Windows Live Mesh for Windows 15.4.3555.308

Overview

Windows Live Mesh is a powerful file syncing application that gives you the ability to access your PCs files and programs from anywhere there's an Internet connection. Unlike many other file syncing applications, the software actually gives you the ability to access all of the functionality on a computer's desktop remotely, rather than just being able to quickly transfer files.

Installation

Installing Windows Live Mesh is extremely simple and can be done in just a couple of minutes, although you will need to have a Windows Live/Hotmail account in order to authenticate the software. Of course, if you do not yet have an account you can easily create one for free. It should be noted that the setup will automatically include the installation of several Windows Live tools, so if you only want file syncing capabilities you need to perform a custom installation and select the desired components.

Interface

The user interface is strikingly familiar, as it is extremely similar to the Windows Live Messenger interface. Most of the features have an accompanying step-by-step wizard that walks you through the process of adjusting settings and preferences by asking a few simple questions. Perhaps the most appealing aspect of the interface is that it integrates seamlessly with the Windows operating system via context/start menu options.

Pros

• Includes 5 GB of free cloud web storage that you can use to back up your files online

• Compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X, so you can access files within a Windows operating system remotely, even if you are using a computer that has Mac OS X installed

• Lets you sync specific folders between multiple computers simultaneously. Convenient wizard style setup lets you easily choose which devices you'd like to share folders with

• All file transfers are protected via the latest encryption technology, including SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and TLS (Transport Layer Security)

• Not only gives you remote access to files, it also lets you use all of the programs that you have installed on your computer remotely, so it's just as if you're sitting in front of the computer that you're accessing.

• Drag-and-drop functionality makes it easy to transfer files from one device to another, so you're not simply limited to accessing the files while you're connected to the Internet

Cons

• May be unappealing to individuals that are not accustomed to or do not like the way the Windows Live Messenger interface is set up

Alternatives

Some of the most notable alternatives to Windows Live Mesh include popular file syncing applications like Dropbox, SugarSync (Windows, Mac), Remote Desktop Connection, SpiderOak (Windows, Mac), and LogMeIn. Of these competitors LogMeIn is probably the most commonly used simply because it is an online browser-side service. If you want a simple file syncing service without a lot of additional features, SugarSync is recommended, while Dropbox is perfect for individuals that need superb cross-platform compatibility.

Conclusion

This program is ideal for travelers, businessmen, and anyone else that frequently needs to access their computer's files and programs remotely. With a familiar interface, plenty of additional features, free web storage, and excellent integration with Windows, this utility is a favorite amongst many Windows Live fans.