secure remote desktop option?

Kieran28 · 26 Sep 2020

I'd like to set up a way to remotely access my mom's laptop so I can help her with random minor issues using windows and the internet when I'm not at her house. I was looking into installing the RDP wrapper to enable remote desktop on her Win10 PC, but then read that it's a common target for cyber attacks of various forms, and at 81, she's pretty gullible and susceptible to such attacks, so probably best if we don't leave that hole open.
So is there another option that is more secure, where I could view her desktop while she's logged in, and either take control or talk/walk her through some tasks? Also, in case it's important, I use Win10 pro from my home PCs.
TIA!
KC

hsehestedt · 27 Sep 2020

You could simply use the buil-in remote assistance features:

Get and Give Remote Assistance with Quick Assist app in Windows 10

BubbaW · 27 Sep 2020

I second what hsehestedt is recommending, Quick Assist. What I also share, given I would use Quick Assist with my 80 year old parents, is to prepare them as best you can beforehand ! One only has 10 minutes to type in code, which would pass fast when Mom was behind the wheel

bjproc · 27 Sep 2020

i've just done the same, but installed teamviewer

my last visit was to fix outlook as she wasn't getting any emails (she's 81) ended up being outlook wanted to start in safe mode, she never said that on the phone to me as it could've been fixed over the phone

Kieran28 · 27 Sep 2020

Teamviewer is one of two third-party options I was looking at, that and chrome remote desktop.
Thanks for the tips!

W10 Tweaker · 28 Sep 2020

Quick Assist worked great between my 2 laptops, both using Windows 10 Home version 1809. I look forward to using it the next time my Mom calls with a problem. She's 79 and I'm convinced she should work as a consultant to stress test phone support workers.

Samuria · 28 Sep 2020

New kid on the block Chrome Remote Desktop

cereberus · 28 Sep 2020

The key decision is if you want to setup unattended access. Here, remote user has a permanent service running in background and does not need to reply for you to connect. In worst case, yiu tell remote user to reboot pc, and as it runs a a service, you get control ecven before login.

Teamviewer does this.

Another great one is Anydesk.

I actually use Splashtop as its UI is bettee than the others imo. It does have a modest annual fee for internet access though.

However, if you set up unattended access, use a strong password, and even 2 factor acount authorisation.

Kieran28 · 01 Oct 2020

I set up quick assist, and showed her how to do it. Hopefully we'll be able to make it work next time she needs help.
Thanks all!