About a year ago I discovered method to remote access with VNC reverse connection. This method is very useful because not many clients that I connect to knows how to do port forwarding. The difference between normal and reverse connection is a client connects to a server through the server’s open port, but in the case of a reverse connection, the client opens the port that the server connects to.

Although it’s easy for people who knows how to do port forwarding but not everyone knows what is it and how to do it even after referring to step-by-step guide from PortForward.com website. If you’re wondering whether is it possible to remote control a computer without either party forwarding ports, yes it’s possible.

Easiest Remote Access with Crossloop
CrossLoop is a free, secure screen-sharing utility designed for people of all technical skill levels. CrossLoop extends the boundaries of traditional screen sharing by enabling non-technical users to get connected from anywhere on the Internet in seconds WITHOUT changing any firewall or router settings. It only takes a few minutes to setup and no sign up is required. Security is built into all aspects of CrossLoop.

Session data is encrypted at the end-points before being sent using a 128-bit encryption algorithm and a randomly generated 12-digit access code. CrossLoop is a secure tool to remotely assist any PC on the planet. CrossLoop includes file transfer support, and switch control feature. Adds creation of a free CrossLoop accounts to create a dynamic public profile page, reserve your custom CrossLoop URL, view your session history, as well as widgets to promote yourself as a tech support specialist.

CrossLoop Features:
- Send CTRL+ATL+DEL
- Send CTRL+UP
- Send CTRL+DOWN
- Send ATL+UP
- Send ATL+DOWN
- Multiple File Transfer (Can’t transfer folder)
- Switch Control (Share becomes Access, Access becomes Share)

Let me walk you through on how easy it is to remotely access a computer using CrossLoop. Let’s say Joe wants to connect to Sharon’s computer to help her troubleshoot some computer problems.

1. Both Joe and Sharon must download CrossLoop and install.

2. Joe and Sharon will have to run CrossLoop shortcut icon from Desktop or Start Menu after installation.
Run Crossloop

3. Since Sharon is the one getting help, she will click the Share tab and click Connect. A 12 digit random access code will appear and she’ll give it to Joe.
Share computer screen

4. Joe will now go to Access tab, enter the 12 digit random access code that he received from the Sharon and click Connect.
Crossloop Access Computer

5. A warning window will appear on Sharon’s screen to confirm on Joe connecting to her computer. Sharon clicks YES.
Crossloop Warning

6. Joe is now connected to Sharon’s computer and able to view and control her computer.

As you can see, there is nothing about port forwarding. It is SO easy to provide help to another person. If the person receiving help has a third party firewall such as ZoneAlarm installed, he/she might have to allow CrossLoop to go through. I’ve tried enabling Windows Firewall, it immediately connects even before I select “Unblock”. Even If I select Keep blocking, I am still able to remote control!

CrossLoop uses TightVNC Viewer version 1.2.9. At the official TightVNC website, the latest stable version is version 1.3.9. If you look at TightVNC’s changelog, there are a lot of new features and bug fixes from version 1.2.9 to v1.3.9. Not sure why they are not using the latest version of TightVNC.

I think CrossLoop would be better if it is portable and don’t require installation. The 2 minutes countdown timer should be increased. There are some people who can’t give you the 12 digit random codes in 2 minutes. Other than that, it’s a great tool to provide computer help or even demonstration to people around the world.

[ Download CrossLoop ]


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  • Change the Listening Port for Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection
  • Changing Remote Desktop Listening Port Updates
  • Remote Access Apple Mac OS X via Windows
  • Free and Easy Remote Access with VNC Reverse Connections