How to Access Your Work Computer Files Remotely

If you're tired of lugging around bulky external hard drives or fragile computer discs, you might be interested in learning to access you work computer files remotely. When you travel extensively for your job or work from home on occasion, remote access is a handy tool that allows you to work from anywhere.

Of course, not everyone can access work computer files remotely. If your company is worried about guarding trade secrets or preventing other data leaks, they might have set up a company intranet that prevents remote access from occurring. However, other companies encourage remote access for employees or supply the necessary software to enable mobile employees to do their jobs.

Types of Remote Access Software

The type of software you use to access you work computer files remotely will depend on the level of access you require. According to PCSTATS.com, there are two basic categories of remote access software. One allows you to access the files located on a remote computer, while the other gives you control of the desktop for the remote machine. The latter provides a higher level of access, but it is generally slower and is not necessary for most basic remote connections.

Some operating systems, including Windows Vista, automatically enable remote access. This is what I use to access my laptop computer from my desktop computer when traveling; it is a simple, easy way to access work computer files remotely.

Remote Access Compatibility

In some cases, remote access requires compatible computers, such as two machines using the same operating system, and even the same version of the OS. The level of compatibility required depends on the remote access software you are using; the built-in remote functionality in Windows Vista, for example, requires that you connect to another computer using Vista.

If your company already provides a way to access your work computer files remotely, you will need to make sure that the machine you use at home is compatible with the software. Some companies provide their employees with computers, in which case this would not be an issue.

Remote Access Security

Keep in mind that any time you access your work computer files remotely, those files become more vulnerable. Your remote access software might include encryption functionality that scrambles data before transmitting it from the host computer to the client computer. If you will be accessing sensitive information, it is important to check with your superiors to ensure you aren't breaking any company rules.

However, remote access is a unique and efficient way to give employees access to work computer files while on the road or at home. If this is something you would like to do, the best course of action is to ask your boss which methods of remote access are allowed.