TeamViewer for Windows

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TeamViewer is safe, free, proprietary software that allows for desktop sharing, remote control, online meetings, and file transfer. It’s a comprehensive and secure PC access application that is highly recommended for IT Managers. The software is about allowing employees to collaborate seamlessly through their computers.

Features for virtual collaboration

TeamViewer offers a remote access solution that can be expanded so that multiple people can be working through their computers, collaboratively. The software offers a virtual alternative so that brainstorming sessions and meetings can happen between team members without having to gather anywhere physically.

The software has impressive multi-platform capabilities, an advanced security model, and offers a comprehensive set of remote access features.

Installation

To install TeamViewer on both host and guest systems, you have to install a small 23 MB application. You can also run the program through web-based control, without any installation required. You’ll be asked if you want to add a TeamViewer printer driver for remote printing.

Users can also add a TeamViewer VPN for added security. Another option you’ll have available is to integrate the interface with Microsoft Outlook. In order to set up the program, you’ll need to sign up for an account.

The process is relatively straightforward and does not require much time. Once the app is installed on both ends, you’ll be able to establish a link and access the remote computer as well as the program’s comprehensive feature set.

Interface

The TeamViewer interface mimics Microsoft Remote Desktop in many ways. It’s clean and easy to navigate. It provides a central control bar where you’ll have easy access to any actions. You’ll see a small taskbar window that pops up and users to access all of the tools. You’ll also be able to see who is controlling the computer.

All of the activity on the account is logged for reporting through the application’s web portal. All the registered endpoints are maintained there. The web portal also has a straightforward design, with the menus on the left and the information panels on the right.

What is TeamViewer used for?

As far as remote access tools go, this program offers a comprehensive set of features. You can easily work with others by using the chat feature with notes, VoIP or phone, annotating the screen, and inviting others into a session.

The app can record audio and video. You can even initiate voice calls with your connection partner. You can also use TeamViewer to access remote scripts, capture screenshots and, transfer files up to 2GBs. For added defence, you can use it as a VPN for secure links. If you added on Outlook integration, you'd be able to schedule meetings and webinars.

Users can also make telephone, VOIP, and video calls and create presentations for easy sharing. Instead of having to huddle around a computer physically, this virtual desktop allows you to do this from your own respective system.

A remarkable aspect of this remote connection tool is that you can build on to customise the system to fit your organisation’s needs. The system supports cross-platform access across Windows, Linux, Mac, Chrome OS, Android, Windows Mobile, iOS, and Blackberry devices.

TeamViewer has a top-of-the-line multi-monitor support system where you can see each monitor individually as a super desktop; this makes it easy to navigate between sessions. For the workplace, this is convenient, considering you can have many sessions open to all of the computers that you need to control.

Security

The software has a complex and thorough security model. All traffic uses an AES 256-bit encryption and an https/SSL, which means that it is difficult for anyone to intercept unencrypted data passed over the internet or LAN. There’s also a 2048-bit RSA private/public key that’s exchanged between the sessions and the centralised master servers.

TeamViewer also has two-factor authentication. You can choose ‘Trusted devices’ for lockdown solutions and add security. Any unusual activity triggers a password reset only via the email of the account owner.

Software plans and costs

The advanced tools that TeamViewer offers don’t come without a cost. There are three different plans that you can choose from. The plans are billed annually, based on a monthly fee. If you need to add mobile capabilities, you’ll be required to purchase an additional package that’s charged annually.

The TeamViewer free ‘Personal Plan’ is designed with minimal remote access features. You’ll have access to capabilities that will allow you to connect with friends and family, but file sharing and other tools are limited.

The ‘Single User’ plan is a solid option. You’ll have access between one user and unlimited computers, though all with only one concurrent session. The ‘Multi-User’ account offers a premium license and will give you similar access, for multiple licensed users.

The team plan is a bit expensive, but with a corporate license. This license is similar to the others but allows for three concurrent sessions and more remote capabilities. Three as a maximum number of concurrent sessions is rather low and doesn’t fit the needs of those who need to scale up. If IT managers need access to many sessions at once, they’ll have to pay to upgrade.

Those seeking a free alternative to TeamViewer should look into AnyDesk, Chrome Remote Desktop, or LogMeIn. Many of these programs are not as powerful, but they are much cheaper.

The standard in remote control

TeamViewer offers some of the best remote access solutions available, regardless of its few drawbacks. In terms of functionality and performance, the tool makes it easy to work across devices and platforms. It’s designed to bring workers together and can do just that. Connect with remote computers and collaborate online.

Despite its hefty price-tag, this program remains the leader in global remote connectivity solutions. If you’re looking to test out the program, you can sign-up for the TeamViewer free plan for personal use. The latest version offers enhanced communication, security, and file-transfer features. There is an update released annually.