Free Alternatives to GoToMyPC

Paying for GoToMyPC? Get Remote Access for Free!

GotoMyPC allows you to log on to a remote computer, access the desktop, open files or run programs, just as if you were sitting at its keyboard. This screen sharing ability can be handy for technical consultants solving clients' problems; people who are away from their home or office computers; or just showing Grandma how to save photos of the kids on her hard drive.

But there's no need to pay $20 a month for remote access, when there are other tools that let you do it for free.

Every remote access solution has two software components. One, installed on the host computer you wish to access remotely, accepts connections via the Internet, dial-up phone lines, Ethernet, or other means. It also accepts command sent via the connection and executes them on the host computer. Finally, it takes the output of the executed routines and sends it over the connection to the remote party. The remote component, from which you type commands, handles login to the host computer, transmission of commands, and responses received from the host.

In the past, the remote component of remote access software was a dedicated utility that you installed on your laptop or other remote machine. But most of the functions of the remote access component are built right into modern Web browsers, so an additional program is unnecessary in many cases.

There are many remote access solutions on the market. Here is a run-down of some of the most popular FREE alternatives to GoToMyPC. Each operates slightly differently so you should experiment with several solutions before choosing the one that's right for you.

Free Remote Access Tools

Logmein.com offers a remote access service that's very similar to GotoMyPC. Although it may be a little confusing when perusing the Logmein website, the 'Logmein Free' option is what you want - not a free trial. Just download and install the LogMeIn software on the PC or Mac computer you want to access. Then log into your LogMeIn Free account from another computer and click the icon corresponding to the computer you want to control. Just as with GotoMyPC, you'll have complete access to the remote desktop, file and applications as if you were sitting in front of it.

I used GotoMyPC for over a year before I discovered Logmein Free. And now, several years later, I've found that LogMeIn does everything I need in a remote access tool. There's also a paid LogMeIn Pro option, which gives you additional features such as file transfer, remote sound (so you can hear what's coming from the remote speakers), and the ability to print remote files on your local computer.

Crossloop is a free screen-sharing tool that can connect two PC or Mac computers. Here's how it works: Both parties download and run the tiny Crossloop program, then the person who wants help clicks the Share tab, and send the access code to the helper. The helper clicks the Access tab, enters the code, and Crossloop ensures the right machines get connected to one another through the magic of the Internet. Crossloop just works, and doesn't require either party to muck with obscure firewall or router settings.

Microsoft Windows has remote access built into it, in the form of the Remote Assistance tool developed by the company. See my article Remote Assistance for help setting this up, or consult your version of Windows Help for instructions in its use.

UltraVNC is designed specifically for tech support applications. It is a free, open-source program developed by people who do tech support for a living, so it has numerous bells and whistles designed for such work. No host software is required with the SingleClick addon. Text chat is supported so you can talk to a client while showing him or her what to do visually. UltraVNC supports multiple monitors for tech support reps who have several clients going at once.

Do you have something to say about remote access or screen sharing tools? Post your comment or question below...