PsTools 2.5

Overview

The PsTools suite is a resource kit which includes many command-line tools that provide additional remote access/control functionality for system administrators and other people who are happy using small tools to perform specific tasks.

The PsTools suite includes 14 tools as a package. Most are also available as single tool downloads but as they take up little space on the hard drive it is simply easier to install them all in one go.

The tools are aimed around the idea of managing a system remotely. The tools are free of viruses, but occasionally do trigger warnings because some virus creators have regrettably used one or more of these tools within their virus packages in the past which causes a false flag to be raised by some virus scanners.

Once accessing another computer via authorized remote access, there is a tool for executing processes, suspending resources or ending processes, changing account passwords, deleting event logs, showing files remotely, and shutting down (with the option to reboot too).

Installation

These Windows NT and Windows 2000 Resource Kits are targeting these operating systems, however it is possible that they will also work with newer Windows operating systems too.

Interface

The interface is based around the command-line with the list of possible commands and correct syntax given in order to use each tool properly.

Anyone familiar with using the command-line instead of a GUI will feel right at home.

Pros

• Package of command-line tools relating to working with remote access
• Shut down or restart a computer remotely on a remote PC
• View remote PC system performance
• Start, suspend or end a remote PC process
• View remote PC control services
• Remove remote PC event logs
• Display remote PC uptime

Cons

• Can create a false warning from virus scanners as some of these command-line utilities have been previously used by virus creators. Package is actually virus-free.
• Command-line usage requires some learning and patience
• Best suited to more advanced users

Conclusion

PsTools suite is a useful collection of command-line utilities focused on different aspects of remote access. Check on Windows processes, system performance, delete event logs, and shut down (or restart a PC) all done remotely.