WebEx Debuts Free Basic PC Remote Access

Better known for its online meeting service, WebEx is moving into targeted services under the MyWebEx brand, the San Jose, Calif.-based company said. "MyWebEx creates a new class of services for individuals and professionals that takes advantage of our global MediaTone network," said Subrah Iyar, the chief executive of WebEx in a statement.

MyWebExPC is the first such service, and like competitors such as Citrix's GoToMyPC, lets users access and control a remote PC via a Web browser interface. However, it does not include file transfer functions, one of the primary uses of remote access software.

The beefier MyWebExPC Pro, which adds additional security controls and advanced features, including file transfer, costs $9.95 per month. Pro lets users lock individual applications from being accessed remotely, provides for remote printing, and allows for PC-to-PC file transfers.

MyWebExPC can be accessed from the WebEx site. The Pro version runs $9.95 per month, or $7.45 if customers commit to an annual subscription. As part of the launch, WebEx is giving away the Pro service through April 4, 2005.