I am the most computer-savvy person in my family (other than my little brother) and my wife's family so I get hit up for computer support...often. I don't mind helping people, but it can lead to tedious/frustrating experiences. Let me introduce you to the best computer support application since...well, I don't quite know since what, but I'm referring to Remote Assistance.

Here's my latest use... Yesterday afternoon as I was wrapping up my day and getting ready to head for the sunset I received an IM from my step-dad. "Help, I was infected by Spy Sheriff and now I can't change my desktop background." (Here's a safe link to the wikipedia description of Spy Sheriff, which is spyware NOT anti-spyware!) I did a quick search and found the fix he needed, but it involved editing the registry which is not in his repertoire of computer skills. Within 10 minutes I had instructed him (via IM) how to enable remote assistance and send me an invite to help. 5 minutes later I had made the necessary changes on his computer (in San Antonio, TX) from my desktop at work (in Redmond, WA). Suh-weet!

If you need help or just want to see what it's all about, here is a complete step-by-step guide to using Remote Assistance.

~tod

tags: microsoft remote+assistance