Remote assistance via Windows Messenger

[cheer8923]

I was trying to help a friend via remote assistance.

On his machine, he has "Allow Remote Assistance invitation to be sent from this computer" checked. Then he send a request to me in Messenger (Action -> Request Remote Assistance).

I received the request:

"X is inviting you to connect to their computer using Remote Assistance. Do you want to Accept (Alt+C) or Decline (Alt+D) the invitation?"

I clicked on Accept and messenger shows:

"You have accepted the invitation to start Remote Assistance."

But nothing happens afterward. Am I missing some component or setting?

Thanks!

 

[linney]

How many times did your friend send the request? I have noticed in the past that sometimes the first request seems to hang but the second request seems to be successful.

What firewalls are between you and your friend? Make sure Remote Assistance has permission to get through such security.

Your friend can also try sending you the Remote Assistance request file (.rdp file) via E-mail, see if you can open such a file and start Remote Assistance via that?

 

[BadBigBen]

If you can't get it sorted via Messenger, then I suggest you use a third party software along the line of: CrossLoop

CrossLoop is free and will work with firewall and other security, it is easy to use...

Download and read more about it:

http://www.crossloop.com/

Ben

"If it works don't fix it! If it doesn't use a sledgehammer..."

 

[cheer8923]

The request was sent 3 times. There is firewall b/w us. But I was expecting at least the remote assistance coming up saying the connection is refused. What port do I need to open? Thanks!

 

[tlcscousin]

Port 3389 is the remote assistance port. If he cant get it sent using messenger have him email one.

 

[linney]

See if these explain what ports are used, it seems to be random one, rather than any particular port.

Solutions to problems with Windows XP's Remote Assistance feature

http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/5100-10878_11-1056068.html

If your computer is behind the Windows Firewall, you may need to reconfigure the Firewall to allow Remote Assistance via the Exceptions tab in the Windows Firewall.

MSN Messenger and Remote Desktop

http://windows.ittoolbox.com/groups...ro-l/msn-messenger-and-remote-desktop-1912500

Description of the Windows Messenger Reverse Connection Process Used by Remote Assistance

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306298

 

[cheer8923]

The saving file method works. So there should be no problem with firewall. It's just not as convenient

 

[linney]

What versions of Messenger are you both using?

Can you, yourself, use Messenger to Remote Assist with any another person besides your friend? Same question is relevant to your friend. Knowing that information might help to isolate the problem.