You can easily access a Windows XP machine, or really any Windows machine, or Linux machine, by using VNC. Here’s how to get started.

You simply install and run a VNC service on your desktop/server and then install and configure a VNC app on your iPhone.

For desktop/server software, try going to RealVNC for some free VNC software and on Apple’s appstore, look for VNC apps like Mocha VNC and Mocha VNC Lite.

I still find it amazing that I can remote control my Windows XP (and Linux KDE/Gnome) machines on my little iPhone from anywhere. If you have a firewall/router or are using the Windows built-in software firewall, don’t forget to open the appropriate ports. For more security, you can run VNC inside a VPN connection or even inside an SSH tunnel.

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