In a Nutshell
pros
- Connect from an internet browser
- Compatible with Windows XP and Vista
- Trusted for more than 30 years
cons
- True color resolutions not supported
- Only connect to Windows hosts
- Outdated program
Laplink at a Glance
What Services and Features Does Laplink Offer
Laplink Everywhere is Laplink’s remote access software for connecting to Windows computers using RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol). RDP is the default connection protocol for accessing Windows computers and contains built-in security and encryption so that neither the display contents nor files exchanged during sessions can be intercepted in plain text.
Laplink Everywhere has 2 main components: a host client and a toolbar. Both tools are compatible with Windows 7, Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008, and Vista. Users simply need to install the client and have RDP enabled on the host computer in order to set up the system for connections.
Notification Area Interface
On the host computer, Laplink starts up a notification area interface which can be opened to inspect a list of users that have access rights to the computer. Users then need to install the Laplink Toolbar which is compatible with Internet Explorer.
Once the program is installed, users can:
Remotely Control The Computer
Laplink allows users to initiate remote connection sessions with any Windows Host after creating and authenticating an account. This means that users can view the contents of the remote computer’s screens and manipulate the mouse and keyboard as if they were in front of it.
Exchange Files
Users can browse files and folders on the host PC and download or upload them through the connection client. Additionally, files can be transmitted via email or quickly synchronized. For instance, users can choose to synchronize a folder on the host and guest computer. Once this option is enabled all file additions, renames, and deletions will be propagated onto the remote target.
Mobile Access Client
Laplink maintains a mobile friendly website for clients that wish to establish remote connections from their smartphone (LL2go.com). After completing the sign in process on their mobile device, users can connect to the remote Windows computers just as if they were doing so from a fixed computer.
Application Tethering
Laplink is capable of detecting what software is running on the host computer. Once it recognizes common programs such as Internet Explorer or a notes client, it can populate a series of icons which serve as shortcuts for (remote) connecting users. For instance, a mail icon will link to an email application on the host computer.
Bookmark Parsing
Additionally, Laplink can scan through the bookmarks saved within browser programs on the host computer. This information is available to connecting users through the Internet Bookmarks menu icon which fills itself with bookmarks saved in Internet Explorer and Firefox.
Prices, Plans and Value for Money
Laplink Everywhere is available as both an individual download and as a 3-pack, which contains 3 licenses of the software for a discounted price. Both licenses are renewed yearly and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Ease of Use and Setup
Setting up Laplink is very easy. The toolbar can be installed on any computer that meets the basic system requirements. Similarly the host program can be installed on any Windows computer that has sufficient RAM and a recently enough updated version of Windows. Connections can be initiated as soon as users have logged in and configured the host computer for connection.
Laplink Security
Connections to Window remotes are done over the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). RDP is the standard protocol for remotely connecting to Windows hosts. RDP connections use Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) in order to encrypt and secure data being sent between the host and connecting device, whether a desktop or laptop. This means that the data should not be vulnerable to packet sniffing or interception en route.
Laplink Performance
Generally, RDP offers good remote access performance. However, speeds can deteriorate depending on the nature of the connection at either end of the RDP tunnel (on the connecting side and at the host computer). Therefore, it is advisable to make sure that both computers have a strong internet connection while the remote session is in transfer.
Laplink Customer Service
Laplink customer service can be reached through the online support center where the company has compiled documentation relating to common user issues, such as being unable to install the program without a CD and how to completely remove the software from the hard drive and Windows Registry. In the event that users need personalized support, the company says that it offers 24/7 support through a live chat system that puts customers in touch with an expert. Alternatively the company operates a toll free phone line in the US.
Laplink FAQs
Can you exchange files through Laplink?
Yes users can both exchange individual files and folders and synchronize directories.
What is required to connect to Laplink?
Users can connect through a browser that is running the Laplink Toolbar
What can users do once connected through Laplink?
Users can access the Windows computer remotely and manipulate the mouse and keyboard as if they were in front of their computer
Bottom Line
Laplink Everywhere has been in the remote access business for a long time, but these days, the program is looking a bit long in the tooth. The major disadvantage of this tool is that it’s only for connecting to Windows hosts. The UI is also a bit outdated. For users that want a remote connection solution for Windows, while Laplink will do the job, there are better options out there.
