control vista from xp over internet?
 

My father is getting a new Dell computer with Vista home. What's an easy to use program so that I can control his machine over the internet from my XP computer to help him set it up?

From what I've read, msft remote assistance does not work well from xp to vista.

I'd suggest gotomypc or logmein. Neither of them are free.

If you enjoy tinkering, you could still setup remote desktop connection, but it'll take more effort (dyndns, port forwarding etc...) VNC is also an option, but with the same hassles as remote desktop.

Did something change with logmein?

On your recommendation, I got it and the free version works great for Remote Control.

gotomypc offers a 30 day free trial (long enough to set up his machine) and logmein appears to be free (https://secure.logmein.com/welcome/g...ree/signup.asp). Which would be easier for my non tech savvy father to set up?

Would these programs allow me to send him files?

I enjoy tinkering, but he doesn't.

Only the pro/paid version of Logmein allows transferring files between the controlling and controlee computers.

I suppose I could use something else to send files.

Easy set up for controlee? Anything else I should know?

Couldn't be easier. Tiny program runs in the tray listening for connection request. When it gets one from the "Controller," it allows the Controller to take over. There is a plug-in for Firebox on the Controller end that makes the experience even more seamless. You as the controller can initiate a remote control session of the controlee computer and also open a chat window at the same time. (This is with the free version; I don't know what other bells the paid one has).

Woops :D

I never thought they'd keep the free version around. Thanks for the correction!

I worry about whether they'll stay in business. They're really pushing their paid version and have cut the price in half through 6/10, iirc.

Sound like the way to go. Thanks! :D

Filezilla seems adequate to transfer a few files.

Logmein
 

Thanks, guys, for this. It works fine and is exactly what I've been looking for.

logmein works fine for this in the free version and i do just this for many friends.

for file transfer, use skype. with remote control by logmein you can send from your own and receive at the other end!

I'm a big fan of gotomypc. And gotoassist.

I use logmein (free version) and their paid iPhone app.

To transfer files, I use sugarsync (paid account but a 2Gb is free). You can even sync folders between both computers if you'd like...