How To Access PC Remotely

Need to know how to access a PC remotely? There are many ways in which to access a PC remotely, as well as reasons why someone would want to do so. If you have both a desktop and a laptop and you travel frequently for business, being able to access your PC remotely is handy in case you forgot that important file for your business meeting. Or perhaps you have an adorable picture of your child that you want to show family in another state. With the right software, you can access your PC remotely from anywhere. There are two ways of accessing a PC remotely: using the Microsoft Windows built in Remote Desktop or using third party software. Using the Remote Desktop feature from Windows is relatively easy, though getting everything set up may be tricky for those who are not computer savvy.

1. Above all, make sure the connection computer allows for remote computer access. You can do this by going to the "Start" menu.
2. Look for "My Computer" and right click it. A list of options will appear. Select the "Properties" option, then "Remote Settings."
3. Make sure that the option to allow the computer to be controlled is selected, as well as the option under Remote Desktop to "allow connections." The first option is less secure (usually used if you are on a personal network or aren't very far from home) or the most secured network connection (usually for businesses).
4. Depending on the version of Windows, you may see a different screen after selecting "Properties." If using any form of Windows Vista or Windows 7, you will need to select "Remote Settings" from the left hand panel.

After ensuring you can remotely connect, you'll have to find the name of the computer you are connecting too. This is best done by entering in your IP address when Remote Desktop asks for a computer. To find your IP address:

1. On the computer you want to remote into, go to the "Start" menu and select "Run." If running a version of Windows Vista or Windows 7, you will need to type in "Run" in the search bar at the bottom.
2. In the new box, type in "CMD" and press "OK," or hit the "Enter" key. A new, black window will appear. This is the "command window."
3. At the blinking cursor, type in "ipconfig /all." This will give you a listing of all the network information for your computer. If you scroll towards the top, you should find what your IP address is. It will be something like 192.168.X.1XX, with the "X"s as the numbers assigned by your ISP company and the number your computer is. This is the number you will place in the Remote Desktop box.
4. Bring up Remote Desktop. Again, go to "Start," then "Accessories," then "Remote Desktop Connection." Again, if you're using Vista or 7, you can alternately just type in "Remote Desktop."
5. When the program begins, type in your IP address and press "OK." This should pop up a login screen, where you will type in your username and password for the computer you're remoting into.

If you aren't very comfortable with computers, you may just want to utilize a third party application. There are many; most are paid sites, but there are some free ones. These sites offer an array of different plans and programs, including using the service on your smart phone. If you just need to check your email or work on a project, this is a good application. The professional versions allow for remotely listening to music and even using a printer. You just need to sign up with an email address and download the software on any computers you want to remote into.