PCAnywhere Turns 11

Symantec's remote-access app offers updated look, easier file transfers.

Monday, Symantec plans to announce PCAnywhere 11, an upgraded release of its remote-access software that features performance improvements and a revised user interface for IT help desk administrators.

The PCAnywhere technology, which was initially released in 1986 as a connectivity tool for remote users, has emerged in recent years as a help desk support tool. The software provides help desk workers with remote system control functions, including the ability to take over a PC in the field and transfer files or patches, said David Scott, a senior product manager at Symantec in Cupertino, California.

The new version can transfer needed files in the background while IT administrators continue with other work, Scott said. He added that the revamped user interface looks more like Windows XP and offers increased configuration flexibility, making it possible to reduce the size and number of tool bars and other features.

View: New Features