Remote Support Services

This thing I came across by a good friend of mine has absolutely, positively blown me away. It’s called LogMeIn Rescue and it is the coolest thing since sliced bread. I signed up for the 2 week free trial and it has already “paid” for itself many times over. I was able to provide computer repair services to several satisfied clients. I cannot wait to purchase this thing.

Basically the way it works is I send an e-mail with a link or send customers to a special website (customizable later by me), and a PIN code. They input the PIN code, download and run the special program, and we’re connected. It’s as simple as that. Once it’s running, we can chat one on one in an AOL Instant Messenger-like chat window. I can then request various important functions such as the current PCs resource load (CPU, memory, hard drive space used, etc), programs that are running, and even take complete control of their desktop — all with their permission first of course. The best thing of all is this is safe and extremely secure, as it uses 256-bit encryption to transmit information back and forth between me and the client.

What I envision doing in the the very near future is implement a website that is an extension of www.neuroncomputers.com and have clients be able to provide their information and click “Connect”. Initially, I will just offer instant connect access and ask for billing information post-session. In the future, I will accept credit cards and offer the option to purchase “prepaid minutes” or flat-rate services such as “Set up your music player” or “Install your office suite program”.

It is so amazing how technology has progressed to this. With Windows Vista coming out very, very soon (if it hasn’t already — I’m so behind with that), then there will be even more of a need for remote support.