Install TeamViewer on client's computers?

[JW The Computer Guy]

I install TeamViewer on my client's computers, then rename the desktop icon to "Get Help". I also tell them to call me or email me the ID# and Password. It's just easier than having to go to their house, them trying to download it and install it themselves.

 

[dhrandy]

Did you pay for the commercial version? The free version is not for commercial use. I guess all your clients could be your friends.

 

[Bryce W]

Its not a bad idea to do this as it may result in more calls. However, because its so easy to get help, you might get more little calls that are too small to charge for. Rather than a client waiting for it to be an hours worth of work.

Also keep in mind that the free version TeamViewer is for personal use only. If you are using it commercially you must purchase the business license.
Looking at the cost of the TeamViewer business license, something like Instant Housecall has way more technician related features at a similar price.

Remember in your intro thread we said it costs more to operate in this business than you think and you need to raise your prices? Its little things like this that drives the operating costs up.

Lastly, while the general public often doesnt care about licenses, you really need to be totally legit in the computer business. Competitors in your area would be more than happy tell on you and send you under.

 

[JW The Computer Guy]

The reason I do this is so I don't get any stupid questios like, "Where's the download button" or "How do you Spell Teamviewer". <-- This one gets asked alot, so I just install it on their computer went they come to get it fixed. Computer newbies often find it difficult to find the Quick Support module. The site needs to be laid out better.

They should put a link to the Quick Support module on the home page.

 

[MrUnknown]

It is, click "Join a Session"

 

[techoftheday]

Alternative to Teamviewer

I use a remote access product called Techinline (http://www.techinline.com) It sort of reflects the connection process of Teamviewer, but the nice thing about it is that it's 100% browser-based and the client doesn't have to install anything (they just get a number from as site). Based on pricing (if you compare the Teamviewer Pro) and ease of use, that's my personal favorite. Anyone else know about this service?

 

[Kenhelms]

I use a remote access product called Techinline (http://www.techinline.com) Anyone else know about this service?

Im testing now, the pricing is very cool.

Thanks for providing it!

Edit- this thing times out a lot.

Very slow to load.
User chat does not seem to work between two firefox computers.
Horrible Lag

 

[usacvlr]

This is like saying in the old days you coulnd't use netscape because it was only 'free' if you weren't a business. It was ludicrous then and it's still ludicrous. What they are referring to is there own liability if you are using the software in an enterprise environment. Anyone can download the software but you give up more rights if you use the free version than if you pay for it. There is nothing in the license agreement for the free download that says you cannot use it if you are a business.

This is the key phrase in all free versions. It's just about liability guys, don't worry about it. The software nazis aren't creeping in the shadows....
"All free and trial versions are supplied "as is" without warranty of any kind.
Installation and use at your own risk only."

Did you pay for the commercial version? The free version is not for commercial use. I guess all your clients could be your friends.

 

[MrUnknown]

It may not be "illegal" (which you're right, the license agreement for TeamViewer makes no mention of the free version solely for non-commercial use) the crap the program displays when the session is over is unprofessional.

 

[Fixedathome.com]

If Teamviewer suspect you are using the program commercially they will block your network adapters mac address. I know because I used the trial version and ticked commercial use. I decided not to buy a commercial license but still wanted to use it on my own PCs and had to get them to unblock me.