Remote Access

What is it?
Remote access is where a user can access another users system remotely from their own system.

Why is it used?
Remote Access is used for many different reasons for example, it is useful as it allows for an experienced user to help diagnose a problem without having to walk the inexperienced user through it. This can be more convenient. It can also be used to access data from another machine without physical access to the machine.

There are also cases where Remote Access is used maliciously. Remote access Trojans (RAT) are where remote access software is installed without user knowledge.

How do I use it?
Many different remote desktop/access software exist.

Microsoft Remote Desktop

Microsoft Remote Desktop is only available on Windows and gives the user the ability to connect from anywhere and access and modify files

TeamViewer

TeamViewer has support for Windows, Linux and even iOS and Android. TeamViewer is one of the most popular options for remote access. TeamViewer gives you the ability of file transfer, the ability to connect from mobile devices, Allows for multiple users to connect to a single host and many more.

Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop requires the use of Google Chrome, along with an extension from the Chrome Web Store. It is free for personal and commercial use. It is quick and easy to setup even for inexperienced users. Chrome Remote Desktop also doesn't have multi-session handling. If simultaneous connections are required then an alternate Remote Access software is recommended.

Thin Client
A thin client is a computer desktop terminal that has been optimised for remote access to a server-based environment. Thin Clients are usually void of hard drives. Thin clients are a cost effective way (as the hardware is relatively cheap) to create a VDI (Virtual desktop infrastructure).

Evaluation
Remote Access can be useful for an experienced user to try to diagnose a problem that an inexperienced user may have. Remote Access can have performance issues depending on many factors not just limited to the hardware on the machine. If using a GUI remote access software then you are very susceptible to Slow internet connection from either side impacting remote access performance.

Remote Access also has some security issues. Insecurely used remote access pose quiet a big risk especially in businesses where a malicious user could exploit the remote access connection to get deeper into an organisation. Since information travels over the internet it is possible for users to "eavesdrop". Establishing a secure remote access connection is very important.

Remote Access Trojans are where remote access software is used maliciously. To help reduce the threat of RATs ensure your antivirus software is up to date. If you suspect your computer has been infected with a RAT disconnect your computer from the internet so the remote intruder is unable to detect the security probe and initiate more damage. Sometimes it might be best to initiate a complete reinstall using a windows 10 ISO file