CNET Editors' review
The name might be LogMeIn, but the motto should be SignMeUp.
The fact that it's free to use for multiple remote PCs, with reasonable monthly plans if you need more--five computers for $20 per month or $200 per year--makes this remote-access program instantly appealing. The program differs from its competitors in that the application runs in your Web browser. If you're running Firefox, it asks to install a plug-in and then opens an emulator of the remote PC in a new window. If you have a lot of tabs open, LogMeIn will slow down your browsing and possibly your CPUs clock speed a bit.
The control window gives you some standard options such as Ctrl-Alt-Del (which kills the connection) and changing the view settings, as well as tabbed access to adjust the connection setting. The 256-bit SSL encryption and dual passwords--one for the program and one for the remote PC's log-in--are welcome protections.
You must upgrade to take advantage of the file transfer and synchronization abilities, but creative users should be able to find ways around that restriction for small files. Still, for the functionality and the price, LogMeIn is an excellent program.
Publisher's Description
From LogMeIn:
LogMeIn Free includes: access from any Internet-connected Web browser; access to a Windows PC or Mac, remote control and desktop viewing, copy and paste between computers, Wake on LAN, reboot/reconnect (including safe mode), basic reports (remote access sessions and user access), Chat, AES 256-bit encryption, SSL/TLS intrusion detection, IP address lockout. No need for firewall, router or proxy configuration. No requirement for remote PC admin rights.
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All versions:
4.1 starsout of 513 votes
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Current version:
4.0 starsout of 35 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"barely acceptable"
Version: LogMeIn Free 4.1.157
Pros
free, moderately straightforward installs
Cons
1) on logmein's own website, you must search for the free version. The "download free" button is the "free to download" YOU MUST PAY (after 30 days) version.
2) the screen size of the host is too small.
3) the mouse buttons do not work very well when on the hostSummary
VNC is just as easy to install, and no "confusing" (let's not say the word "deceptive") choices between paid & free versions. Also, no screen size problems.
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"If you have a secondary account you are screwed"
Version: LogMeIn Free 4.1.157
Pros
None if you are a secondary user...
Cons
I wanted to use this to remotely access my desktop since I had a good experience with this program in the past; however, at that time i was set up as a secondary user and that means I cannot use my email address anymore unless the people who own the primary account remove my email. Well, those people are long gone and I have no way of contacting them. I looked on the LMI forum and while others have had the same problem they have received no help. I call LMI and have been on hold for over 30 minutes...enough time for me to read reviews of TeamViewer, install it and start using it.
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"Good Product, but file transfers would add a lot"
Version: LogMeIn Free 4.1.157
Pros
Overall you can't ask much more from a free product. For real serious remote access you can do better with GoToMyPC. At times when you need a temporary solution to access someones PC to help them in a pinch it is can be great.
Cons
Slow at times, display is not nearly as clear as if you are using Windows Server Remote Desktop or GoToMyPC, both based in Citrix Technology. File transfers and screen resolution and clarity plus remote printing all can be done with better products, albeit programs you pay for. The overall fuzzy display would keep me from making a purchase. The installer would be better if you could create an install package to someone that would allow you to get one the computer once they install it, without having to get them to setup a machine account etc.
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"Great product"
Version: LogMeIn Free 4.1.157
Pros
File manager is a real plus
Cons
Interface is a bit klugy
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"Great for Tech Support or Training"
Version: LogMeIn Free 4.1.157
Pros
Secure, easy to change passwords and access codes.
Actually seeing the other screen makes training easier.
Providing tech support is a breeze. I've worked on computers all over the world to repair them.
I live in the US and have taught people how to work with a program in Asia and in Europe.Cons
Constant upgrade requests.
A slow connection on either end can keep the connection from working or cause it to disconnect as it times out.Summary
Log me in free is great for casual users who don't need to transfer files or print to a local printer from a remote computer.
Very few people will need the pro version, but it is nice to know that it is available if needed.
After reading some of the other "reviews" I think they need a better understanding of the service before they should comment.
If you have a slow connection, it will be slow.
You can use your current email address, you don't need to create a new one.
The many steps to log in is a security issue.
The free version is free. No money required. It does cost money for the pro version, but is not that expensive considering the benefits. Most people do not need the pro version.
If all you want it for is file transfer, use a free ftp account instead. -
"Works well, but limited."
Version: LogMeIn Free 4.1.157
Pros
Connects to remote computer as advertised.
Cons
Does not allow transfer of files using the Free edition.
Summary
My reason for trying this program was to transfer files. This went smoothly but the Free edition doesn't allow file transfer. I prefer to use TeamViewer because of this limitation.
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"Giant sucking sound - from my wallet."
Version: LogMeIn Free 4.1.157
Pros
none that I can think of now.
Cons
The company has additional billing policies that is not a part of their Terms and Conditions, that cost me double what I thought I would pay.
Summary
Not a good value.
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"Excellent way to connect to friends and family"
Version: LogMeIn Free 4.1.157
Pros
Easy to use
Connects quickly and easilyCons
Pro product is too expensive
Free version does not have any kind of file transferSummary
I use this product often to connect to friends and family and help them out with computer questions and issues. It works great and the price is right.
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"Worked great for me!"
Version: LogMeIn Free 4.1.157
Pros
Quick, easy, affordable!
Cons
Haven't experienced any yet.
Summary
For the price, hello, it was FREE -- it did everything I needed! I'll continue to use it!
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"Works great!"
Version: LogMeIn Free 4.1.157
Pros
Some of the people that I provide support to live over a thousand miles away. It is easy to get them to start it up (or install it, if necessary) so that I can get control of their PCs.
Cons
Nothing that I can think of.
Summary
If you have distant friends and relatives that you want to help out, or you want to access your home PC while you are traveling, this is a great way to do it.
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