What is remote access?
Remote access solutions enable people to connect to a computer network from any location using another computer. The purpose is to be able to continue to use the organisations’ systems in order to retrieve information and send emails without the need to be office based.
How does it work in practice?
Once you find a wireless access point or another way of connecting to the internet, you will be able to log onto your organisations’ server or your PC. This means that can easily access files or control your PC as if you were sat in front of it, even if you’re not in the actual office
Why do I need remote access?
You probably need remote access on the basis that it will give your staff the freedom to access your organisations network and facilities when they’re travelling or generally ‘on the road’.
As a result they don’t need to worry about being in the office to carry out even the simplest of tasks, such as sending and receiving emails. Furthermore, you’ll be safe in the knowledge that everyone can still access information on their PC or your server (at home or at work) when they need to retrieve vital information.
What types of remote access packages are available?
The most simple (but slowest) is old fashioned dial-up, whereby using your laptop or PCs internal modem you can phone your ISP’s or company’s server and send and receive emails. Due to the growth of broadband this is thankfully becoming rare now, but it still needs to be considered as not all parts of the world have the same facilities.
The most common types of remote access packages are generally designed for you to access your company’s server(s) and use the information you require. It could also be a package that enables you to connect to your PC remotely and access the information as if you were actually sat in front of it.
What if I don’t want to carry a laptop with me – can I still get access?
Most systems will allow you to connect to your PC or server through public PCs, such as in an internet café, a library, through friends or colleagues. All you need is internet access.
Is it something that I can install myself?
There are some extremely good packages available that you can download and start to use straight away. Some even offer a free trial for a number of weeks, so you can get to know whether it is of real value to you.
How do I find the right vendors and partners?
Conjungo is a great starting point because it will let you search for a supplier according to your location, company type, size and whether they have the right accreditations. Furthermore, Conjungo is completely unbiased, lists most of the major vendors’ resellers, and it’s free to use.