TeamViewer: free desktop sharing, remote access

German Developer TeamViewer GmbH is making the full version its flagship desktop sharing software free to non-commercial users. TeamViewer is a cross-platform appication that allows 'information sharing between two computers located anywhere in the world." The company says TeamViewer is easy to use, and supports screen and file sharing between firewalls without compromising security.

The software includes an "instant start platform" that generates a unique ID code which is sent to the receiving user via telephone or e-mail. A connection is established once the recipient enters the code. Traffic is encrypted using public/private key exchange and AES-256 session coding. Users can take control of another machine, display slideshows and presentations, or copy files and folders. This could prove especially useful for Mac users who frequently trade files with Windows-based machines.

"Whether people on the move need information --or home users simply want to share their photos and files -- desktop sharing solutions transform a home computer into a collaboration tool," said Dr. Tilo Rossmanith, Founder and Director of TeamViewer GmbH.

Commercial users can purchase one of three TeamViewer suites ranging from
$250 to $1400, depending on individual needs. Commercial users can integrate their company logos, or load the application on USB memory sticks. TeamViewer requires Mac OS X 10.4 and later, and works with all versions of Windows except Mobile and CE.