In previous articles we have discussed the importance of utilizing mobile strategies for recruitment. In the age of the smartphones and tablets, more and more potential recruits are relying on mobile platforms for submitting resumes and communicating with recruiters. Additionally, due to the popularity and low-overhead of shared workspaces and virtual offices, more and more recruiting professionals are also relying on mobile platforms to conduct business.
The downside is that some mobile platforms can be limited and may not give you access to all of the tools you need. For example, many tablets and smartphones have basic office apps installed, which can read and create basic documents, but if you need access to the project management software on your PC, you could be out of luck.
This is where remote access software comes in.
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This type of software enables you to leave the big clunky PC at home, and log on remotely using your lighter, more portable handheld device. You can also keep your master files on your office PC and use a laptop in the field to access them remotely.
How Remote Access Works
Remote access uses a Wi-Fi or wireless internet connection to establish a remote connection with a target computer. The software comes in two parts: the client and host.
The Host Software. You install the host software on the target computer, such as your office PC, per the manufacturer’s instructions. Because you need to create a secure session, the setup will most likely involve creating a password that you would use to remotely access the host computer, and configuring what files and processes the clients can access on the host computer.
Once you have installed and configured the software, your PC is ready to accept remote connections. To make it work, you need to leave your computer on, with the host software running, so that it is ready to accept login sessions. If you turn your computer off, or forget to launch the host software, you will not be able to access your computer remotely.
The Client Software. You would install the client software onto the computer or mobile device that you use to access the host. You may need to do some minor setup to help the client software find the host computer, and allow the client access.
To make it work, you simply have to make sure you are connected to the internet and launch the client software to log into the host.
Once you have connected to the remote computer, you can operate that computer as if you were sitting right in front of it.
This enablesyou to keep all of your important files in a central location and access them from anywhere that you have an internet connection.
The Cost
The cost of the service varies by provider. Some services have a monthly fee while others offer yearly rates. Some services also offer a free or trial service to help you determine if remote access is right for you.
The cost depends, in part, on what services you get in addition to the remote access. For example, a service that only provides the software would cost significantly less than a service that provides the software plus tech support.
Additionally, some services come with a set number of licenses, which is the number of machines onto which you can install the software. If you need more than the set number, you may have to pay an additional fee for more licenses.
Ultimately, if you wish to remain competitive in the mobile age, then having good, reliable, remote access software is a crucial part of a successful mobile computing strategy.
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