Last updated: 04:09PM 08/21/07
| Website | Fog Creek Copilot |
Summary
Priced right. $5 dollars is a very small price to pay to provide a simple on screen tech support to family. Rather then walking them through the complex procedures to fix their issue, or attempt to guide them down how to install VNC and setup the port forwards in their NAT. I would definitely recommend for those issues that can’t be easily explained over the phone and the person you are supporting isn’t a short drive away.
The Process
https://www.copilot.com/learnmore/
- Either person can initiate a session.
- Either person can pay for the service (on the one day pass).
- Each person downloads a small 300kb-700kb executable that is pre-loaded with that sessions codes, so it’s literally download and run.
Downsides
- The application runs at user level privileges.
- The application isn’t signed, so Internet Explorer will present a warning.
- Isn’t suitable for trouble shooting BIOS or Virus issues, but nothing really replaces the tools available when in person. Of course Intel is looking to make a future where this can be accomplished remotely.
Potential
It makes me wonder, if my bluetooth headset, an unlimited phone call plan, and copilot, could make a small profit on the side doing tech support….