The only fully hosted, software-as-a-service company, LogMeIn leverages browser power and blazing response time to cover any delays caused by routing connections between controller and the controlled machine through the LogMeIn host. In addition, LogMeIn provides as much client system information as NetSupport, if not more.

Using a hosted model lets administrators bypass remote routers and easily connect to mobile users in odd locations.

The client resident module stays in touch with LogMeIn, and clients can directly ask for support at any time. PC maintenance across the Internet doesn't need the user's help or authorization.

Installation went smoothly on client stations, though each machine must connect to the service, have software downloaded and register for support. PCs can be preregistered by an administrator and sent a signup link via e-mail. You can't remotely control Linux or Macintosh systems, but those systems can use a Java-enabled browser to control remote PCs running Windows.

The wealth of PC information provided by LogMeIn leads one to consider it a management tool that does remote control rather than a remote-control tool that provides some information. Lists of registry keys, disk partitions, loaded dynamic link libraries and many other parameters appear on the LogMeIn dashboard. You can do everything from adjust clock time to start and stop services through the LogMeIn window.

Fast screen updates give the feel of being at the remote computer, with almost no latency to disturb the illusion. LogMeIn lets you draw shaky lines with your mouse that appear on both systems (cool, but useless unless you have a pen and tablet to make decent drawings).