Owning a small business has many benefits, but it also comes with its own set of technical challenges. For instance, a lot of time can be wasted if you have any IT issues but don’t have local IT support to come and help you right away. Remote access solutions change that entirely.
By using remote access solutions like screen sharing, you can allow IT support to remotely help with many issues, saving considerable time and money. Let’s dive into how remote access software for businesses can benefit you.
What Are Small Business Remote Access Platforms?
Remote access platforms are tools that allow you or someone else to remotely connect to another device. While you can remotely access devices through a local network, this is usually done via the Internet over long distances.
Remote access has many uses, but in a business setting, it can be used to work remotely, connecting your personal computer to your work computer, for IT support, file access, and many others.
What Are They Used For?
- Remote IT Support: Having remote IT support only a click away from you is crucial to dealing with technical issues. Small businesses can’t afford to stay idle for long, and some issues can be time-sensitive. Remote IT support can be much faster, cheaper, and more efficient than a local one.
- File Access: Keeping files secure is key for any small business to thrive. Allowing others to remotely access and share files and documents can improve productivity. It also allows the collaboration of larger groups of people using the same files to work.
- Collaboration: Collaboration tools can significantly boost productivity. It enables several teams to work together on the same project. Leveraging teamwork is one of the main ways for small businesses to improve.
- Management of remote workforces: Efficient time and work management are crucial for small businesses to keep productivity high. Remote access platforms can help manage teams by tracking work hours, monitoring productivity, and facilitating communication. It also allows business owners to collect data to improve workflow.
- Remote Printing: Remotely printing documents can save a significant amount of time for your small business. Remote access platforms allow you to access your work printer and computer document files with ease. Everything is streamlined to help people who travel a lot but still need to deal with physical documents regularly.
Why Should a Small Business Consider a Remote Access Platform?
Although there are several benefits to using a remote access platform, small businesses can greatly benefit for a few reasons. For instance, collaboration tools like screen sharing can significantly boost productivity by allowing people to remotely access their work computer from home. This also improves teamwork by allowing people to directly help each other by connecting to a colleague’s computer to help them out.
Remote access platforms can also help save a lot of money through the use of remote IT support. This adds a lot of flexibility for your business, as you won’t need a huge tech department focused on IT support.
How Do They Work?
A remote access platform works by connecting a client to a host over a network connection. To start a connection, you must first send a request to connect to the host. Then, you must authenticate by entering a login and password. Sometimes there are other authentication steps for improved security. After this, a secure connection is established.
Once you’re connected, you’re free to use the device as if you’re physically controlling it. Your mouse and keyboard inputs get directly sent to the connected device, allowing for full control.
What Are the Key Components of a Remote Access Platform?
There are many features and key components that make remote access platforms stand out. Let’s list some of them:
- Secure Connectivity
- User Management
- Support for Multiple Operating Systems and Devices
- File Transfer Capabilities
- Collaborative Tools
- Performance Optimization
- Session Recording and Logging
- Scalability and Flexibility
- Integration with Existing Systems
- Comprehensive Support and Maintenance
Additionally, Consolidated Communications can help your business integrate Office 365 and Microsoft 365 for improved productivity.
How to Choose the Right Remote Access Solution for Your Small Business
A remote access platform can make your business significantly better. However, you should first consider budget, technical requirements, and special use cases before closing on any deals. Ensuring you have the perfect platform to fit all of your needs within your budget is essential for a small business.
When looking to purchase, consider the price differences and benefits between one-time purchases and subscriptions. Sometimes, investing a little more for better customer support and additional features can be worthwhile if your business needs them.
Consolidated Communications is a leader in Unified Communications and can also significantly improve your business with remote access solutions. Learn more about Consolidated’s Remote Access Solutions.