What Is Remote Access?

Date First Published: 11th June 2022

Topic: Computer Networking

Subtopic: Network Services

Computer Terms & Definitions

Difficulty Level: 3/10

Learn more about what remote access is in this article.

Remote access is the ability to access a computer or network from another geographical location using a separate computer, a remote access program, and an internet connection. This allows users to remotely control the computer as if they were sitting behind it, regardless of their distance and location.

Remote access is more than just connecting to a computer. It is the ability to control it once the connection has been made. In order for a remote access connection to successfully be established, the local computer and remote computer must both have remote desktop software installed and be turned on. In addition, any firewall that protects the network of the computer must be open in order for most remote desktop programs to communicate with other computers. If a software firewall is running, the port required by the program must be opened in the firewall.

Remote Desktop Programs

Remote desktop programs are required to remotely access another computer. Both computers have to have the remote desktop program installed and be turned on. They may require users to enter an ID and a password to remotely connect to another computer.

Some remote access programs include:

• TeamViewer – A remote desktop program that enables two computers to connect to each other. The display of the remote computer is shared on the local computer, which is the one that accesses the remote computer and the remote computer can be controlled once the connection is established by entering the TeamViewer ID and associated password. TeamViewer is free for personal use, but for business use, a monthly fee is required.
• AnyDesk – A remote desktop program that enables users from any geographical location to remotely control a computer. AnyDesk is free for personal use, but for business use, a monthly fee is required.
• RemotePC – A popular proprietary remote desktop program that allows a local computer to connect to a remote computer from anywhere using secure remote access.
• Zoho Assist – A free remote desktop program with enhanced security, including two-factor authentication, 256-bit AES encryption, and more.
• Chrome Remote Desktop – A remote desktop program developed by Google that enables a user to remotely control another user’s computer or share their screen. It requires the Chrome browser and a browser extension.
• Windows Remote Desktop – A remote desktop program developed by Microsoft that allows users to connect to a remote PC over a network connection.
• LogMeIn – A remote desktop program that allows users to remotely access multiple computers from anywhere in the world. It was developed by GoTo, a software company.

Advantages and Disadvantages Of Remote Access

• It eliminates the need to travel to remote computers that are far away. Instead of spending a long period of time travelling to use another computer, remote desktop software can be installed on both computers and the computer can be remotely controlled. It is useful when technical support professionals need to help users resolve issues with their systems.
• Most remote access programs also support the sharing of files between local and remote computers.
• Most remote desktop sessions are secure since they operate over an encrypted channel, preventing unauthorised users from viewing the session by listening on the network.

• There are security risks. Remote access by attackers can allow them to gain complete control over a computer system, allowing them to steal sensitive information, send junk mail, spread malware, and perform other malicious actions. Therefore, it is only recommended to give remote access to trusted users or people that you know.
• It requires an internet connection at all times. If the internet went down, the remote computer would be inaccessible and a remote access connection would not be made.