Try it, you'll like it!
Maybe click help then type in Remote Assistance.

I'm not sitting on XP but think right click myComputer, click properties, and look around there to allow it.

I use it mostly with MSN Messenger occasionally. Sometimes for way too long fixing stuff.

does this mean i go through the network set up wizard. that's the only thing i find for setting. Sorry i'm so ignorant to this.

Click start > help and support. You will get this screen which will answer your questions:

It says i can't use remote assistance using xp home edition.

If you both have msn messenger, now called something like Live Messenger. That'll will let you request Remote Assistance once you establish a messaging connection under the activities menu in the messaging window.

There are a couple places to disable it, but the help should tell you where,

If daughter has xp pro she can start a regular windows session of Remote Assistance with your xp home.

We both have the home edition.Both our computers say ( your current system settings prevent you from sending an invitation.)

Patches you could try Crossloop, linked below. I have used it a few times while trying to fix my sister's computer in Scotland from here in Canada.

Ridiculously easy to set up. Once installed on both computers the person needing the help actives the program and clicks on the 'Share' tab and they will see a 12 digit code. Then they give the other person the 12 digit code which the helper to be will insert in their window and you connect.

We do use Skype too so we can talk to each other during the process. Any VOIP will do of course.

Here is a link that might be useful: Crossloop

Thanks, we'll give it a try.

My son in law has used a program called logmein to work on my computer. It works great. I think it is a free download.... Sure has saved me from a mess twice..

I've been frustrated with Remote Assistance too. Thanks for the tips on Cross Loop & Logmein. Are they safe?

Mrs. C.

Well regarding Crossloop I have used it from Canada to my sister in Scotland often. Plus with a couple of other users with good results. As I said above, I use Skype too so I am able to communicate with the other person to explain what I am doing at any given time. Even my sister can get very nervous at times but being able to explain as we move forward works wonders. 10/10 for me

Logmein appears to be a version of VNC, an excellent remote control program originally created by Olivetti Research (now part of AT&T).

If you google VNC, you'll find a lot of different flavors of VNC.

Here is a chart comparing different remote desktop software.

I used VNC around 2000 or 2001 and was impressed with it at the time. If I remember correctly, you can use it cross platform (you don't need to do that, but it's possible to use a PC to control a Mac or Linux computer and vice versa).

I think TightVNC saves a lot on bandwidth.

When you ask if they're safe, it depends on what you mean. If by safe, you mean that it's not virus infected or spyware, the answer is yes. If you're asking if the traffic is encrypted, the answer is no. You can either use an SSH tunnel (but if you didn't know that already, you don't want to go that route) or use Ultra VNC.