LogMeIn

If you've bought a PC with Microsoft Windows Vista preinstalled, chances are it isn't the all-singing, all-dancing Ultimate version. However, it's possible to get Ultimate's power from Vista Basic using third-party downloads.

Talking of cheap, the basic free version of LogMeIn brings the Ultimate and Business ability to access your PC from anywhere. LogMeIn Free uses an SSL-secure gateway, is easy to set up, and works with most firewalls and routers. What's more, it works from any web-enabled PC or Pocket PC. Unfortunately, if you want file transfer, remote printing and file sharing as well as 256-bit encryption, you'll need the Pro version.

Author: Davey Winder