How secure is the GoToMyPC system? According to the company, the website itself is SSL-encrypted. The data stream, as well as the keyboard and mouse input, is secured with 128-bit encryption, which means the data is scrambled and can't be read in transit. There are other security touches to assure users. For instance, you can lock your remote PC's keyboard so that others can't use it.
Given recent news reports about "secure" e-commerce sites falling victim to hackers, no site seems secure these days. Still, only the password you use to get into the site will be stored on GoToMyPC's servers. To connect to your remote PC, a hacker would have to know a separate password not kept on the company's computers.
This solution may not be for dialup users. If a dialup user starts switching windows and opening large applications, the desktop viewer will exhibit a marked slowdown and delay.
It will cost anywhere from $14.95 to $19.95 a month to connect one PC, depending on whether you sign up for a monthly or an annual plan. If you'd like to sign up two PCs, it will cost $29.95 a month, again depending on the plan you choose. Boxed software such as pcAnywhere normally retails for about $180.
Summary: GoToMyPC alleviates inconveniences for home workers and mobile users with its unique and innovative services. But buyer beware: As secure as sites are, they are not bulletproof. (Just think back to the recent hacking of supposedly secure e-commerce sites.) The price is somewhat steep for average users, but if you can get your company to pay for it, we highly recommend it.
Pros: Web-based; small download; easy installation.
Cons: Many passwords; price is steep for average users.
Company: ExpertcityPrice: $14.95 to $19.95 a month for one PC, depending on service plan; one-month or 60-minute (whichever comes first) demo version available for free.
Available: Now
Category: Remote control software
Platform: Windows
Requirements:
Host (remote) computer -- Windows 95, 98, 2000, Me, NT, or XP; Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator 4.0 or later; "always on" Internet connection (cable modem, ISDN, DSL, or better); Pentium 300 MHz or better; 64MB of RAM.
Client computer -- Windows 95, 98, 2000, Me, NT, or XP; Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator 4.0 or later with all Java components enabled; stable Internet connection (cable modem, ISDN, DSL, or better).
