How to auto run a downloaded file?

[MikeH]

I've been having trouble with new customers in that they know nothing about how to use their computer. The issue; I have remote service as part of my business. Client is on the phone and I direct them to my site to download client side file, install and start the session. First they don't know the difference between the address bar and the Google search bar to even go to my site, then after 15 minutes of that they finally get to my site and start the file download. Then they don't know how to get to it. Very hard directing someone to do something when they don't know what windows explorer is or how to execute a file or find it for that matter. My question is how can I have the customer download the client session file and have it auto execute? Any ideas what be helpful.

 

[Markverhyden]

If your hyperlink goes to an actual file you should be able to have them right click>save as>to desktop. Easy to find from there. Maybe there is a way to craft a hyperlink to run using something like CGI.

 

[Porthos]

I know some users are lets say slow with how a computer works. But to set up a computer to auto run a downloaded is an easy way for a system to get hosed.

 

[Porthos]

If your hyperlink goes to an actual file you should be able to have them right click>save as>to desktop. Easy to find from there.

Good idea, Some will still not get that right either.

 

[Your PCMD]

Create a subdomain like: remote.yoursite.com

Tell them to hit Win Key + R, type in the subdomain. Done!

Ok, maybe not totally done. But you can create a .php script and save as index.php that will automatically start the download. Like so:

<?php
header('Content-Type: application/download');
header('Content-Disposition: attachment; filename="yourfile.exe"');
header("Content-Length: ". filesize("yourfile.exe"));

$fp = fopen("yourfile.exe","r");
fpassthru($fp);
fclose($fp);
?>​

If they are on IE, simple tell them to click RUN instead of downloading. For Firefox, click the down arrow in the top right of the bar, click on the file to run. For Chrome, once its downloaded, click the program on the bottom left of the browser to run it. Its really that simple.

 

[jmitservices]

Google search bar to even go to my site, then after 15 minutes of that they finally get to my site and start the file download. Then they don't know how to get to it.

I feel your pain! What remote support software are you using?

 

[TurricanII]

+1 get them to save your remote control program to the desktop. If you are supplying the machine, place your remote control program on the desktop or Start Menu menu before you deliver it.

I never appreciated how much of a pain in the backside search bars would become. People still seem amazed when they type in the search bar and your website doesn't magically appear.

 

[MikeH]

I feel your pain! What remote support software are you using?

I was using screen connect but I switched to Instant House Call. It is so much easier. Screen connect was a little confusing. I'm paying a little more but can have multiple connections. I really didn't like the fact of only one connection with Screen Connect. I had tried Instant House Call back in December and it was a real pain. I tried it again and really like it. You can also set it up so you can accept credit card payments from customer, very cool.