As of this blog post, we’re in the midst of some incredibly trying times. Among many other things, millions across the country are trying to adjust to a new lifestyle of working remotely and all that entails. Here are a few tips and tools to help with that adjustment.
Tools for Remote Connectivity
For many of us new to teleworking, working remotely means being able to connect to a mirror version of our office desktops for accessing files, folders and applications via something called Remote Desktop Software. There are a number of both paid and free tools available that will accomplish this in a browser window from anywhere with a network connection.
- Windows Remote Desktop Connection – Typically used to access networked server devices, this application is included with Windows 10 Pro. The interface is not as user friendly as some of the others on this list, but if you have the IP address, username, and password of your office desktop, this is a quick and easy solution. Included Windows 10 Pro.
- Chrome Remote Desktop – For Chrome users, there may not be a better option for remote connectivity than Chrome Remote Desktop. Once set up, Chrome Remote Desktop allows you to connect via a Chrome browser window from any network connected PC. It may not be as flashy or feature rich as other options, but hey, it’s free.
Download Here – https://remotedesktop.google.com/
- LogMeIn – One of the OG remote desktop solutions, LogMeIn is now the parent company for many of the remote access tools you’re familiar with including GotoMyPC and GotoMeeting. If your workflow necessitates more than just desktop access, LogMeIn’s suite of options may be the way to go. For simple desktop access, LogMeIn’s responsiveness and feature set make it an attractive option, especially for larger companies. Paid.
Get Started – https://www.logmein.com/
- Teamviewer – Well known for it’s prevalence in remote IT support circles, Teamviewer is another easy to use and highly featured remote desktop option. The catch: it’s free for individuals but requires paid subscriptions for companies.
Learn More – https://www.teamviewer.com/
Tools for Communicating with Teams Remotely
Perhaps the biggest challenge when working remotely is communication amongst teams and coordinating ongoing projects. When a quick in office chat isn’t an option, where do you turn? 
- Slack – An awesome instant messaging tool, Slack helps keep your email inbox free of clutter by facilitating quick direct and channel based communications. It’s easy to set up and totally free.
Download – https://slack.com/
- Asana – This project management tool is great for coordinating with medium to large teams to ensure tasks are completed and deadlines are hit. And since it’s web-based, you can access it from anywhere. Basic version is free with paid upgrade options.
- Zoom – There are tons of video chat options out there, but for call quality and functionality, our choice is Zoom. Their team based video conference feature may give you some Brady Bunch vibes, but it’s a great way to connect with your team in a meaningful way. Basic version is free with paid upgrade options.
Get Started – https://zoom.us/
PCs for working Remotely
Having the best tools on hand won’t help if your desktop or laptop isn’t up to the task. Luckily for you, this is where we step in. Here are our top picks:
Vector Z25 – Built in our Small Form Factor chassis, this PC Mag Best of the Year winner is the perfect home desktop for smooth operation and effortless reliability. Available in both AMD an Intel configurations to help you find the right balance for your workflow. Learn More- Vector Z35 – Our most popular Home & Office desktop, the Z35 is designed in our mid-tower chassis to offer more upgrade options like higher end graphics, additional PCIe devices, and multiple hard drives. This is the system we recommend for home content creators as well. Learn More
- NoteMagix M15 – This 15” ultra thin laptop is powered by Intel i5 and i7 processors, giving it enough muscle to handle even the most strenuous remote work tasks while still being mobile enough to go anywhere. Learn More
View our full line of custom desktops and laptops here, or contact our sales team at 804-419-0900 for assistance.
So what did we miss? Let us know how you’re staying productive while working remotely in the comments.
Josh Covington
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