The term remote desktop software refers to the broad category of software that allows applications to be run remotely on a server while being displayed on a local terminal or monitor. A subset of this software is known as “remote control” software which allows a remote administrator to take over a computer. Remote file transfer software is another category as are applications that allow users to access applications and data that is stored on a remote computer.
Many IT support departments will use remote desktop software in order to troubleshoot problems with operating systems and software or to debug viruses and other issues on a laptop or desktop computer. Computer manufacturers, software and operating systems companies as well as large corporations which run proprietary software are likely to make use of remote controlling to help fix problems faced by customers and employees alike.
As cloud computing becomes the norm, more and more applications fall under the heading of remote desktop software, where the programs reside on centralized servers and are run on computers at multiple locations. When IT companies are no longer on site or employees are spread out in home offices, the ability for tech support to access a computer remotely becomes more and more essential. There are many affordable and fully scalable options available for remote controlling as well as remote file transfer software.