LogMeIn Central brings remote access to SMEs

Remote connectivity specialist LogMeIn has launched a platform aimed at helping remote workers at small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) to easily access their networks, data and applications.

The new software-as-a-service Central system allows users outside the office to create a virtual private network (VPN) from their laptop or other mobile device to access the company network as though they were physically attached to it. The systems also works in reverse, allowing IT support to be handled remotely.

"With shrinking IT budgets and less free time than ever, small businesses and their IT providers need technology that lets them grow without increasing costs, and tools to be more productive without increasing IT overhead," said Andrew Burton, vice president of consumer and SMB at LogMeIn.

"Small businesses simply cannot afford downtime. They need to be connected and productive whether they are in the office, on the road or at home."

The web-based Central platform allows users to securely deploy and manage an unlimited number of computers, according to Burton, and provides an on-demand VPN service to give remote access to the network, as well as a range of monitoring and reporting tools to help IT managers keep track of access and management.

Small businesses often use third-party resellers to maintain and troubleshoot their IT systems, and LogMeIn said that Central could also be used by these companies to avoid costly call-outs to fix relatively simple issues.

LogMeIn Central will be charged at U$376 per year and is available for a free, 14-day trial.