How Desktop Sharing Works

Desktop sharing lets you share your computer desktop and applications with another user via remote access. There are many programs available that can help you achieve this, but they all work in pretty much the same way. Learn about how you can share your desktop with others for meetings, tech support, study groups and more.

What is required

In order to share your desktop, you need access to the Internet, a computer and software designed for desktop sharing; one popular desktop sharing program is TeamViewer, for example. The people with whom you plan on sharing your desktop also need to have computers with Internet access at their location.

How it works

If you have ever used a computer system with dual monitors, you probably have already experienced a low-tech version of desktop sharing. Essentially, a program, creates a digital port to serve as a the host for a digital display of what is on your screen. Other users can tap into this digital port and view your desktop. Some desktop sharing programs with advanced features allow other people to "control" your computer. This is helpful when working on collaborative art projects or brainstorming with digital web charts.

Sharing your desktop is a fast and easy option for long-distance meetings, online training sessions, collaborative projects or study groups. When you understand the technology and other requirements for desktop sharing software, you can easily troubleshoot any problems and get back on track in no time.