What Is Desktop Sharing Software?

Working remotely can make one feel isolated and lonely. More so, it can often seem difficult to join in company meetings because the ability to see the presentation is taken away. With the advent of desktop sharing software, this is no longer a problem. Desktop sharing software allows for remote access and remote collaboration on a person's computer desktop.

Remote access

Desktop sharing through remote access or remote log-in allows a user to connect to a desktop while not physically present at that computer. Most Windows computers have this function built in with a Remote Desktop sharing program, and the use of this program is free. It is only available on one network, though, so there are limitations. Another option that is open source is a VNC viewer, which is similar to Remote Desktop but works cross-platform. VNC tends to have even more capabilities than Remote Desktop, so this is ideal for accessing desktops containing licensed software.

Real-Time remote collaboration

Logging into remote meetings and having the ability to see the presentation is absolutely key for remote employees. Real-time remote collaboration allows for this to happen through desktop sharing via the internet. Also known as web conferencing, this is a type of desktop sharing software that allows one user to share his or her desktop with a specified group. The desktop sharing tools are passed from user to user via a conferencing tool. Popular versions of this include WebEx, which allows for a phone component and the capability for the conference to get recorded.

Desktop sharing software is not only a great tool, it is a necessary tool for any company that has employees off-site. Because employees can access desktops remotely as well as share desktops in a meeting, this type of software is perfect for companies of all sizes.