Looking into Remote Computing software. What is the best available? If anyone using them on regular basis, can you please give me Pros and Cons.  I have heard about GoToMyPC and PCAnywhere. Used PCAnywhere Dos program in the past but not that effectively. I will appreciate your feedback to help me to choose the right one. Thanks.

Bharat Naik

I use pcAnyWhere (PCA) extensively, every day.  My number one choice.  Have used it for over 15 years.  Prefer it over Remote Desktop and Terminal Services.

Since version 10.5, PCA also has a Web Client that can be used.  So you can install Web Client from thumb drive on any browser for access to remote Host system.

GoToMyPc involves monthly charges about $20 USD.  PCA has no charge after initial purchase.  I have found that version 10.5 or higher is adequate, can get good prices ($20) on Ebay (vs. the latest 11.5 for $150.)

Remote Desktop works good if the remote Host is XP Pro or higher.  Don't think it is available on XP Home version.  You can use Remote Desktop Client on WIN98 to connect to XP PRO, but cannot go the other direction. 

Remote Desktop does not easily allow file transfers, pcAnyWhere has it built in, simple Drag/Drop across explorer type split window. 

Remote Desktop blocks out Host system, logs out the existing user, but PCA allows users at Host and Remote ends to control the workstation, or the remote Host can be locked to the user.  This also means you can connect to a remote Host and see real time the existing problem on the screen vs. Remote Desktop logging the user out and losing that status.

PCA has good security, encryption availble, passwords, gateway options, etc.  Default ports can be redefined for additional security. Scripts can be written to execute on connection.  Programs can be set to run immediately upon connection, File/folder synching can be automatic. 

Both programs need some setup on Host systems.  May also need some port redirections on router, depending on complexity of network.  PCA is also more sensitive to Video Drivers vs. Remote Desktop, but that was more common in earlier versions.  You can now define some video settings.  I have not found this to be a problem in the last few years.

Again, I recommend PCA, version 10.5 or higher.

Thanks guys. I am looking into Remote Desktop before I go out and buy something. I had used PCAnywhere before so that is good alternative. Looked into VNC also. I hate to go through a learning curve with new softwares.

Most of the broadband ISP services comes with Dynamic IP and that causes problem with remote computing. If the IP of the computer has changed since your last connection, you will not get connected, not knowing the current IP.

One can have Static IP for about $15 more monthly or get a domain and DNS service. DNS service keeps up with changing IP while you use only Domain name while connecting.

Using Sesame over the Internet as a client, I believe, one will need to have either domain or will have to face similar problem. What is your experience in this regards? Is it better to have static IP or Domain? Can someone gives pros and cons of these approaches. 

Registering of domain to have a website is understandable but to have for this purpose is a little new to me.  Your input is very much appreciated.  Thanks.

Bharat Naik

Thanks Bob Hansen. It works great. Now it does not matter if the IP changes, one can still reach the remote computer with no extra cost.

I have recently been using LogMeIn because that is what my client already had.  This is a web based remote application and the experience has been good.  Cost is about $15/month for the host computer, but access can be given to anyone.  Only drawback so far is that must disconnect from remote mode when doing File Transfers. pcAnyWhere allows transfers to work in background while still working in remote mode. 

pcAnyWhere also has a web based remote connection to any host version 10.5 or higher.  But unlike LogMeIn, the web version allows NO file transfers at all.