It is a feature of Windows that started becoming available only in the later versions but it has now become a generic term for all kinds of remote computer support. This feature can be used to solve a computer user’s problem from a distance by another person on the same network or the internet.

The technician who will solve the problem can see your screen at their end and control your system with their mouse and keyboard. The usual online supports provided are removal of spy software and viruses, optimizing your system, any registry repair and most commonly device driver issues. As with everything in this world there are two sides to this also.

Advantages

  • Take a scenario where you are facing a complicated problem in your computer which you are unable to solve yourself and on top of it you do not have access to any repair shop nearby. You can call but you might not be able to follow what the technician is telling you to do, on the other hand if he or she can see for themselves there would not be any confusion at all. It is here that remote assistance becomes the eyes of the technician and your problem is solved.
  • It is very convenient to give access to the technicians to help solve your problem.
  • It saves you the trouble of unplugging your system as well as all connected devices and carry the computer to the repair shop.
  • It saves on repair cost even if the support technician is charging you it will be a lot less than if you took it the shop.
  • You can also use remote assistance to ask your friends and relatives who are tech savvy for support which of course will not cost you anything.

Disadvantages

  • The first and obvious disadvantage is the risk to security. There are numerous hackers waiting to grab the opportunity and create havoc.
  • All kinds of problems cannot be repaired by remotely. Physical damage and hardware problems have to be tackled manually only.