The main function of I’m Intouch is remote control. By logging into the service using a standard web browser, you can access a remote PC just as though you were sitting in front of it.

However, accessing remote applications can be frustratingly slow, especially if you’re using dial-up.

I’m InTouch aims to keep you connected to your data while you’re away, and a simple remote control session isn’t always the most efficient way to achieve this.

Like most paid-for remote access applications, a file manager similar to Windows Explorer is provided, but I’m Intouch also offers some convenient features of its own.

The My Outlook function gives you local access to remote information stored in Microsoft Outlook, Outlook Express and Vista’s Windows Mail. This means your email interface will run at the full speed of your local PC, avoiding the frustrating lag inherent with low-bandwidth connections. You can also use My Outlook to manage your calendar and contacts remotely; for instance, from a PDA or web-enabled mobile phone.

A key new feature in this version is the remote chat facility. Vital for remote support, this was a serious omission in the previous release. To supplement this, My Webcams connects you to cameras configured on the host PC, providing remote surveillance.

An optional Stealth installation mode allows I’m Intouch to be installed in a way such that any user at the host PC would be unaware that remote access is occurring or that they are being monitored.

There are many free remote control applications available, but I’m Intouch offers a well-selected set of extra features that make remote working easier and more convenient, including dual monitor support, remote printing to a local printer and direct connection over a Lan.