Desktop Sharing Programs

• Desktop sharing programs allow employees to collaborate on projects remotely.illustration with personal computer and diagram image by Alexander Potapov from Fotolia.com
  
  Desktop sharing programs have become widely accessible and many are free to use. Some desktop sharing programs allow one user to access the desktop of a second user remotely to provide technical assistance. Others allow multiple users to share their screen and view others at the same time. There is a desktop sharing application to fit your needs, whether you are working with an office colleague on a presentation, attending class online or just socializing with friends.
  
  

Yuuguu

• Yuuguu is free, easy to use and allows you to access your PC or MAC remotely or instantly share your screen with anyone. Yuuguu's main screen is similar to a chat window that stores all of your contacts. Adding a new contact is as easy as typing in an email address. If your contact is not a Yuuguu user, they will receive an email with your screen-sharing invitation providing all of the information necessary to get started. Set up and configuration is easy. The program works well through firewalls, allows automatic login, has fast screen-sharing and has good sound capabilities.
  
  

TeamViewer

• TeamViewer is a fast and simple desktop sharing program that features remote control of PCs, file transfer, screen sharing and a chat function. You can run TeamViewer on both computers without running separate installation programs; automatic partner IDs are generated on each computer with the first use. After that, you will just enter a partner ID and the session connection will be established. TeamViewer offers 256-bit encryption for virtual private network use. Additional versions with more features are available for purchase, but the free version offers sufficient functionality for most users.
  
  

ShowMyPC

• ShowMyPC applications include remote PC access, desktop sharing, screen sharing and conferencing. No login, registration or special training is required to set up or use ShowMyPC, and the program is reliable and secure. Users can access files, programs and email remotely or broadcast webinars. The basic version is free, but an upgraded paid version offers businesses the option to use their own private server and customize the software.
  
  

Mikogo

• Mikogo is a free desktop sharing program that allows up to 10 participants to share their desktop simultaneously. It is a convenient application for large social groups or for hosting online meetings. Features include Web conferencing, remote control, screen sharing, pause transmission, file transfer and the ability to change presenters. No installation is necessary.
  
  

LogMeIn

• LogMeIn is a Web-based desktop sharing application that allows easy remote access to multiple remote computers. LogMeIn software must be installed on each computer prior to initial use. You can log on to your home PC as well as networked systems, and network access is secure. File transfer is as easy as copying and pasting from one computer to another. A Pro version is available for a monthly fee.
  
  

ScreenStream

• ScreenStream does not require any special software to use. All you need to do is open the program and click to turn on screen sharing. Installation takes just a few minutes. Your images can be viewed by anyone with a Web browser from any type of computer, although there is an option available to add an access code to secure the connection. The number of viewers is limited only by bandwidth.