Remote Access Software and Troubleshooting

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Has a friend ever called you over the phone asking for help because her computer has some problems she cannot solve? The problem with this is that it is very hard to troubleshoot a computer problem without being able to operate the computer in front of you. Sometimes, to properly diagnose the problem, you have to perform some steps and, depending on the results, you do different sets of steps.

For instance, if your friend says that she cannot connect to the Internet, there are many possible causes. You need to try a lot of stuff in order to isolate the problem. You need to operate her computer.

The solution to this is Remote Access Software. With Windows XP and above, this is easier to do as there is a built-in remote access software that helps you to connect to a friends computer after being invited. You can then help them by taking remote access control of their computer system and fixing the problem.

For this to work, both of you must have an internet connection and Windows XP or higher. Both of you must also have an email address or be signed in to Windows Live Messenger.

There are a couple of ways to connect both of your computers but the easiest is through Windows Live Messenger:

1. First, sign in to Windows Live Messenger and have your friend do the same thing;
2. The computer user that wants to invite must go to the start menu and choose Help and Support;
3. Click on Invite a Friend to connect to your computer with Remote Assistance which is located under the Ask For Assistance menu;
4. Then, press Invite someone to help you;
5. Choose your friend’s name from the Windows Messenger contact list;
6. Click on Invite this person;
7. This will allow your friend to see your desktop. If they want to control your PC, they must press the Take control button and the other person must agree by clicking on OK.

There you go. You can now help someone in need.