Web2.0: CrossLoop.com

As you can imagine, I'm considered the "computer geek" by all of my friends and family. When you're given that title, you're also given the responsibility of answering questions about everyone's computer problems (for free). This is especially true for your parents, who like to inadvertently break things from time to time by trying to do things themselves. This wasn't a problem for me... until they moved thousands of miles away.

One day I received a call from my father, who needed some help installing a new printer. He was now 2000 miles away and I had no idea what type of router his new ISP had provided or what type of firewall blocking he was behind. I was trying to help him but it was really hard not knowing what he was seeing (or doing) on his computer.

CrossLoop solved this problem.

CrossLoop is a FREE secure screen sharing utility designed for people of all technical skill levels. It's built on VNC, which is a utility I'm already familiar with. But CrossLoop extends the boundaries of traditional screen sharing by enabling non-technical users to get connected from anywhere on the Internet in seconds without changing any firewall or router settings. It only takes a few minutes to setup and it's very easy to use.

Joining a session with my father enabled me to access his PC in Texas in a matter of seconds. I was able to effortlessly connect to his PC by him simply connecting to CrossLoop and generating a unique access code for me. I was then able to view his screen and share control of the mouse and keyboard.

If you're a "computer expert" or a "confused parent seeking help", you should check out this screen sharing alternative.

Filed in: CWS, Rochester, crossloop, pcanywhere, vnc