LapLink has been around for more than a decade in various forms (we reviewed an earlier version here). This latest version supports all 32-bit versions of Windows (i.e. 95/98/ME/2000/NT/XP) and is a powerful tool for accessing remote computers.

The actual connection methods supported are pretty comprehensive. You can use a modem, a direct serial, parallel or USB connection, a network connection and even wireless (via infra-red, for example). All these functions are accessed from the main LapLink screen, which is laid out simply and intuitively. A few clicks of the mouse will initiate the connection process and you can even install the software remotely on another PC; perhaps one that doesn't have a CD-ROM drive.

Once connected, you can take control of the remote PC, starting applications and manipulating files. The LapLink Gold 11 screen will show the whole desktop of the remote machine and you can run applications (with varying screen refresh speed depending on the speed of the connection) and see the results on your desktop. You can even blank the remote screen or even reboot the remote computer; handy for IT support staff dealing with users 'in the field'. You can, of course, transfer files to and from the connected machines and you can also print to either a local or remote printer from either machine.

Fortunately there's a good level of security and encryption available so that you don't compromise your data during the transfer process; this is particularly noticeable when connecting to a computer behind a firewall, a feature that's new to this version. Also new is the ability to connect to a machine that doesn't have LapLink installed, using the LapLink Web site as an intermediary. Text and voice chat are also supported so that you can talk to the remote user and explain what you're doing to their computer. A 'lite' version of PowerQuest's Drive Image is also included in the box.

If we have a complaint about the LapLink Gold 11 package, it's that the USB connection cable is an optional extra (costing £19.95 inc. VAT). Serial ports are disappearing from many laptops and it would be useful to see the box come with USB and parallel cables as standard, especially given the speed of USB 2.0. Still, that's more a complaint about marketing than any technical problem with the product. In all other respects, LapLink Gold 11 perfoms flawlessly.

Unlike some 'mature' products, which seem to get bogged down with extra features as time goes by, LapLink Gold 11 contains just the tools you need with no frills. It's easy to use, robust and it supports plenty of different connection options. Every IT support professional should have a copy.