Previously, I wrote an article about six free remote desktop and screen sharing programs that you could use to take control of someone else’s computer in order to provide technical support.
One of the programs in that list was CrossLoop, a cool program that includes unique features to set itself apart from other screen sharing solutions. I like CrossLoop because it serves two functions: free remote technical support for my family and friends plus a huge community of geeks that provide support at an affordable cost.
By default, when you go to the main site, you can start a search for your computer problem and a list of helpers that are currently logged into their accounts will pop up. It’s basically live technical support for any problem you might have.
For example, I searched for virus and I get a list of any helper that is currently logged on and that listed that problem as one of their areas of expertise. You also get stats on the person, such as how many sessions they have completed, how many customers helped, their ratings, and how much they charge for providing computer support.
Note that you can chat with the person before actually starting a paid session. That way you can describe your problem and make sure that the person knows how to solve it before wasting your time.
They also have a 48 hour money back guarantee which basically says that if the helper could not solve your problem or your problem continues after the session and within 48 hours of payment, your payment will be refunded. This is great considering if you called someone to your house or went to the GeekSquad, they will charge you no matter what the outcome is.
If you’re pretty technically savvy yourself and want to make money, you can create your own profile and start providing services. It’s pretty easy to get everything setup too.
You’ll have your own profile page that you can put on your business card, email to friends, add to your email signature, etc. All you have to do is download the client software and login in order to show up as a “live” helper.
But the cool thing about CrossLoop is that you can simply use to remotely log into another computer, without creating an account or finding a helper. In it’s most basic function, you can install the software on two computers, type in the Access Code that is on the Share tab of the remote computer, and click Connect to remote control it!
The program works through most firewalls and doesn’t require any type of configuration, such as opening ports on your router, etc. Overall, it’s an easy to use screen sharing app and one of my favorites.
The guys at CrossLoop also informed me that they are one of the finalists amongst 149 others out of 1,200 nominees for 2009’s TiE50 – a selection of the 50 best startups worldwide. TiE, The Indus Entrepreneurs, is world’s largest not for profit institution focused on promoting entrepreneurs with a global presence.
If you have used the program before, you can vote for them in less than a minute:
- Go to http://www.tie50.net/polling/
- Choose ‘CrossLoop’ under the Consumer Web column, which is the first one on the left
- Click on ‘Cast Your Vote Now’ at the bottom right
- Submit your email address and click on ‘Cast Vote’ and you’re done!
Hi !! I have used that program and its just a rubbish. It makes your pc slow and gives stupid errors and also it conflicts with visual studio versions. Teamviewer is much better, easy, and light. I prefer and recommend teamviewer as a Geek. Teamviewer is also free for personal use.