DesktopNow

3.0 stars

"Good program but...desktop part is broken.."

May 28, 2013  |   By mootrix

Version: DesktopNow 1.07

Pros

Easy to use especially when used in an internal environment.(ie LAN)It even tries to help with port forwarding!

No need for any client side program, which mean you can access files with almost any device that has a browser! (provided you have the correct password/email address.

Small file size: Less than half a meg!

You can download files as well as upload files!

Supports secure access via TLS/SSL (untested)

Access files from you local Network(LAN) and even the Internet!
(Didn't test download folders as a zip, but apparently supported, requires addtional download of infozip.)

Includes adequate offline and even online help(IMHO) To get started. SO you shouldn't be in the dark for long.

Cons

The 'Desktop' part is broken:I couldn't for the life of me use the remote access features to control my computer even when using a browser in the same local network! (Maybe its just me?)
From what I have seen the (remote)desktop feature is too slow to allow remote controlling, it takes too long to refresh the screen even when the frame rate is adjusted both ways.

Asks to install additional programs and even toolbars- not a good idea-if you don't read the installation windows correctly you might automatically download the additional programs, as some are checked for install automatically.

The program may need to download an additional components, if I'm correct this is the openssl component that helps to create a secure connection between the devices connected and/or the infozip.exe for downloading folders as zip files-it would be better if they included these programs as part of the installation instead of separate downloads.

Summary

This program has 2 primary functions. One is to allow remote control of a computer using just your browser and the other is to access files remotely also using your browser(also upload files too!). From what I have seen it fails at the first task but does well enough of the second that I would recommend it to anyone who wishes to access his/her files remotely. What I would be cautious about is trying to use this in any sort of work related environment as it can be hard to find out how safe this program is.

Also be careful when installing programs like these as they often ask if you would like to download extra programs and even toolbars, not a good idea if you ask me.

If you wish to use this program, use it for its ability to download and even upload files to your remote computer. Also uncheck any unwanted programs that are suggested to you when installing this program. Then you will have a nifty way to access your files remotely. Also the program will ask that you create a password and provide an email address to use on the remote device that needs to access your computer. Make sure to use strong passwords and maybe even non-essential email address when doing so, and you can always change these later if you need to.

Note:You don't need to have any sort of online account to use this program. :)

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