I've seen the little Remote Assistance icon in the start menu many times over the years but just thought it was one of those things that I probably didn't need or wouldn't use.  I live on Terminal Services and Remote Desktop but just haven't used Remote Assistance.

Here's how Microsoft describes it:

Remote Assistance provides a way for you to get the help you need when you run into problems with your computer. If you're an experienced user, you can even be the one to use Remote Assistance to directly help your friends and family members.

The last part there sounds interesting - "directly help your friends and family".  How many of us have been called on a time or two to help someone out?  I'm not as handy with other things as I am with computers so I'm always willing to help out when I can.  Being able to do it myself instead of directing someone else over the phone is a huge plus.

Last night I had the perfect opportunity to use it to update the wireless drivers on my wife's laptop.  The old drivers were causing issues with her new CloudMark SPAM software (awesome by the way) so it needed do be done ASAP.  Remote Assistance was really easy to setup and can be done via Windows Messenger, via E-Mail, or by Sending a File.  We chose to use Windows Messenger; my wife just requested my help from Messenger's menu and the rest was straight forward.  I was able to take full control of her desktop and do what needed to be done.  I'll definatly use this bad boy again.

FYI, Lifehacker has reviewed a few other programs lately that do basically the same thing.  Sure they have more features but they all require that both machines have the software installed.  When you're trying to help someone you really want things to be as easy as possible.

Giddy Up!