), but all this is quite inconvenient and impractical.
The demo version of the program is valid for 30 days and supports only 25 computers on the local network. The price of the package depends on the number of computers on the network: 50 computers (minimum quantity) - $135; 1000 computers - $1295
Radmin 3.0 Remote Control (www.radmin.com)
Of all the products we reviewed, the Radmin 3.0 Remote Control utility from Famatech is the most recent - its new version was released in early 2007.
This utility is designed to monitor and gain full control over a remote PC as part of a local network.
Radmin 3.0 Remote Control is equipped with only the most necessary tools for managing a remote PC and is very easy to configure (Fig. 9). Thanks to this, it is easy to master. The utility operates on the principle of a client-server application and includes two parts: the first (server) part is installed on the managed PC, and the second - on the PC from which control is performed.
Rice. 9. Main window of the Radmin 3.0 Remote Control utility
The disadvantages of the program include the lack of built-in tools for remote installation of the server part (Radmin Server) on a managed PC, so if you need to gain control over any PC on the network, you will first have to locally install the corresponding module on it.
In our opinion, a serious drawback of this utility is the lack of a built-in network scanner, which does not allow you to obtain a list of PCs that you can connect to.
Well, the last drawback that was discovered during testing of this program is that for the utility to work correctly, you need to configure or simply disable the Firewall on the managed PC if it is using Windows XP SP2.
The utility operates in several modes: file transfer, full control, view only, Telnet, shutdown and command line mode. There is a built-in file manager with which files are transferred from one PC to another. The program keeps statistics of the traffic used and can encrypt data.
Using Radmin 3.0 Remote Control, you can manage either one remote computer or several at once, each with its own password. To ensure an increased level of security, you can take additional precautions: enable password protection and create a list of prohibited IP addresses.
The latest version of the program has many interesting innovations:
- Windows Vista OS support;
- text and voice chat with the ability to hold conferences and exchange personal messages and password protection;
- an increased level of security that provides protection against attacks and protection of active data on the network;
- different access rights for each user;
- IP filters to restrict access to specific IP addresses and subnets.
In general, it should be noted that this utility is inferior in functionality to similar remote control utilities. The lack of a built-in network scanner and the need for local installation of the Radmin Server module - all this significantly limits its functionality.
In conclusion, we note that the cost of the Radmin 3.0 Remote Control license is $49 per PC.
Atelier Web Remote Commander 5.59 (www.atelierweb.com)
Atelier Web Remote Commander 5.59 (Fig. 10) is a small utility that, according to the plan, should provide full control of the remote PC. It consists of two parts and works on the client/server principle. In addition, it is possible to remotely collect information about the hardware configuration of a PC, etc. However, it hardly makes sense to list all the capabilities of the utility in this case, since it is so crude that it is unlikely to be used.
Rice. 10. Utility information window
Atelier Web Remote Commander 5.59
One of the obvious shortcomings is the lack of a certificate. In addition, the program does not have a built-in network scanner, which means you have to explicitly enter the name or IP address of the computer you want to connect to, which is extremely inconvenient. But the main drawback is that in order to connect to a remote PC, you first need to install the appropriate program module on it (there are no built-in tools for remote installation) and somehow configure it.
Unfortunately, no matter how we configured the program, we were unable to make a remote connection (the connection was made via a local network between two computers running Windows system XP SP2). Although the program is paid (the demo version has a limited validity period), it is absolutely useless and inoperable. Our verdict is to “stove” such programs.
Remote Desktop Control 1.7 (www.remote-desktop-control.com)
The Remote Desktop Control 1.7 program belongs to the category of client-server applications, that is, the Host module of the program is installed on the managed PC, and the Admin module is installed on the PC from which control is performed.
In terms of its interface (Fig. 11) and functionality, the Remote Desktop Control 1.7 package is very similar to Anyplace Control 3.3, but it also has some important differences (and for the worse), for example, it does not have the ability to implement remote installation of the Host module on any local computer networks. In addition, for the Remote Desktop Control 1.7 package to work, you need to configure the Firewall on the managed computer (add the program to the allowed list), while the Anyplace Control 3.3 program does this automatically.
Rice. 11. Main program window
Remote Desktop Control 1.7 with a displayed list of computers,
which you can connect to remotely
In terms of its functionality, Remote Desktop Control 1.7 is similar to the Anyplace Control 3.3 program: it allows you to work in two modes: viewing and control; in viewing mode, you can display the desktop of a remote PC on the screen and observe user actions, and in control mode, you can completely seize control of the remote PC.
Utilities allow you to remotely control several PCs simultaneously. This allows for the simultaneous execution of commands such as shutdown, reboot and end of the user session on managed PCs.
In conclusion, we note that the demo version of Remote Desktop Control 1.7 is valid for 30 days after installation. The price of the full version of the program depends on the number of PCs on which it is installed - $15 per PC.
TightVNC for Windows 1.3.8 (www.tightvnc.com)
TightVNC for Windows 1.3.8 is an absolutely free utility for remote computer control, which works on the client-server principle and has two modules: TightVNC Viewer and TightVNC Server. The TightVNC Server module is installed on the managed PC, and TightVNC Viewer is installed on the PC from which control is performed. There are no tools for remote installation of the TightVNC Server module. In addition, before starting work, you must configure the TightVNC Server module by specifying a connection password. To connect to a remote PC, just specify its DNS name or IP address and select the connection type (Fig. 12).
Rice. 12. Connect to a remote PC using the utility
TightVNC for Windows 1.3.8
The only function of TightVNC for Windows 1.3.8 is to gain full access to the desktop of a remote computer and control it using a mouse and keyboard. Considering that the utility is absolutely free, it can be recommended to home users.
UltraVNC 1.0.2 (www.uvnc.com)
The UltraVNC 1.0.2 utility is another absolutely free, but nevertheless very effective utility for remote PC control, working according to the client-server scheme. The UltraVNC Server module is installed on the managed computer, and the UltraVNC Viewer module is installed on the computer from which control is carried out. The program does not provide tools for remote installation of the UltraVNC Server module, so you must install the modules locally.
The UltraVNC Server module has a lot of settings (Fig. 13) and allows you to set a password for the connection, select the ports to use, etc.
Rice. 13. Configuring the UltraVNC Server module
When accessing the desktop of a remote PC in full control mode, the work of the local user is not blocked. In addition, the UltraVNC 1.0.2 utility offers a number of additional features. For example, there is a built-in chat with which you can exchange messages with a remote PC. The ability to transfer files is also provided. On top of that, the UltraVNC 1.0.2 utility provides encryption of transmitted data, for which keys are exchanged between computers.
In general, it can be noted that the UltraVNC 1.0.2 utility is a highly effective tool for remote PC management and can be recommended for both home users and corporate use (especially considering that the utility is free).
RealVNC (www.realvnc.com)
There are three versions of the RealVNC program: Free Edition, Personal Edition and Enterprise Edition, which differ from each other in functionality and cost.
RealVNC Free Edition has minimal functionality and is absolutely free. Actually, in this case we are only talking about the possibility of gaining access to the desktop of a remote PC.
RealVNC Personal Edition offers a number of additional features. First of all, this is traffic encryption using the AES algorithm with a key length of 128 bits (Fig. 14), and automatic generation of an encryption key is supported. In addition, it is possible to use user authentication, as well as transfer files between computers and much more.
Rice. 14. Configuring traffic encryption
and user authentication
in RealVNC Personal Edition
A distinctive feature of the RealVNC Enterprise Edition is its multi-platform nature. That is, this program, having all the functionality of RealVNC Personal Edition, can be used to remotely control computers running Linux, Solaris, HP-UX and MAC OS, as well as Windows 95/98/Me/NT 4/2000/ XP/2003/Vista.
The cost of the RealVNC program depends on the number of licenses (number of managed computers) and on the delivery option. Thus, the Personal Edition costs $30 per license, and the Enterprise Edition costs $50 per license.
Hidden Administrator 1.5 (www.hiddenadm.nm.ru)
The Hidden Administrator 1.5 program (Fig. 15) is another free program for remote computer management, and, as the name suggests, it allows you to covertly monitor computers.
Rice. 15. Main window of the Hidden Administrator 1.5 utility
The program works on the client-server principle. The server part is installed on a managed computer, and there are no tools for remote installation.
In addition to the function of gaining access in full control mode to the desktop of a remote computer, the Hidden Administrator 1.5 program offers a number of additional features: obtain information about the configuration of a remote PC, exchange files with a remote PC, send messages to a remote PC, turn off or restart a remote computer, work with the registry of a remote PC, receive and transmit the clipboard, run programs on a remote PC and much more (Fig. 16). Listing everything this program is capable of would take a lot of time. Note that the only thing it cannot do is encrypt traffic. Naturally, it is possible to set a password for connecting to a remote PC and even configure an IP filter on computers from which remote control is possible.
Rice. 16. Selecting an action with a remote PC
in Hidden Administrator 1.5
This utility is best in its class and can be recommended to home users.
