Data Deposit Box, a provider of online backup services, has released a free beta version of its new Remote Desktop service, allowing users to access a PC or server from any other PC, eliminating the cost of implementing and maintaining a virtual private network (VPN).

The company said that the Remote Desktop uses an industry standard protocol for Microsoft Windows and a simple setup to authenticate through firewalls without involving IT support. It enables users to access computers, applications and files or finish working from another Windows PC.

In addition, it also provides a way for service providers and IT support staff to access remote computers for end-user support without the delays associated with travel and onsite visits, the company said.

Jamie Brenzel, founder and CEO of Data Deposit Box, said:As a leading provider of online backup, recovery and file sharing services, the addition of this new remote access solution gives small business users all of the benefits of cloud-based services without the enterprise-level IT costs and infrastructure requirements.