When a family member or colleague asks for technical support with their computer, trying to diagnose the problem over a phone call is an exercise in frustration. Instead of blindly guessing what is on their screen, you can use a built-in Windows 11 tool called Quick Assist to view their desktop and take direct control of their mouse and keyboard.
Unlike third-party remote desktop software (like TeamViewer or AnyDesk) which require complex installations and account setups, Quick Assist is native to Windows. It allows two people to share a screen securely over the internet using a simple six-digit security code.
Requirements for Using Quick Assist
Before you begin, ensure both computers meet the necessary criteria:
- Both computers must be running Windows 10 or Windows 11.
- Both computers must be connected to the internet.
- The person providing the help (the “Helper”) must have a Microsoft Account (e.g., an Outlook, Hotmail, or Xbox Live account) and be signed in.
- The person receiving the help does not need a Microsoft account; they only need the security code.
How to Open Quick Assist
Both users must open the Quick Assist application on their respective computers.
The fastest way to launch it is using a dedicated keyboard shortcut:
- Press Windows Key + Ctrl + Q.
Alternatively, click the Start button, type Quick Assist into the search bar, and click the application icon (two overlapping screens with a green arrow).
Step 1: The Helper Generates a Code
If you are the person providing the technical support, you must initiate the connection.
- Open Quick Assist.
- Click the button labelled Help someone.
- You will be prompted to sign in with your Microsoft account if you are not already logged in.
- Quick Assist will generate a temporary six-digit security code. This code expires in 10 minutes.
- Communicate this code to the person you are helping over the phone or via a text message.
Step 2: The Receiver Enters the Code
The person who needs help must now enter the code to authorise the connection.
- Open Quick Assist.
- Under the “Get help” section, type the six-digit code into the text box labelled Security code from assistant.
- Click the Submit button.
Step 3: Choosing the Connection Type
The Helper will now see two options on their screen:
- Take full control: This allows you to see the remote screen, move the mouse cursor, type on the keyboard, and open files exactly as if you were sitting in front of the computer.
- View screen: This allows you to watch what the other person is doing, but you cannot control the mouse. This is useful for guiding someone through a process without doing it for them.
Select your preferred option and click Continue.
The Receiver will then get a final prompt asking them to Allow or Decline the connection. They must click Allow to begin the session.
Using the Quick Assist Tools
Once connected, the Helper will see the remote desktop in a window. A toolbar at the top of the screen provides several useful tools for remote support:
- Select Monitor: If the person you are helping has multiple monitors, you can switch between them using the monitor icon.
- Annotate (Laser Pointer): Click the pen icon to draw directly on the remote screen. This is perfect for circling a button and saying, “Click right here.” The drawings fade away after a few seconds.
- Instruction Channel (Chat): Click the speech bubble icon to open a text chat window, allowing you to copy and paste complex terminal commands or web links directly to the remote PC.
- Task Manager: Click the gear icon to instantly launch the Task Manager on the remote PC, allowing you to force-quit frozen applications.
How to End the Session
Quick Assist respects user privacy, meaning the person receiving help retains ultimate control.
Either party can terminate the connection at any time by clicking the Leave button (a square with a right-facing arrow) in the top-right corner of the Quick Assist toolbar, or simply by closing the Quick Assist window.