Remotely Access Your Computer with Google Chrome

Remote Computer Access with Chrome Remote Desktop

Various methods exist for remotely accessing your computer, such as utilizing TeamViewer and VNC. However, if you have the Chrome browser installed, you can achieve the same functionality using only a browser extension.

This solution is compatible with both Windows and OS X operating systems. Unfortunately, Linux users are not currently supported by Chrome Remote Desktop.

Obtain the Chrome Remote Desktop add-on from the Chrome Web Store. Click the "Add To Chrome" button, then confirm by clicking "Add" again.

Installation Process

The extension must be installed on both the computer you intend to access remotely and any machines you will use to initiate the connection. Begin with the computer you wish to control.

The extension is relatively large, approximately 22.6MB, but the installation process is swift. After installation, open a new tab to access the remote access tool from your list of installed applications.

Upon the first launch of Chrome Remote Desktop, you will be prompted to grant it permission to access your computer. Select "Continue," ensure you are logged into your Google account, and then click "Allow access."

Setting Up Remote Access

Chrome Remote Desktop offers two primary modes: providing remote assistance to another user or gaining remote control of your own computer. Click the "Get started" button within the "My Computers" section.

Then, click the "Enable remote connections" button to proceed with the setup.

For security purposes, you will be required to create a PIN. Enter and confirm a code consisting of at least six digits, then click "OK."

A User Account Control dialog may appear; click "Yes" to allow the necessary changes. Subsequently, re-enter your PIN and click "Confirm," followed by "OK."

Connecting to Your Computer

Now, focus on the machine you will use to control the first computer. Repeat the installation steps for the extension in Chrome. Ensure you are logged into the same Google account and authorize the extension's access.

Click the "Get Started" button at the bottom of the page. Your other computer should appear in the list. It is initially labeled with the machine's name, but you can customize this by clicking the pencil icon and entering a new identifier.

To initiate a remote session, click the name of the computer you want to connect to, enter the PIN you previously established, and click "Connect."

Using the Remote Session

You will then gain control of the remote computer as if you were physically present. A slide-down drawer at the top of the screen provides limited options.

The "Disconnect" button serves its obvious purpose. The "Send keys" menu allows you to transmit keyboard combinations to the remote machine without local interference.

The "Screen options" menu enables you to toggle full-screen mode and choose between displaying the remote desktop at its native resolution or scaling it to fit your browser window.