Archive for February, 2012

Remote Desktop: Biggest Time Saver of 2012 (Access Your Files from Anywhere)

February 25, 201248 Comments

Can I tell you how to get your own personal assistant, 100% for free?

The "secret" is installing remote desktop software on your computer -- I have been using it for well over a decade and I hope you have too.

Ok, it isn't a "real" assistant, but this is a way you can remotely see your screen, click around, and even use the keyboard as if you were right there at the computer. In fact, if someone happens to be home looking at your computer screen, it looks like it's possessed, because you're controlling it! Here's where it really came in handy...

The other day I needed to start (and present) on a webinar, and I was a 30 minute drive from home. At present there is no easy way to present a webinar from a mobile device using GoToWebinar. But you know what I did instead?

  • I had a program called "LogMeIn" (free) installed on my home computer
  • I used the "LogMeIn" app ($30) on my iPhone to remotely login, and start the webinar from that computer
  • I switched the "audio mode" on that webinar from presenting on the microphone, to calling in via telephone
  • I called into that number on my phone, and spoke into the phone while presenting the webinar and viewing questions

I have been using remote desktop technology for well over a decade (I used to use "pcAnywhere" in high school and college) and what I like about LogMeIn is that you can connect via your iPhone, iPad, Windows PC or Mac.

Anytime you need to...

  1. Get access to that file or spreadsheet you have been working on
  2. Check PayPal stats without tripping any red flags on your account (even overseas)
  3. Process video files, start webinars
  4. Even leave a document open so I can just switch to it

Because of this app, I don't have to worry about having "that one file uploaded" before I leave, or even carry my laptop along on most trips. As long as I have a 3G or Wifi connection, I know I can use my computer.

I would even go as far as to say that "remote desktop" software is my favorite app of 2012 and probably my biggest time saver to-date.

Question: Do you use remote desktop software on your computer? Why or why not?

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