Guide on How to Operate Your Computer Using Your Smartphone
COMPUTER – Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to operate your computer using your smartphone.
Have you ever experienced the frustration of searching for a file during a class or work meeting, only to realize that it’s stored on your home computer? This situation can be daunting, especially when time is of the essence.
While you could ask someone else to find and send you the file, or employ complex methods if you’re tech-savvy, there must be a simpler and safer solution.
There are various scenarios where you might need to reach your desktop remotely. Perhaps your files are stored on the hard drive rather than in the cloud, or you require access to a media file that isn’t stored elsewhere. Fortunately, there are secure methods to remotely access and manage your computer using your smartphone – you just need to be aware of them and understand how to use them.
Chrome Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop is a viable solution for remotely accessing and managing your computer. This no-cost service simplifies the process of accessing your computer from your smartphone.
To enable remote access, you just need to add the Remote Desktop extension to your computer, ensuring that it can be accessed from another device. All sessions involving remote desktops are securely encrypted.
Whether you need to log in to your personal or work computer from a different location, or if you find yourself troubleshooting issues on someone else’s computer, Google Chrome Remote Desktop is a versatile tool. It caters to users with diverse needs, and you can utilize it through the Chrome browser with the Remote Desktop extension. Additionally, there’s the option to download the Chrome Remote Desktop app on iOS or Android for added convenience.
To set up Remote Desktop on your computer:
1. Begin by adding the extension to your computer to permit access from your other devices.
2. Launch Chrome.
3. Enter remotedesktop.google.com/access in the address bar.
4. Click the download button resembling a downward arrow located under “Set up remote access.”
5. Adhere to the on-screen instructions for downloading and installing Chrome Remote Desktop.
To access a computer remotely:
1. Open Chrome on the secondary device you’re using to connect to your computer.
2. Type remotedesktop.google.com/access in the address bar.
3. Click “Access” to choose the desired computer.
4. Input the necessary PIN to access the target computer.
5. Select the arrow to establish the connection.
6. Close the tab or go to Options > Disconnect to end the remote session when you’re done.
Microsoft Remote Desktop
Microsoft Remote Desktop operates in a manner akin to Chrome Remote Access. When the necessity arises to connect to a separate computer from a distant location, Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Connection tool facilitates this capability.
Utilizing this service, you can retrieve files, launch applications, or perform various tasks remotely. It enables access to multiple computers within the same network and is compatible with VPNs.
Integrated into Microsoft Office, this service is also accessible on non-Windows devices by downloading Microsoft’s RDC app. The app is compatible with Mac, iOS, and Android platforms, allowing users to access and manage a computer remotely.
To set up Remote Desktop:
1. Ensure you have Windows 10 Pro installed or the corresponding app downloaded.
2. Go to Start > Settings > System > Remote Desktop.
3. Click on “Enable Remote Desktop.”
4. Take note of the PC name listed under “How to connect to this PC.”
To use Remote Desktop on your mobile device:
1. Open the Remote Desktop app.
2. Enter the name of the PC you wish to connect to.
3. Choose the added remote PC name and wait for the connection to be established.
TeamViewer
TeamViewer provides an alternative for remotely managing a computer from your mobile device, and in many instances, it’s free for noncommercial users. This application facilitates Internet-based remote access and support, enabling you to connect to any PC or server and control it from any location.
To install the TeamViewer software:
1. Download and install the TeamViewer app on your Android or iOS device.
2. On the target computer, download TeamViewer QuickSupport.
3. Input the ID provided by the QuickSupport app into the designated field and establish the connection.
To remotely connect with TeamViewer:
1. Open TeamViewer on your secondary device and log in.
2. Select the desired computer from the My Partners list.
3. Close the window to conclude the session.
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