CrossLoop

CNET Editors' review

by: Seth Rosenblatt on September 29, 2008

CrossLoop provides a quick, easy, and completely free way to give a colleague, a friend, or a relative access to your computer. After installation, your PC will be assigned a 12-digit access code each time you start the program. You then give that number to another user to virtually share your desktop. Once connected, that user will have full access to your machine.

The odd nature of sharing a desktop cursor and the inability to add multiple users makes CrossLoop illogical for proper business presentations. However, the complete system access and 128-bit encrypted connection combine to create a great solution for low-budget, long-distance tech support. Guests can use any app and save files on your computer, as if they were sitting in front of the machine. No router configuration is required--a big plus. File transfers are now supported, but the purpose here remains collaboration: CrossLoop doesn't work without explicit permission from the host.

Since simplicity is a key attraction, it lacks more advanced features, and the connection must be made in two minutes or it times out. While the interface and the features are simple, CrossLoop offers a secure and fast method for two users to collaborate on one PC.

 
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Publisher's Description

From CrossLoop:

CrossLoop is a free, secure screen-sharing utility designed for people of all technical skill levels. CrossLoop extends the boundaries of traditional screen sharing by enabling non-technical users to get connected from anywhere on the Internet in seconds without changing any firewall or router settings. It only takes a few minutes to setup and no sign up is required. Security is built into all aspects of CrossLoop.

Session data is encrypted at the end-points before being sent using a 128-bit encryption algorithm and a randomly generated 12-digit access code. CrossLoop includes file transfer support, and switch control feature. Crossloop Marketplace adds creation of a free CrossLoop accounts to create a dynamic public profile page, reserve your custom CrossLoop URL, view your session history, as well as widgets to promote yourself as a tech support specialist.

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All User Reviews

Results 1-10 of 89

  • 4.0 stars

    "works Great"

    November 16, 2011  |   By regkaz

    Version: CrossLoop 2.81

    Pros

    My dad is out of state and often has computer questions. I've been using Crossloop for a couple of years to take over his system and make repairs. Connecting is quick and easy.

    Cons

    Dad still asks me, "Should I click to permit connection?".

    Last time I checked it still asked if you wanted to create an account. The "skip" option is often missed by the person you're trying to help who suddenly gets confused as to why they need an account.

    Summary

    Saves gas money on personal visits for basic computer repairs.

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  • 5.0 stars

    "Excellent!"

    October 31, 2011  |   By big80s

    Version: CrossLoop 2.81

    Pros

    Quick, simple, easy to use!

    Cons

    I haven't found any yet.

    Summary

    I spent over an hour unsuccessfully trying to connect to my Mom's desktop through Windows Live Messenger to assist her with a computer issue. In frustration, I did a Google search, and found this product. CrossLoop connect was installed on both computers, and I was able to see and control her desktop in less than 5 minutes. Thank you for a simple, easy to use product!

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  • 4.0 stars

    "Very simple to use."

    August 31, 2011  |   By wa51yjo

    Version: CrossLoop 2.80

    Pros

    Great help over internet in fixing my friends PC problems. Vista to XP

    Cons

    Was a little confused initially as to who did what to establish the connection but once I read the instructions correctly it was straightforward.

    Summary

    Certainly good for the use to which I put it. The lack of file transfer in the free edition could be a hiccup but, you can't have it all for free !

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  • 3.0 stars

    "Simple remote connection"

    August 1, 2011  |   By fred64ha

    Version: CrossLoop 2.80

    Pros

    Easy to use. Site sets up a peer to peer secure connection.

    Cons

    no file transfer capability in the free version. Slower that teamviewer. free version

    Summary

    I was checking out remote access products to support friends and family. Crossloop free worked, but had no file transfer. TeamViewer was just as easy to use, seemed quicker and included file transfer (not the fastest file transfer), but good enough for my needs.

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  • 3.0 stars

    "Good for casual tech support controlling or viewing"

    July 30, 2011  |   By gjg47

    Version: CrossLoop 2.80

    Pros

    It is free and It works on XP and Win7 allowing control by the other party if desired.

    Cons

    Controller had trouble moving the mouse to the edges of the screen

    Summary

    I recommend it for casual use.

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  • 5.0 stars

    "Fantastic free programme for solving problems from afar"

    April 18, 2011  |   By andrewsmum

    Version: CrossLoop 2.75

    Pros

    crossloop is ideal for anyone who knows a competent computer friend whom they trust as they have complete access to your computer. It is easy to set up and use, much easier than the setup that comes with windows.

    Cons

    There are no cons as far as I can see as long as you trust the person you choose and that person knows how to fix your problem.

    Summary

    I love crossloop it has made my life much easier on the computer. My son is a computer wizzard and helps me out when needed. I must admit it was very odd at first watching my curser wizz around when not using it myself but you soon get used to it. Thanks cnet.

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  • 4.0 stars

    "Easy to use for tech support"

    March 15, 2011  |   By jerryjw

    Version: CrossLoop 2.74

    Pros

    Can use for tech support for family, friends, and customers. Seems to be secure as each time of use the share number is different.

    Cons

    Its confusing to some who are not tech savy to 'log in' before we start our session. That extra step sometimes will halt the session while I'm explaining at this point just ignore. That could be done away with.

    Summary

    Very good product to use. Saved me a lot of time on travel for small problems.

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  • 5.0 stars

    "Cheaper than gas! LOL Great product!"

    November 1, 2010  |   By father_ted_fan

    Version: CrossLoop 2.74

    Pros

    This is great for helping friends and family that don't live nearby.

    Cons

    Haven't found anything I didn't like about it yet....

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  • 4.0 stars

    "Ease of use for both parties"

    October 12, 2010  |   By Pekoot

    Version: CrossLoop 2.74

    Pros

    No passwords to remember

    Cons

    Speed of use sometimes a problem

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  • 5.0 stars

    "Great product, perfect for offering tech support"

    October 3, 2010  |   By mikefrommilwaukee

    Version: CrossLoop 2.74

    Pros

    Price is great. Easy to use. Does exactly what's needed to trouble shoot.

    Cons

    Not much to dislike.

    Summary

    Very good product. Simplicity is its plus. Even my 86-year-old aunt is able to allow me access to her computer to troubleshoot it.

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Results 1-10 of 89

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