remote assistance...

I am excited about a new option that I just stumbled onto. The ability to help, and get help from others through the remote assistance option. For those of you that already know about this feature, forgive me. For those that don't, here's how it works.

Let' say you have a problem with your computer and you don't know how to fix it. Or, you don't know how to use a certain application like Excel. You can invite someone to view your computer and actually give them control so they can walk you through the process.

Obviously it will need to be someone you know and trust. And, it will need to be someone who as Windows XP at least.

As a school teacher, and part of a large district network, I have had several people help me on my school personal computer this way. I was sure that it was only because we were on the same network. But, as I found out, all of it can be done live over the internet!

On your start menu, open up All programs. On XP it is listed (remote assistance), on Vista it is located under Maintenance. You then have a choice to get help or give help. Choose one. I have found that saving a file "invitation" on the desktop and attaching it to an email works the best. Next, email a friend and attach the request for help. They will open the invitation and be able to see your desktop on their computer! Of course you will get a message asking if is OK for them to do this. They may also ask you, with your permission, to take control of your computer. They move your mouse, open your programs, and work on your computer from their location. Sounds crazy huh?

It's fascinating to me and since I have the time, I am learning quite a bit about "fixing" things.