LapLink Gold 12.(remote access software)(Product/service evaluation)(Brief article)

Another PC-only product, LapLink Gold 12 offers connection options galore: modem, local network, hosted LapLink Internet

relay (the company's PC tracking service) and even physical cables like the USB 2.0 cable in the LapLink box (as well as parallel

and serial cables not included).

The consumer background of LapLink requires typing in serial numbers, registering for license keys and key installation before

getting started, raising the frustration level. The company sent a boxed product, but its enterprise version relies on the

same remote-installation process and doesn't include the cables.

The multiple connection options make it easy to use LapLink on local networks and remote computers behind unknown firewalls.

LapLink's Internet Locater Service and LapLink Internet options track PCs a couple of ways. Remote systems become visible

when the LapLink client software is running on them and connects back to LapLink's relay or directly to your administrative

console.

The online account to manage remote PCs is linked from a choice on the help menu. Local systems are much easier to connect,

with address books for one-click connections and a scan utility for PCs running LapLink software.

Once connected, remote systems can be controlled, files exchanged through two large Windows Explorer-like windows, IM and

voice chats are supported, and file synchronization between configured folder pairs can be triggered immediately. LapLink

includes free antivirus protection for transferred files, with a year's worth of signature updates.

There are no troubleshooting tools or PC information displayed in this edition. Slow screen updates make Solitaire all but

unplayable, even between locally networked systems.

Overall, LapLink's boxed tools to connect remote computers will make this edition a good option for companies supporting mobile

workers.

< Return to remote-test introduction