A Guide to Remote Access Software for Macs

GoToMyPC Offers a Free Beta Test of Remote Online Access for Macs

Nov 16, 2009 Carol Finch

Although there are remote access systems for Macs, one of the main sector names, GoToMyPC, has only just moved into the market. Is it worth trying its free beta test?

Online remote access services and software packages can be a good way of giving a single machine networked capabilities with none of the traditional costs and hassle.

One of the major players in this field, GoToMyPC, is currently expanding its PC services to allow Mac owners to use their system in a more comprehensive way. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using remote access services and what does this beta offer?

How Does Remote Access Work?

This kind of solution basically allows a user to access a computer remotely from any location via the Internet. All the user needs is a computer and an account with the remote access provider. They then usually have to download the access software to hook their machine up to the online network.

Once this is done the user can then log on to their computer from any other machine in any location (as long as it has Internet access). They can then work on their computer and use it as if they were using it from their home/office location.

The Advantages of Remote Access Services

This may be useful in certain situations. For example:

A business could sign up work computers allowing employees to access their files and data from home or when they are working out of the office.
An individual could connect a home computer and get access to it when away from home.

This is basically like having a portable online network that allows a user instant access to their computer without having to be anywhere near it.

The Disadvantages of Remote Access Services

There are things to consider before using this kind of service. For example:

Many of the more robust and reputable systems will charge a fee for the service.
The security of service and its speed may vary from provider to provider.

Deciding whether the advantages outweigh any disadvantages may well depend on the user and their circumstances. The security elements may be more important to corporate users, for example, than general consumers who may be more concerned with the convenience of the solution.

What is the GoToMyPC for Mac Beta?

GoToMyPC may well be one of the best known names in the remote access sector. Until recently their services have been primarily offered to PC users. Mac owners with PC software could use the service but not always to full effect.

The company are currently running a beta version for Macs to offer the same full functionality as it gives to PCs. This allows a Mac user to:

Access a linked-in Mac remotely from any location.
Use a Mac to access a PC (or a PC to access a Mac) by using the built-in Mac Viewer.
Use the beta service free of charge until it is rolled out.

This could be especially useful for those that might find dual access useful. So, for example, if they have a Mac at home and use a PC at work then they can still use their home system for remote access (and vice versa).

PC users interested in this kind of service may also be able to try it out free of charge. Many service providers in this sector, including GoToMyPC, will offer free trials to start with. Looking at the options available in the remote access sector may also be worth doing.

Source: GoToMyPC

The copyright of the article A Guide to Remote Access Software for Macs in Computer Software is owned by Carol Finch. Permission to republish A Guide to Remote Access Software for Macs in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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