The latest release of long-developed Timbuktu Pro remote control software appeared last week. Version 8.5 adds several options designed to improve security and provides support for viewing multiple monitors remotely.

<http://www.netopia.com/software/products/tb2/ mac/>

Several new modes are available in this release, including:

• Lock-down or "Help Desk": A computer can't initiate remote sessions, but is available for remote viewing by, for instance, in-house technical support.

• SSH-only: Timbuktu Pro can be prevented from connecting using the old, less secure protocol, after which it will allow only SSH (Secure Shell) connections.

• Remote screen blanking: The remote computer's screen goes blank when being controlled from afar by Timbuktu Pro. This "secures" the activities of that user from casual observation.

• Two monitor sharing: Timbuktu Pro now provides a view of two monitors on a remote system.

• Hide from scanning: You can suppress the appearance of a particular computer running Timbuktu Pro from local network lists.

Timbuktu Pro 8.5 finally includes an option to check for an upgrade automatically on launch - a key tool in these days of frequent upgrades for utility software. And Netopia claims in the release notes that screen sharing for Control sessions is much improved, especially over local networks.

Be sure to read the multi-step process for successfully upgrading a system with Timbuktu Pro installed - it works for me every time, but it requires adherence to a detailed sequence of operations. Timbuktu Pro 8.5 is a free upgrade for registered users of version 8.0. (The link below takes you to the download authorization page.)

<http://www.netopia.com/support/technotes/ software/tb2mac/update_8.html>