Programs for remote server management. A program for accessing a remote computer via a local network and the Internet

Good afternoon

In today's article I would like to focus on remote control of a computer running Windows 7, 8, 8.1. In general, such a task can arise in a variety of circumstances: for example, helping relatives or friends set up a computer if they do not understand it well; organize remote assistance at the company (enterprise, department) so that you can quickly solve user problems or simply monitor them (so that they don’t play or go through “contacts” during working hours), etc.

You can remotely control your computer with dozens of programs (or maybe even hundreds, such programs appear like “mushrooms after the rain”). In this article we will focus on some of the best. So, let's begin…

Team Viewer

This is one of the best programs for remote PC control. Moreover, it has a number of advantages in relation to similar programs:

It is free for non-commercial use;

Allows you to share files;

Has a high degree of protection;

The computer will be controlled as if you were sitting at it!

When installing a program, you can specify what you will do with it: install it to control this computer, or control it and allow it to connect. It is also necessary to indicate what use of the program will be: commercial/non-commercial.

Once Team Viewer is installed and launched, you can get started.

To connect to another computer need to:

Install and run the utilities on both computers;

Enter the ID of the computer you want to connect to (usually 9 digits);

Then enter the access password (4 digits).

If the data is entered correctly, you will see the “desktop” of the remote computer. Now you can work with it as if it were your “desktop”.

The Team Viewer program window is the desktop of the remote PC.

R admin

One of the best programs for administering computers on a local network and for providing assistance and support to users of this network. The program is paid, but there is a trial period of 30 days. At this time, by the way, the program works without restrictions in any functions.

The principle of operation is similar to Team Viewer. The Radmin program consists of two modules:

Radmin Viewer is a free module with which you can manage computers on which the server version of the module is installed (see below);

Radmin Server is a paid module that is installed on the PC that will be managed.

A mmyy Admin

A relatively new program (but about 40,0000 people around the world have already become familiar with it and started using it) for remote control of computers.

Main advantages:

Free for non-commercial use;

Easy setup and use even for novice users;

High degree of security of transmitted data;

Compatible with all popular operating systems Windows XP, 7, 8;

Works with installed Firewall, via proxy.

Window for connecting to a remote computer. Ammyy Admin

RMS - remote access

A good and free program (for non-commercial use) for remote computer administration. Even novice PC users can use it.

Main advantages:

Firewalls, NAT, firewalls will no longer prevent you from connecting to your PC;

High speed of the program;

There is a version for Android (now you can control your computer from any phone).

A eroAdmin

Website.

Some of you, having read the title of the article, probably wondered: “Why is it necessary at all? control another computer via the Internet? It turns out that it is necessary, first of all, for potential readers of my blog - pensioners and dummies.

Don’t think that I want you to learn this in order to seize control of your neighbor’s computer, whose dog is driving you crazy with its constant barking, and start doing something incredible with him, terrifying him and his dog. Of course not. And without his knowledge, you are unlikely to succeed in such control. I won’t intrigue you, I’ll move on to the topic.

Why do you need to control another computer via the Internet?

Of course, first of all, so that someone more experienced and knowledgeable
computer technology, for example, your friend or relative who lives far from you could, if necessary, help you solve problems with your PC remotely. Yes, it’s not even necessarily a problem, but just setting up some program or helping fill out the same application for a foreign passport via the Internet.
Or another case: you are already a fairly experienced user and you need, while away, from your “travel” laptop to sometimes look at your home PC, if only to print out some document that is only there. Or for some other reason, you never know? This is where you need to control another, that is, your home computer via the Internet.
Or take an enterprise that has its own local network. Can you imagine how much the system administrator will have to run around if he needs to launch a program somewhere or get another PC out of a freeze? What if there are a hundred computers and more than one, but in different buildings? Here you have to be a sprinter. And then, after a while, your legs will wear down to one place. I hope I have dispelled your doubts about the uselessness of this matter?

How remote administration works

Of course, these are not hacker things and various Trojans. Although the methods of programs used to remotely control a computer via the Internet are very similar. And they differ from viruses only in that they act openly and naturally, with the mutual consent of the owners of the PCs involved in this process.
They consist of two parts. The first is the server, the second is the client part. The server is installed on the computer that needs to be controlled, and the client part is installed on the one used by the administrator. In this respect, remote administrators are very similar to Trojan horses. But, as you understand, their goals are completely different.
You can connect to the PC where this server is installed only by knowing its IP address, as well as a password, which must be set on it in order to prevent just anyone from looking into it via the Internet. Otherwise, this same “just anyone” will be able to work on your “brainchild” no worse than any Trojan.

Impact of the type of IP address and problem solving

If you have a static IP address for accessing the Internet, then there will be no problems. But if it is static, but is part of the network of a house or area, and they, in turn, have a dynamic (that is, changing from time to time) address for accessing the Internet, then difficulties may arise. Well, just if you are not a member of any network, but access the Internet using a dynamic address - the same problem.

But these problems are solvable. There are, for example, such special sites as No-Ip.com or DynDNS.com, where you can register, install an “updater” program and get a permanent address through them: user.no-ip.com. True, these sites are in English, but if you need it, I’m sure you can find others in Russian too.

This is for information, but in general I wouldn’t bother with this. Currently, there are many ready-made programs that each time take on all this technical work with registering the current address on their server and indicate at which address to look for your PC on the Internet.

But if there is a need for a static IP address (for example, I need it for a number of other reasons), then this can be done through your provider. For those who don’t know, an ISP is an Internet service provider. In our city in Bashinformsvyaz today connection costs 150 rubles, the monthly fee is 50 rubles. Agree, it’s not such a big amount even for pensioners.

Possibilities after remote connection

I won’t talk about the conveniences that appear after this. This was said at the very beginning when we were figuring out why it was needed. What specific opportunities are directly related to management? Here are the main ones:

• see the desktop, or rather a copy, of the remote PC on your screen;
• intercept control of the keyboard or mouse at any time;
• run any programs that are installed on the managed computer and install new ones if necessary;
• open and, if necessary, modify files;
• download any files via the Internet in forward and reverse directions;

So, thanks to remote administration, we get full control of another computer via the Internet. Virtually unlimited control. Of course, this is with the full consent of his owner. Only for this you need a communication channel speed of at least 256 Kbit/s and a special program.

Programs for controlling another computer via the Internet

For these purposes, there are enough programs, both paid and free. I will list the most common and of course free:

• LogMeIn Hamachi

  Allows you to connect up to 16 PCs from different parts of the world into your own virtual network via the Internet. In addition to management, there are many other possibilities, including organizing online games;

• Ultra VNC

  It can organize remote control even when all other programs are powerless, but for beginners the settings are very complicated, and there is no support for the Russian language;/li>

• Ammyy

  Externally, the program is very similar to Team Viewer. But the principle of its operation is radically different. It is tied to the PC hardware, and therefore it is enough to allow a program with a given ID to the computer once and in the future it will be able to connect to it without any requests.

• Team Viever

  First of all, this program is good because it doesn’t care whether your address is static or dynamic. Working with it, without exaggeration, is a hundred times easier than with the native “Remote Assistance” Windows. We only need to install the program on the PC that we are going to use in this process and create our account in the Team Viewer service.

Installing the Team Viewer program

There is nothing complicated here, but since my blog is intended primarily for pensioners and dummies, we will analyze it in detail and focus on some nuances. In the first window, select “Install”:

I think we can end here.

Good luck to you! See you soon on the pages of the PenserMan blog.

Remote access is a computer function that allows you to connect to your computer via an Internet connection from another computer. To use remote access, the computer must be turned on and the access feature must be installed and activated. Only then can you access and work remotely with your computer from another device.

In addition to the fact that you can use the computer remotely, there are some other functions, namely:

1. Transferring a file– allows you to copy files from a remote computer or vice versa.
2. Guest access– allows your friends to access your computer, for example, to help solve a problem.

Communications during remote access are encrypted and contain a digital signature, which serves to prevent third parties from accessing the computer.

So, how to set up remote access on your computer? There are several ways, namely using Windows tools and using auxiliary programs.

To begin, let's go to "Control Panel". You can do this from the menu "Start - Control Panel".
In the window that opens, browsing by category is usually selected by default, we need to switch to "Small Icons" or "Large icons"(it all depends on your preferences).

In the system properties on the left panel, select "Advanced system settings".

In the window that opens, select the item "Remote access":

Place a check mark next to the item "Allow Remote Assistance connections to this computer".

Choose "Additionally". At this point, you can configure whether or not to allow remote control of the computer and set the length of time during which session connections will be maintained.

In chapter "Remote Desktop" choose "Allow connections from a computer running any version of Remote Desktop".

Click on the button "Select users" and add users who will have remote access to the computer.

Click "OK" to complete the settings.

To connect to a computer with remote access enabled, you need to know Computer IP address. In order to find out the IP address you need to run the command line. It is necessary to enter "ipconfig". In the list that appears, look for your connection (usually “local area connection” or “wireless connection”) and see IPv4 address- this will be the set of numbers we need.

Launch the program on the computer from which you want to gain remote access "Remote Desktop Connection". To do this, go to the menu "Start" - "Standard".

In the window that opens, set the address of the computer to which we are connecting (IP address or name) and click "To plug" to check connection.

As a result, you will see a window asking you to enter your username and password to connect to the computer.

Connecting to a remote computer using TeamViewer

TeamViewer- software package for remote control of computers. The program allows you to gain control over another user's computer, for example, to help him remotely configure programs on a remote computer.

First you need to download and install TeamViewer. To download TeamViewer for free from the official developer website, follow this direct link.

When installing the program, select the option "Install". It is also necessary to note the point “personal/non-commercial use”.

After selecting the TeamViewer installation settings, click on the button "Accept - complete".

We are waiting for the program installation to complete. Then we launch the program and begin setting it up.

In order to remotely connect to another computer, you need to enter the details of the computer that we are going to manage in the “Manage Computer” panel.

In field "Partner ID" enter the partner ID. This data (ID and password) must first be obtained from the user of the remote computer that we will remotely control.

After this, click on the button "Connect to partner".

In the window that opens, in the field "Password" you need to enter the received password and then click on the button "Login".

So, the connection was successful, the desktop of the partner’s remote computer is displayed on the monitor screen. By default, the display of wallpaper will be disabled on the Desktop.

That's all, I hope this article helped you understand the process of connecting to a remote computer.

Today, such a function as controlling another computer via the Internet is not something surprising. There are many free remote access systems that make it possible to easily transfer information between users and carry out various operations on another device via the Internet or local network.

This function is especially needed, for example, when someone who is not particularly versed in the operating system settings tries to change the parameters. In order not to waste a huge period of time on explanations, you can easily and in a matter of seconds set the necessary options yourself. Such utilities are now indispensable for working remotely; for example, you can avoid wasting time traveling to the office, doing all your work from home, being a system administrator and managing your main computer from your home PC. All data will be available at any moment. There is no need to worry about security - all information is subject to reliable encryption, all data is transmitted in a strictly confidential manner. Such utilities can also be used for communication, saving money on voice communications.

There are quite a lot of programs for controlling another computer; let’s look at the five most popular ones, conduct an analysis, and note the advantages and disadvantages.

This program is perhaps the most popular among users and has been occupying a leading position for a long time. In principle, there is a reason for this - the functionality is really good. The utility does not weigh much, downloads quickly, and is freely available. In addition, no installation is required; you can start and work right away. Accordingly, the interface and functions are accessible even to the most inexperienced user. After startup, a window appears with the ID and password of this PC and a window for entering the corresponding data of another device.

The application has many advantages. For example, it allows you to transfer files, chat, screen share, and much more. You can also set the mode for 24/7 access to the device; this function is useful for system administrators. It is worth noting the fairly high speed of operation, the ability to work on all mobile platforms and operating systems. There are also many more additional functions that are useful for remote access.

Of course, there are no escape from shortcomings. Let's list some of them. The main thing is that although the utility is freely available, it should not be used for commercial purposes. Considering this point, many difficulties arise. For example, work may be blocked if the program evaluates your actions as commercial. Expanding functionality is no longer free. Also, you won’t be able to set up 24-hour access for free. To fully use the application you will have to pay, and the amount is not so small.

Thus, despite all the advantages, this application is not always suitable for long-term use. But if you need to perform any operation via remote access once, this is an ideal option.

If you want to work for a long period, you will have to either pay for the full version or be prepared that use will be terminated at any time by the administrator.

Until recently, TeamViewer was probably the only decent program of its kind. Or it was so advertised and promoted that it simply eclipsed all competitors. However, today there are other utilities in the arena that are no worse than the previous one, and in some respects even better. One of these Supremo.

The program is practically no different from the popular TeamViewer, it is just as easy to use, has a simple and understandable interface, is portable, does not require installation and is ready to start working at any time. The application does not install its services. There is a full-screen mode for displaying the workspace on another PC, chat and other functions. It is also worth noting the speed - it is higher than in the previous utility - files are transferred especially simply and quickly. Another advantage that many users appreciate is a password consisting only of numbers, no matter how strange it may sound. Some even abandoned a popular competitor and switched to Supremo precisely because of this point. I'll explain. To control someone else's computer, you need to obtain a password and transfer it along with the ID number to another user. (The algorithm is the same in both programs.) The difference is that TeamViewer generates passwords from Latin alphabet and numbers, while Supremo is limited to numbers. Of course, it will immediately seem that this is unimportant, but those who are faced with attempts to transfer the password to elderly relatives will consider it an argument. Dictating numbers is much easier than dictating a tricky password. Especially for those who do not use SMS and cannot imagine the differences between the letters “J” and “g”, for example. And it's not a matter of intelligence, but of age.

Of course, TeamViewer also has settings to simplify the password system, etc., but in this program everything is simplified to nothing.

You can download the utility for free via a direct link from the developer’s official website. The file size is 2-3 MB.

Supremo operation algorithm (similar to TeamViewer)

To control another computer remotely, you must have the program on both devices.

• Run the utility and click on the installer, confirm the agreement with the license requirements.
• The next step is to click “Start” on the computer you are accessing.
• You receive a secret code and ID, then share them with like-minded users.
• Your “friend” must enter the data received from you in the line called “Partner ID” and connect.
• Then he must enter the password, at the same time you will see a window asking you to confirm the operation (it will automatically disappear after ten seconds). After this, your friend receives full access to your PC, both visual and technical.

Now it will be able to perform various configurations on your behalf: installing and uninstalling software, cleaning the registry, viewing personal files, etc. A hidden window with your monitor will appear in front of him, which he can expand by clicking on it. I recommend turning off all visual effects (Aero, wallpaper, etc.), as the transfer speed between computers will noticeably deteriorate. For correspondence, you can enable Chat; to transfer files, you can launch the file manager.

A fairly convenient and practical utility to use, which consists of several podcasts. The first part is Server, we immediately install it and run it on someone else’s computer, the second is Viewer, which allows you to be guided by another PC. The utility requires a little more knowledge than other programs. Working with the server is not so difficult, you can set the user ID yourself, the program remembers the data and no longer requires re-entering and confirming the information. Free version for personal use - LiteManager Free.

In addition to remote regulation, Chat, data export and registry cleaning, there are several interesting features: monitor capture, inventory, remote deletion. Free use is available to work on thirty computers, there are no restrictions on the time frame of the program, there is a configuration functionIDfor cooperative use. Free and for business use.

There are practically no disadvantages, but some inconveniences in the free version are caused by reduced capabilities when working on more than thirty PCs. In general, the program is quite convenient and effective for administration and remote control.

Ammy admin

The utility is also identical to the TeamViewer program, but much easier to use. The main functions are: Chat, file transfer, viewing and managing a remote computer. Ease of use does not require serious knowledge; you can use it both locally and on the World Wide Web.

The disadvantages may seem to be the limited amount of working time, which is paid for business activities. It is probably better not to use the presented utility for serious manipulations.

One of the original paid remote computer manipulation programs designed for operational administration and with an emphasis on security. The utility consists of two parts: server and client. The main task of the program is to work with the IP address; installation is required. Without special skills, it will be difficult to understand all the functions, so it is not suitable for novice users.

As expected, the program runs at high speeds thanks to the graphics driver, with virtually no lags or freezes. The built-in Intel AMT technique allows you to have access to the BIOS of someone else's PC and carry out various operations using it. The program has no extraordinary features other than reliability and security. Built-in main modes: Chat, file export, remote control.

There are several flaws: the lack of a mobile client and work without an IP address, the free version is only available for a month, graphic limitations disable personalization (the monitor may go dark), experience is required to work with the utility.

So, we can conclude that this program should be used by experienced users to administer PCs in local mode. To surf the Internet, you will most likely need to create a VPN tunnel.

In principle, you can mention at least 5 more programs, but this makes no sense: all the necessary functions are performed by the utilities listed above. The functionality of these programs is not very different. Some are completely free, but have their drawbacks, others have more advanced features, but you have to pay. Some, moreover, have a license for a year, so for long-term use you will have to fork out for its renewal. So you should choose based on your goal. These programs are quite suitable for non-commercial use. You can even combine several at once.

Free solutions

Remote control involves connecting to another computer to gain access and manage resources. Thanks to this feature, the user can solve many additional tasks remotely: conduct consultations, diagnostics, and computer monitoring. Thus, tasks are simplified that are often impossible or irrational to perform at a distance.

As part of the review, 10 solutions (6 free and 4 paid) for remote management will be considered. The main attention will be paid to the following features of the software of the selected category:

• Contents: what components are included in the distribution, types of installation on the host and client computer
• Connection modes: supported protocols, working with RDP (see below)
• Presentation functions: this means the possibility of audio and video accompaniment, screen capture, the presence of additional tools (“pointer”, “drawing board”, etc.)
• Security: supported encryption technologies, storage of confidential data, types of authorization on local and remote computers, availability of necessary settings
• Platform support: mobile platforms and OS, online version available.

Standard Windows capabilities will not be left unattended, namely the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), which will be considered first. At the end of the review there is a comparison table with detailed information about the presence of the necessary functions in the mentioned applications.

RDP - Windows Remote Desktop Protocol

Starting with Windows NT, support for the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is provided. Accordingly, Windows 7 offers the user RDP 7 (an update is also available for Windows XP), Windows 8 - RDP 8 (also available for Windows 7 SP1). The capabilities of the current version, RDP 8, will be reviewed.

Connecting to a remote worker is carried out using the mstsc.exe application, after entering the name of the remote computer. Connection parameters are also available in this dialog.

The “Screen” tab specifies the resolution of the remote desktop (with the ability to enable full-screen mode), color depth (up to 32 bits).

In the “Local Resources” section, you can select the audio playback mode (on the remote or current computer), and enable audio recording from the remote desktop. This section also configures access to the printer, local disk, drive, PnP devices, and ports.

The quality of data transmission is regulated in the “Interaction” tab. You can not only select a connection profile, but also independently determine the display parameters: desktop background, anti-aliasing, visual effects, image caching. All these options affect the speed of data transfer during remote access and can significantly optimize network traffic.

Security settings are available through the System component (System Properties in Control Panel). In the “Remote Access” tab, you can allow Remote Assistance connections, as well as remote connections to your computer. Authentication is performed at the network level. You can also limit access by specifying a list of allowed remote desktop users yourself.

Thus, Windows provides basic tools for working with the RDP protocol. But, as expected, advanced security settings, support for mobile platforms, and presentation functions are not offered to the user.

Teamviewer

TeamViewer is perhaps the most famous free remote control program. The toolkit allows you to establish remote access to your home computer, manage your desktop from various platforms and devices, and administer Windows servers. In addition, the developers highlight the corporate capabilities of TeamViewer: the program can be used to organize conferences, consultations and help colleagues at work.

TeamViewer is available for Windows, Linux, Mac platforms (with restrictions), remote access from OS-based devices is possible. TeamViewer client in the full version of the distribution kit (“All in one”), as a system service (TeamViewer Host), in a portable format, on a terminal server and other options. It is worth highlighting the TeamViewer QuickSupport module, which does not require installation and is optimal for performing urgent tasks.

The full version of the program has client and operator parts available. The TeamViewer interface is represented by a main window with two tabs - “Remote control” and “Conference”.

Remote control

The user receives a unique ID to identify the computer on the network and a temporary password. Also, using the partner's ID (optional IP address) and knowing his password, you can establish a connection to a remote device.

Three connection modes are available:

• Remote control: remote control of a device or collaboration on the same computer
  All actions are performed on another computer through the remote control window. At the same time, it is possible to change the resolution and scaling, switch between active monitors and other options.
• File Transfer: Share files during a session
  To exchange data in TeamViewer, a two-panel file manager is used, in which host and client resources and basic file operations for working with them are available, such as creating folders, deleting, copying, etc.
• VPN: virtual network mode
  You can set up a virtual private network between computers to provide shared access to devices (printers, removable media, etc.).

Conferences

In this TeamViewer tab you can create a blitz conference or connect to an existing one. Among the available tools are voice and video communication, screen sharing, and session recording with the ability to convert to AVI. Whiteboard is used as a canvas for drawing, sketching, and commenting.

One of the undeniable conveniences of TeamViewer is the “Computers and Contacts” list, which provides quick access to devices. In addition, here you can monitor the network status of computers and exchange messages (group chat options are available). Looking ahead, it should be noted that not every review participant offers an address book for quickly connecting to other devices.

For security purposes, the program uses encryption of sessions (AES 256 bit) and traffic (RSA key exchange). Files transferred during the session are signed by VeriSign and the end user must consent to receipt. Through the TeamViewer settings, it is possible to restrict access: setting access to all operations only after confirmation or prohibiting outgoing sessions.

Summary

TeamViewer is a universal solution with the ability to choose a remote control method. Thanks to its wide range of multimedia functions and convenient organization of contacts, the program is optimal for holding conferences.

[+] Wide functionality of the free version
[+] Conference tools
[+] Security
[+] Presentation capabilities
[−] Remote session limit (5 minutes in free version)

Ammyy Admin

Ammyy Admin does not require installation and combines a simple interface and flexible functionality. The program is free and has no restrictions for home use. Distributed for Windows, Linux/FreeBSD platforms, mobile devices are not supported.

Client and operator modules are available in the main window. The user receives an ID that is generated in connection with the equipment. Optionally, you can use IP when connecting.

The client part can be activated or stopped, thereby prohibiting connections; By default, Ammyy Admin works in standby mode. You can track the connection status using indicators, the explanation of which is in.

There is an address book, contacts can be combined into groups, the order of contacts can be changed, and new addresses can be manually added. The network status of computers, however, cannot be monitored.

The main connection modes include Desktop (remote desktop), File manager and Microsoft RDP. RDP allows you to connect to a remote desktop; standard Windows functions are provided.

Other modes include Voice Chat and Speed ​​Test. Obviously, the multimedia capabilities here are not as fully presented as in TeamViewer: Ammyy Admin is not positioned as a kind of corporate solution. You can note the screen sharing function, which in combination with voice chat makes Ammyy Admin a program suitable for remote assistance.

By going to “Ammyy → Settings → Operator”, you can specify RDP parameters, select the encryption type and codec profiles, thereby reducing the load on the network. More importantly, the “Network” tab allows you to configure the Ammyy Admin connection, manually specify routers, enable or disable data transfer over the Ammyy Worldwide Network.

The file manager is a two-panel one, through which standard file operations between the client and the operator are available.

In the access rights settings (“Client → Access Rights”), you can set separate parameters for each ID. The authentication mode (connection to a PC) is available to choose from: by Hardware ID, password or user permission. Thus, you can minimally protect your computer from unauthorized remote connections.

Summary

The main advantages of Ammyy Admin are its speed, simple and fast interface, relative independence from Ammyy servers and free of charge. This is probably not the most optimal solution for working in a team, but for individual use, with several computers at your disposal, it is quite possible.

[+] Speed
[+] Easy to set up
[+] RDP support
[−] No support for mobile devices

Supremo Remote Desktop

Supremo Remote Desktop is a convenient portable tool for remote control and remote assistance to other users. Runs Windows XP and higher, mobile devices are not supported.

The program starts without installation; to start working, the host and client must download Supremo Remote Desktop from the developer’s website. Traditionally, two operating modes are supported: using a computer as an access point and connecting to a remote device. In the first case, access is opened by pressing the Start button. In the Your credentials section, the data required for connection is available: ID and password generated at the beginning of the session. The client requests authorization when logging in (Ask authorization option), thereby preventing unauthorized access attempts to the computer.

To connect to the host, use the Your partner field; you can also select an address from the Address Book. The list of active connections is displayed in the Connections section of the main program window.

During transmission, the HTTPS (SSL) protocol is used, the data is encrypted. The security settings are poorly disclosed: you can set a password to launch the program and specify the IDs allowed for the connection.

Other tools available in Supremo Remote Desktop include multiple connections of users to one machine. To transfer files, a manager is used that is similar to the classic two-panel one; uploading and downloading files is available. There are no presentation or multimedia functions provided. This certainly limits the use of Supremo as a remote assistant.

Summary

Supremo Remote Desktop is an easy-to-use program that has a standard set of tools for remote control. Users who do not need multimedia functions may pay attention to it.

[+] No router setup required
[+] Simple interface
[−] Few settings
[−] Slow screen rendering

mRemoteNG

Speaking about universal tools that allow you to work with several protocols simultaneously, it is worth mentioning mRemoteNG. The program provides access to VNC, ICA, SSH, Telnet, RAW, Rlogin and HTTP/S, and also has RDP support. Distributed in a portable and standard version of the installer for the Windows platform.

The mRemoteNG interface is presented in several sections, with panels and tabs - as a result, the user can easily customize the appearance of the program in his own way. Basic options are available in the “Configuration” section. Here you can specify the protocol required for connection and related parameters: connection settings, protocol, gateway, appearance, resources and others. “Configuration” displays the host connection status.

Connection to devices is carried out through the quick connection panel - here it is easy to create several configurations, which, in the case of multiple protocols, is very convenient. Connections can be grouped and configurations can be easily imported/exported.

File transfer is carried out using the SSH protocol - which is not very familiar to the average user and at the same time, more reliable in terms of security. Additional features include a port scanner, and you can add external tools to the list.

The vagueness of mRemoteNG is striking. This is manifested in an unusual interface: it is not so convenient to work and configure with each specific protocol. In the connection configuration, many parameters are reduced beyond recognition - this can be attributed to the quality of localization. When trying to find a description of the functions, the documentation is silent, its sections are empty.

Summary

A notable feature of mRemoteNG is the combination of popular protocols into a single graphical shell. By setting up multiple connections, there is no need to use multiple specialized solutions. This plus to some extent compensates for the unintuitiveness of the program and the lack of documentation.

[−] Unintuitiveness
[+] Support for multiple protocols
[+] Transferring files via SSH
[−] Lack of documentation

TightVNC

Homepage: http://www.tightvnc.com/

TightVNC Software develops several products: TightProjector, RFB Player, VNC Reflector and TightVNC. TightVNC is a program for remote control; it can be used to solve computer problems, educational purposes, and administration.

TightVNC is a cross-platform solution. For Linux, however, at the time of writing this review, only the old version of the program is available; Mac OS is not supported. However, there is a version of TightVNC available on the Java platform, which allows for remote control via a web server. On the Windows platform, TightVNC is installed as a regular application or as a system service. “Silent” mode is supported, it is quite easy to transfer the configuration to other computers or update servers remotely.

The TightVNC toolkit is divided into two modules: WinVNC - a server part installed on a remote machine, and a Viewer application designed to view the contents of the remote server's screen. In the Viewer connection settings, the VNS server address and transmission speed are set.

It should be noted that TightVNC does not generate an access password; you need to define it yourself in the settings. The connection status can be recognized by the icon displayed in the notification area: if at least one user is connected to the computer, the colors of the icon change.

The developers hint that data transfer via VNC, despite the original DES password protection, is imperfect. For security reasons, it is recommended to use SSH tunneling. At the same time, TightVNC settings reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access to zero. In future versions of the program it is also planned to introduce more reliable protection methods.

Summary

TightVNC surprises with a large number of settings regarding connection and security. This is a good choice for an administrator, but in terms of transfer to a server and further maintenance, it is not the best option for an inexperienced user.

[+] Flexible setup
[+] Java version
[−] Non-operative setting
[−] Unintuitive interface

Remote Utilities

Remote Utilities is a solution, according to the developer, intended for small and medium-sized businesses. Remote control is possible directly, via a local network or the Internet. When working with a set of utilities, no firewall adjustments or preliminary configuration are required.

The complex works only under Windows; for Linux it is suggested to install the Wine emulator - but only for working with RUT-Viewer. There is no mobile version.

Remote Utilities consists of three modules: viewer - installed on the local computer, host - on the remote computer, agent - a module for supporting users. The agent, it should be noted, is optimal for quickly establishing communication between the client and the host. Remote installation, as well as updating, is easy thanks to the Remote installation tool.

A connection in one of the above modes is made using the New connection dialog (Connection → Add Computer), you can specify an IP address, Internet ID or DNS as an access point. The connected computer is added to the list of the address book, from which the necessary devices are subsequently selected.

Standard tools for remote control are provided, such as a remote device manager, registry viewer, terminal and file manager. The manager is two-panel, with the ability to copy and move data, launch and open applications and documents on a remote host. Also available are terminal support and power control.

Text chat is quite simple, but be aware that Remote Utilities also offers audio/video chat for users. Here it is worth mentioning the ability to capture video and adjust the transmission quality - from 24-bit color transmission to an optimized “picture” for a network with limited transmission (in addition, there is a Network usage mode parameter in the Properties settings of the remote computer). In a word, there are those features that have been repeatedly listed in similar programs with RDP support.

Remote Utilities provides 3 types of authorization, AES encryption with a 256-bit key, and a 2048-bit public key. Incoming connections are filtered by IP, and you can also create a list of trusted users with different access rights. The security subsystem is optional: you can choose RUT or WinNT. Both modes allow you to flexibly configure access to certain functions for each user; there are no significant differences between them.

Summary

A simple set of utilities for remote connection, without selecting a connection protocol, but extremely easy to install and configure. Essentially, it lacks cross-platform functionality and a user-friendly interface for working with multiple devices simultaneously.

[+] Remote installation and update in remote mode
[+] Availability of basic settings for RDP
[+] Work via local and Internet
[+] Free (for non-commercial use)