rickshangle.com

I’ve really enjoyed using Remote Desktop in the past. Apple released the first update in like a year this week.

ARD is systems management software for OS X. In a nutshell, it allows you to control a remote Mac over the network (think VNC for Mac, if you know what that is) as well do other admin tasks on groups of machines (system status reporting, push software updates, reboot, troubleshoot, etc etc etc etc.)

I do wish Apple had a ~5 managed systems edition for like $150, but I’ll probably wind up biting the bullet for the 10 user @ $300. This is so I can control my 17″ PowerBook, which is sitting right next to me on my desk, from my G5. Because I am a lazy, lazy man. I also realize that being able to remotely control my mom’s mac in Sterling from Arlington has a certain appeal during phone troubleshooting of her various issues, but since many of those issues deal with her cable modem network allegedly being “down”, maybe not. Hey, at least I got her to OS X and off XP… that was a big step.

But, funny (and true) story:

One time I went over to my friend Mike’s house around 11PM on a Friday night and banged on his basement door. I knew he was in the back “media” room of said basement, drinking and watching TV at 110 dB. Mike is a not a one to answer his phone, and I required access (and the whiskey he was hoarding), so extreme measures were required.

NOTE: This is a good example as to why it’s a bad idea to let your friends know your system / network passwords:

I just happened to have my PowerBook with me…

Step 1) Log onto Mike’s Airport network

Step 2) Install ARD agent on Mike’s PowerBook without his knowing

Step 3) Take control of Mike’s PowerBook

Step 4) Open TextEdit on Mikes’ PowerBook

Step 5) Type: “Mike, it’s Rick. Don’t freak out. Open your basement door.”

Since his house is made of brick, Airport reception is crap outside, and each of these steps, which should have taken about ten seconds apiece, took several tries.

The net effect was Mike first thinking he was experiencing an Amityville experience, followed by the relief of realizing that it’s only his as*hole friend. He appeared at the door sheepishly, relieved that it was just me and not Robert Johnson/the devil/some zombie from The Monkey’s Paw.

Then we drank the whiskey.

This is why ARD is essential software.

rds