Awesome and Free Remote Control Software

I recently stumbled across a piece of software that makes remote user support extremely easy. Best of all, it is completely free. The software is called Crossloop which is based on VNC technology. VNC is open source software that has been around for some time but can be difficult to configure, especially on the fly when you are attempting to help somebody with their PC issues from a remote location. In fact, crossloop is VERY much like Ecogent's Echo VNC but without all the configuration steps required to set up your own reflector server or to pay for a VNC reflector service. According to crossloop:

CrossLoop is a FREE secure screen sharing utility designed for people of all technical skill levels. CrossLoop extends the boundaries of VNC's 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 signup is required.

For hardcore techies, crossloop is pretty basic but I can say that it is (or will) be extremely helpful, even for geeks when helping out someone with little computer experience. The only drawback is that it does require a download and installation at both ends which means you will have to convice your Mom & Dad that the software is safe and free of virus and spyware, not to mention walking them through the download and install process. However, compared to some of the other alternatives out there which usually have a fairly high cost, it is definitely worth taking a look at.