One of the biggest frustrations of living far from family is not being able to get help when your computer, tablet, or phone does something unexpected. But here is the good news: your children or grandchildren can now see your screen and control your device from anywhere in the world. Remote help technology has made the 'Can you come look at my computer?' call a thing of the past.

How Remote Help Works

Remote access lets a trusted person see exactly what is on your screen and control your device as if they were sitting next to you. They can click buttons, fix settings, install updates, and solve problems in real time while you watch and learn. You stay in control and can stop the session at any time.

The Best Remote Help Options

Remote Help Tools Compared

ToolWorks OnEase of SetupCostBest For
TeamViewer QuickSupportPC, Mac, phone, tabletVery easy — download and share codeFree for personal useOne-time help sessions
Chrome Remote DesktopPC, Mac, ChromebookEasy with Google accountFreeRegular help from someone you trust
Apple Screen SharingMac, iPhone, iPadBuilt into FaceTimeFreeApple device users
Windows Quick AssistWindows PCsBuilt into WindowsFreeWindows users needing help from Windows users
AnyDeskPC, Mac, phone, tabletEasy — download and share codeFree for personal useWhen TeamViewer is not available

Setting It Up (One Time)

Getting Ready for Remote Help

1
Choose a Tool With Your Helper
Call your child or grandchild and pick one tool from the list above. They will know which one works best for your devices.
2
Install the App Together on a Call
Have your helper walk you through downloading and installing the remote access app while you are on the phone together. It takes about 5 minutes.
3
Do a Practice Session
Before you actually need help, do a test run. Let your helper connect to your device and show you how it works. Seeing it in action removes all the mystery.
4
Write Down the Steps
Tape a card next to your computer with the three or four steps to start a remote help session. It might be: 'Open TeamViewer. Read the code to your helper. Click Allow.'
5
Keep the App Updated
Your helper can update the app remotely during your next session, so you never need to worry about it.

What Your Family Can Help With Remotely

  • Fixing error messages and pop-ups
  • Updating software and security patches
  • Setting up email or fixing email problems
  • Adjusting font sizes, volume, and display settings
  • Installing and configuring new apps or programs
  • Cleaning up files and freeing storage space
  • Troubleshooting printer or internet issues
  • Removing suspicious software or unwanted toolbars
92%
of common tech problems can be solved remotely by a knowledgeable helper
5 min
average setup time for a remote help session
Free
cost for all major remote help tools for personal use

Safety and Privacy

You are always in control during a remote session. You can see everything your helper does on screen, and you can end the session instantly by closing the app. Never give remote access to anyone you do not know personally — legitimate tech companies will never call and ask you to install remote access software.

Having a family member who can fix your tech from a thousand miles away is like having a mechanic on speed dial. Set it up once, and you will never have to suffer through a confusing error message alone again.