Get Computer Help Using Remote Assistance

 

If there is nobody to turn to for help when you have a computer problem, there is a way to get long-distance assistance.  As a service to Carefree residents, whether at your summer home or in Winter Haven, I will be happy to try and help you.  All you need is to have MSN Messenger (or Windows Live Messenger) installed on your computer, and a high-speed Internet connection.  Most computer owners use Messenger for ‘Instant Messaging’ between family and friends.  With this program you can chat using text, or make an audio call, or even a video call.  You can also use it to ask for remote assistance.  If you would like to take advantage of this procedure it would be best if you call me beforehand to discuss the problem and the remote assistance.  My telephone number is (613) 962-2973.  Here’s how it works:

  1. Make sure you are signed in to Messenger.  There should be a little green man in your notification area (a.k.a. the sys-tray, in the bottom, right corner of your monitor screen).
  2. Double-click on the green man so that you can see who is online.  You will need to add my ‘Instant Messaging’ address by creating a new contact.

This screen shot shows my main page when using Windows Live Messenger.  The layout may vary according to the operating system you have, and the version of Messenger.

Click here to add a contact.

 

 
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


  1. In the ‘Add a contact’ page, enter my Instant Messaging Address, as follows:
    davec43bv@hotmail.com
    In the Nickname box, enter Dave Clark.  No other information is necessary on that page.
  2. A message will automatically be sent to me, asking if I agree to you adding me to your contact list.  Naturally, I will agree, and you will then see my name listed among your online contacts.
  3. If you have a firewall installed (and you should), it will help speed up the connection process if you turn it off before the next step.  You can turn it back on immediately after the remote assistance ends.
  4. The next step is to ask for help.  Click on the Menu button on the main Messenger page.  Depending on the version, it is usually to be found somewhere near the top, right of the page.
  5. In the drop-down menu, click on ‘Actions’, then on ‘Request remote assistance’.  (I must appear ‘online’ for you to ask for my help.)
  6. Click on my name and then click OK.  That will send a message to me that you are requesting remote assistance, which I will accept.
  7. Once you have allowed me to see your screen, I will require control of your computer.  You will receive a message asking if you agree to me doing this.  As soon as you agree, I will have control of your computer and you will see me moving your mouse pointer.  You can disconnect and regain control at any time you want.
  8. An Instant Messaging dialog box is available at the side of your screen for you to type in any comments during the procedure.  This will avoid staying on the telephone with me…and incurring long-distance charges.

 

I hope that I can be useful to all Carefree friends by providing this service.  I have tried it successfully several times, both as the ‘novice’ and the ‘expert’.  Hopefully I will be able to fix your problem, too!