• Machine names now use FQDN
• ENTER key press initiates action on object (Thanks to John Butrym for this feature)
• Object list now displays Active Directory Description field
• Object list now supports searching by typing in first 3 - 5 characters of object
• Error logging has been added
• One-Click Google search for running processes on remote machines
• Increased size of main window

• Dynamically search OU's / Containers for machines
• Search single level or nested OU's for machines
• Supports a TARGETED nested OU search
• Connect to target machine with Offer Remote Assistance
• Connect to target machine with Remote Desktop
• Remote Desktop console session (administrative) on Microsoft Windows Server 2003 machines
• Remote Desktop console session (administrative) on Microsoft Windows Server 2008 machines
• Queries Active Directory for OS version and service pack level
• Stores up to 4 unique configurtions (ie. domains)

• Utility mode, for targeted machines
• Reboot remote machine
• Shutdown remote machine
• Explore C$ of targeted machine
• Display Remote Processes
• Kill Remote Processes
• Display services running on remote machine
• Stop/Start services on remote machine
• View current logged on user and other basic info
• Remotely retrieve serial number of machines
• Remotely retrieve Operating System version of machines
• Dynamic web links to vendor web sites based on machine manufacturer
• Alternate credentials may be used
• Containers (ie. computers) can be specified for computer searches along with OU's
• Can store up to four unique configurations
• Queries Active Directory for OS version and service pack level
• Queries Active Directory for last logon authentication
• Smaller screen footprint, "emulates" Vista Gadget of the same name
• More - see actual program for the MANY features

If you have found this utility useful please consider making a DONATION. Donations help keep this site running and provide resources to enhance and develop new scripts.

Do you want to make this application even more powerful? Why not configure all of the Windows XP workstaions in your domain to auto accept an Offer Remote Assistance request. Yes, you no longer have to explain to the end users over the telephone that they have to answer "OK" on a pop-up window to allow you to connect. Now you can automatically connect and take control of the end user's computer without the "pop-up and wait" annoyance. Follow these instructions to rollout this feature to the computers in your environment.

Screen Shots

INSTRUCTIONS

Upgrade from previous version

1. Run your existing RCF application, version .3x - .5x
2. Click 'Edit Configuration'
3. Click 'Uninstall' Button
4. Delete old RCF.hta file
5. Download the file RCF.1.50.zip to your computer
6. Unzip the file to your local hard drive
7. Double click the new RCF.exe file to run it
8. Enter your desired configuration and click SAVE

1. Download the file RCF.1.50.zip to your computer
2. Unzip the file to your local hard drive
3. Double click the new RCF.exe file to run it
4. Enter your desired configuration and click SAVE

REQUIREMENTS

Program itself

• Microsoft Windows XP Machine
• Administrative rights on the local machine
• Works on Microsoft Windows Vista too but, the Sidebar Gadget
  version is preffered for Windows Vista

• Administrative rights on the Target Computers
• If Windows firewall is enabled you need the following exceptions (can be set in a GPO)
• Allow remote administration exception
• Allow file and printer sharing exception

• All of these settings can be set in a GPO
• Member of "Offer Remote Assistance Helpers" group on target machines
• Member of "Remote Desktop Users" group on target machines
• Need to "Allow users to remotely connect to this computer" on target machines
• Need to "Allow helpers to remotely control the computer" on target machines
• If Windows firewall is enabled you need the following exceptions
• Allow Remote Desktop exception
• Program Exceptions:
• %SystemRoot%\PCHEALTH\HELPCTR\Binaries\helpsvc.exe
• %SystemRoot%\System32\Sessmgr.exe

FAQ - RCF for Microsoft Windows XP

Q. How do I backup my configuration settings?

A. The RCF utility stores its settings in two locations, the registry and the application data folder under your user profile. The registy stores the domain DN information and all other settings from the settings page EXCEPT the OU distinquished names, those are stored in text files in your profile. To backup your settings simply export the following registry key: "HKCU\Software\Remote-Connection-Facilitator" and save the file. Then copy all files from the following directory: "C:\Documents and Settings\Your-LogOn-Name\Local Settings\Application Data\Remote-Connection-Facilitator\" to a safe place.