Quick Assist is Microsoft's official remote assistance tool that allows users to give and receive remote support over the internet. Built directly into Windows 10 and Windows 11, Quick Assist enables IT professionals, help desk technicians, and everyday users to troubleshoot problems, provide technical support, and assist others remotely without installing third-party software.
- 🔗 Instant Connection - Share a secure 6-digit code to establish connection in seconds
- 🔒 Secure Authentication - Microsoft account-based authentication for both parties
- 🖥️ Full Remote Control - Complete screen sharing and remote control capabilities
- 📝 Annotation Tools - Draw and highlight on screen during assistance sessions
- 📋 Session Recording - Track and document support sessions (Windows 11)
- 🌐 Internet-Based - Works across networks without VPN or firewall configuration
- 💬 Built-in Chat - Communicate with text messages during sessions (Windows 11)
- 🔄 Multi-Monitor Support - View and control multiple displays
- Operating Systems: Windows 11, Windows 10 (version 1607 and later)
- Authentication: Microsoft Account or Azure AD/Entra ID required
- Connectivity: Internet connection required (443/TCP port)
- Protocol: Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) based
- Session Timeout: 10 minutes for code entry, configurable session duration
- Bandwidth: Minimum 1 Mbps (5+ Mbps recommended for optimal performance)
- Click the Start button or press Windows key
- Type "Quick Assist"
- Click on the app to launch
- Press Windows + R
- Type
quickassistorms-quick-assist: - Press Enter
- Open Start Menu
- Navigate to All Apps
- Scroll to Quick Assist (alphabetically sorted)
💡 Note: On Windows Server, Quick Assist may need to be installed via Optional Features
- Launch Quick Assist - Open the application using any method above
- Select "Assist another person" - Click the option to provide help
- Sign In - Authenticate with your Microsoft Account or work account
- Share the Code - A 6-digit security code appears - share it with the person needing help
- Wait for Connection - The recipient enters the code on their end
- Request Control - After connection, request permission to take control
- Start Assisting - Once granted, you can control their computer remotely
- Verify Identity - Always confirm you're helping the right person before sharing codes
- Explain Actions - Communicate what you're doing to avoid confusion
- Use Annotations - Circle or point to specific areas using drawing tools
- Minimize Intrusion - Only access what's necessary for the task
- End Properly - Always close the session when finished
- Launch Quick Assist - Open the application
- Select "Get assistance" - Click the option to receive help
- Enter the Code - Type the 6-digit code provided by your helper
- Grant Permission - Review and accept the connection request
- Allow Control - When prompted, grant permission for remote control
- Communicate - Describe your issue or follow helper instructions
- Only Share Codes with Trusted Helpers - Treat codes like passwords
- Verify the Helper - Confirm identity before accepting connections
- Watch the Session - Monitor what the helper is doing on your screen
- Revoke Access Anytime - You can stop sharing at any moment
- Close When Done - End the session once the issue is resolved
The Quick Assist connection workflow is designed for security and simplicity:
- Helper Authentication - Helper signs in with Microsoft credentials
- Code Generation - System generates a unique, time-limited 6-digit code
- Code Sharing - Helper shares code via phone, email, or messaging
- Recipient Entry - Recipient enters code in "Get assistance" section
- Permission Request - Helper requests screen sharing and/or control
- Access Grant - Recipient explicitly approves each permission level
- Active Session - Both parties can see connection status and duration
Quick Assist offers two levels of access:
- Helper can see the recipient's screen
- Helper cannot control mouse or keyboard
- Useful for diagnostics and guidance
- Lower security risk, ideal for initial assessment
- Helper can control mouse, keyboard, and all inputs
- Helper can modify files, settings, and applications
- Requires explicit permission from recipient
- Necessary for hands-on troubleshooting and fixes
During screen sharing sessions, helpers can use annotation features:
- Pointer Tool - Highlight cursor for better visibility
- Drawing Pen - Draw freehand on the screen
- Highlighter - Mark specific areas in yellow
- Eraser - Remove annotations
- Clear All - Remove all drawings at once
Note: Annotations are temporary and don't modify actual files
Both parties can monitor and control the session:
- Timer Display - Shows session duration in real-time
- Pause/Resume - Temporarily suspend control (helper side)
- End Session - Either party can disconnect at any time
- Reconnect - Generate new code for follow-up sessions
Quick Assist received significant updates in Windows 11:
- Redesigned Interface - Modern, streamlined UI matching Windows 11 design
- Laser Pointer - Virtual pointer visible to both parties
- Session Chat - Text-based messaging during support sessions
- Recording Options - Optional session recording for documentation
- Better Performance - Improved responsiveness and lower latency
- Task View Integration - Works seamlessly with virtual desktops
- Microsoft Account Required - Both helper and recipient must authenticate
- Azure AD Support - Enterprise users can use organizational accounts
- Two-Factor Authentication - Honors MFA settings on accounts
- No Anonymous Access - Cannot establish sessions without proper login
- Time-Limited Codes - Security codes expire after 10 minutes
- One-Time Use - Each code works for single connection only
- Encrypted Connection - All data transmitted over secure channels
- No Persistence - No permanent access or backdoor created
- Explicit Consent - Recipient must approve every control request
- Visible Indicator - On-screen notification shows active remote session
- No File Transfer - Quick Assist doesn't have built-in file sharing
- No Recording by Default - Sessions aren't automatically recorded
- No Access When Closed - Helper cannot connect when app is closed
- Audit Trail - Organizations can track sessions via Azure AD logs
IT administrators can manage Quick Assist via Group Policy:
Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Quick Assist
Available policies:
- Turn off Quick Assist - Disable the feature entirely
- Require PIN for outgoing sessions - Add extra security layer
- Configure organization branding - Customize helper experience
- Session timeout settings - Control maximum session duration
- 🎫 Ticket Resolution - Resolve user issues remotely without site visits
- 🖥️ Software Installation - Install and configure applications remotely
- ⚙️ Settings Configuration - Adjust system settings and preferences
- 🐛 Troubleshooting - Diagnose and fix technical problems
- 📊 Performance Optimization - Tune system performance remotely
- 👨👩👧👦 Family Tech Support - Help relatives with computer issues
- 📚 Training & Onboarding - Guide new employees through systems
- 🎓 Education Support - Assist students with technical difficulties
- 🏠 Work From Home - Support remote employees effectively
- 🌐 Distributed Teams - Collaborate across geographical boundaries
- 🏢 MSP Services - Managed Service Providers supporting clients
- 🏥 Healthcare IT - Support medical staff with EHR systems
- 🏦 Financial Services - Secure assistance for banking applications
- 🏭 Manufacturing - Support office staff in industrial environments
- 🛒 Retail - Assist store managers with POS and inventory systems
- ✅ No Installation - Built into Windows, always available
- ✅ Free - No licensing fees or subscriptions
- ✅ Microsoft Integration - Seamless Azure AD/Microsoft 365 integration
- ✅ Security - Backed by Microsoft's security infrastructure
- ✅ Simplicity - Easy for non-technical users
- ✅ Compliance - Meets enterprise security requirements
Consider third-party tools when you need:
- Cross-platform support (Mac, Linux, mobile)
- File transfer capabilities
- Unattended access (connect without user interaction)
- Session recording and playback
- Advanced collaboration features
- White-label customization
| Feature | Quick Assist | TeamViewer | AnyDesk | Remote Desktop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built into Windows | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Cost | Free | Paid/Free | Paid/Free | Free |
| Authentication Required | ✅ | Optional | Optional | ✅ |
| Unattended Access | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| File Transfer | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cross-Platform | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | Limited |
| Enterprise Controls | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Session Code | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
Solution:
- Verify Windows version (must be Windows 10 1607+ or Windows 11)
- Check if disabled by Group Policy
- Run:
Get-WindowsCapability -Online | Where-Object Name -like 'App.Support.QuickAssist*' - Install if missing:
Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name "App.Support.QuickAssist~~~~0.0.1.0"
Solutions:
- Verify both parties have internet connectivity
- Check if port 443 (HTTPS) is open on firewall
- Confirm code was entered within 10-minute window
- Ensure both users are signed into Microsoft accounts
- Try generating a new code
Solutions:
- Sign out and sign back into Microsoft Account
- Restart Quick Assist application
- Check Windows Update for pending updates
- Verify system date/time is correct
- Clear Windows Store cache:
wsreset.exe
Solutions:
- Close unnecessary applications on both computers
- Check network bandwidth (minimum 1 Mbps required)
- Reduce screen resolution temporarily
- Disable visual effects on recipient computer
- Switch to view-only mode if control isn't needed
Solutions:
- Recipient must explicitly grant control permission
- Check if antivirus/security software is blocking
- Verify User Account Control (UAC) settings
- Run Quick Assist as administrator if needed
- Ensure Windows Firewall allows Quick Assist
Get-Service -Name "RemoteAssistanceService" | Select-Object Status, StartTypeGet-EventLog -LogName Application -Source "Quick Assist" -Newest 50# Remove and reinstall Quick Assist capability
Remove-WindowsCapability -Online -Name "App.Support.QuickAssist~~~~0.0.1.0"
Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name "App.Support.QuickAssist~~~~0.0.1.0"# Basic launch
quickassist
# Or using ms-quick-assist protocol
start ms-quick-assist:# Check if Quick Assist is installed
Get-AppxPackage -Name "MicrosoftCorporationII.QuickAssist"
# Check Quick Assist capability
Get-WindowsCapability -Online | Where-Object Name -like '*QuickAssist*'
# Launch Quick Assist programmatically
Start-Process "ms-quick-assist:"
# Check version
Get-AppxPackage -Name "MicrosoftCorporationII.QuickAssist" | Select-Object VersionQuick Assist can be managed in enterprise environments:
# Ensure Quick Assist is installed on all devices
$Capability = "App.Support.QuickAssist~~~~0.0.1.0"
Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name $Capability- Document Sessions - Keep records of support provided
- Use Work Accounts - Sign in with Azure AD for audit trails
- Verify First - Always confirm user identity before connecting
- Minimize Privilege - Only request control when necessary
- Communicate Clearly - Explain actions before performing them
- Follow Up - Ensure issues are resolved after disconnection
- Train Users - Educate staff on how to initiate Quick Assist
- Policy Configuration - Set up Group Policies for security
- User Training - Teach employees when and how to use Quick Assist
- Security Awareness - Educate about social engineering risks
- Monitoring - Track Quick Assist usage via Azure AD logs
- Alternative Planning - Have backup remote support methods
- Documentation - Create internal guides and procedures
- Compliance - Ensure usage aligns with regulatory requirements
- Never Share Codes Publicly - Only share via secure channels
- Verify Helper Identity - Confirm who you're connecting to
- Use Strong Passwords - Protect Microsoft Accounts properly
- Enable MFA - Multi-factor authentication adds protection
- Monitor Sessions - Watch what's happening during control
- End Properly - Always close sessions when finished
- Report Suspicious Activity - Alert IT if anything seems wrong
- OS: Windows 10 version 1607 or later, Windows 11
- RAM: 2GB (4GB recommended)
- Network: 1 Mbps internet connection
- Account: Microsoft Account or Azure AD account
- Ports: Outbound TCP 443 (HTTPS)
- OS: Windows 10 21H2 or later, Windows 11 22H2 or later
- RAM: 8GB or more
- Network: 5+ Mbps broadband connection
- Display: 1920×1080 or higher resolution
- Updates: All Windows Updates installed
| Aspect | Quick Assist | Remote Desktop (RDP) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Temporary assistance | Persistent remote access |
| User Presence | Required at both ends | Can be unattended |
| Setup | Instant (6-digit code) | Requires configuration |
| Network | Works over internet | Often requires VPN |
| Authentication | Microsoft Account | Windows credentials |
| Duration | Session-based | Persistent connection |
| Use Case | Help desk, support | Administration, remote work |
| File Access | Limited | Full file system access |
When to Use Quick Assist:
- One-time troubleshooting sessions
- Helping non-technical users
- Cross-network support without VPN
- No prior setup or configuration time
When to Use Remote Desktop:
- Regular access to specific computers
- Unattended server administration
- Full file system access needed
- Working remotely on your own computer
- ✅ Zero Cost - Completely free with Windows license
- ✅ Always Available - Built-in, no downloads needed
- ✅ Fast Setup - Connect in under 60 seconds
- ✅ User Friendly - Simple for non-technical users
- ✅ Microsoft Trusted - Backed by Microsoft security
- ✅ Enterprise Ready - Azure AD integration, Group Policy support
- ✅ No Installation - Works immediately on Windows 10/11
- ✅ Regular Updates - Improved with Windows updates
- IT Help Desk teams supporting Windows users
- Family members helping relatives with tech issues
- Small businesses without dedicated remote tools
- Educational institutions supporting students and staff
- Organizations already using Microsoft 365/Azure AD
- Technicians providing quick troubleshooting assistance
Q: Do both users need a Microsoft Account? A: Yes, the helper must sign in with a Microsoft Account or Azure AD account. The recipient typically doesn't need to sign in (Windows 10) or may need to authenticate (Windows 11).
Q: Can I use Quick Assist on Mac or Linux? A: No, Quick Assist is Windows-only. For cross-platform support, consider alternatives like TeamViewer or AnyDesk.
Q: Is Quick Assist secure for business use? A: Yes, it uses encrypted connections, requires authentication, and supports Azure AD with audit logging. However, always follow your organization's security policies.
Q: Can I transfer files with Quick Assist? A: Quick Assist doesn't have built-in file transfer. You can use OneDrive, email, or other methods during the session.
Q: How long does a Quick Assist session last? A: Sessions don't have a fixed time limit, but codes expire after 10 minutes. Sessions end when either party disconnects or closes the app.
Q: Can I connect without the user present? A: No, Quick Assist requires both parties to be present. For unattended access, use Remote Desktop or third-party tools.
Q: Will Quick Assist work through corporate firewalls? A: Usually yes, as it uses port 443 (HTTPS). However, some restrictive firewalls may require configuration. Contact your IT department.
Q: Is there a mobile app for Quick Assist? A: No, Quick Assist only works on Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs.
Quick Assist - Microsoft's Built-in Remote Support Solution
Instant connections | Secure assistance | Zero installation
Keywords: Quick Assist Windows 11, Quick Assist Windows 10, Microsoft remote assistance, Quick Assist how to use, remote help Windows, Quick Assist download, Windows remote support tool, Quick Assist troubleshooting, free remote desktop Windows, IT support remote tool