Chrome Remote Desktop: How to help friends and family with computer issues

Whether you got someone anew Chromebookfor their birthday or a holiday or replaced an outdated computer, it’s never the end of the journey. Even after setting it up for the person and walking them through how to use it, there will be questions. It’s difficult to figure out an issue they have or guide them through how to fix it while talking on the phone.

There is a solution. Chrome Remote Desktop is a free, web-based application that lets you give and receive virtual tech support, which makes helping your friend or relative a breeze.

4

How to access Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop works on all ChromeOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows devices. You need an internet connection, a Google account, and a web browser to use it.

How to receive support using Chrome Remote Desktop

Now that you’re logged in, follow a few simple steps to receive support.

How to provide support

If you’re on the other end of this equation and need to provide support to someone, the process is simple.

What can Chrome Remote Desktop do?

The folks giving support can remotely control a device, and Google offers options to make the experience easier and more efficient. To access these options, click thearrowon the right side of the screen to open the menu.

Four sections of options are visible to the person giving support. Here’s what each option does.

The ChromeOS desktop showing a plumeria wallpaper

Session options

Input Controls

This option allows you to view a specified display or to see all displays.

This section has options for sending feedback, activating an overlay for bandwidth and other stats, links to additional help, and the terms and conditions.

The Chrome Remote Desktop website home page

Remote in with ease

Helping friends and family with device issues is usually a headache. Chrome Remote Desktop makes the process easy for you and the person receiving support and helps get the job done quickly. If you just got someone a new Chromebook, help them learn how to use it with these greatChromebook tips and tricks.

The note-taking app I should have used all along

The Google Account sign-in prompt for Chrome Remote Desktop

Broader branding hints at wider paid-tier ambitions

Boost Mobile sees changes, too

The Remote Support tab on the Chrome Remote Desktop website

Google is still searching for answers

I played the opening mission of The Outer Worlds 2 and really enjoyed what I experienced

Pixelsnap on a Pixel 9