LogMeIn has added Mac support to its namesake remote access service, enabling users with Mac systems to remotely operate their computer via a web browser. It also enables firms with a mixed fleet to deploy one remote access service across both PC and Mac computers.

Available immediately, the Mac version of LogMeIn's host software is currently offered only as LogMeIn Free edition. The Windows version is available in both Free and Pro editions, the latter a paid-for service supporting extra features such as file transfer between the host and remote computers.

"Free is the foundation of our remote access business, but we will continue to add Mac support in the future," said Kevin Farrell, vice president of LogMeIn's digital living group. He said the firm is already working on Mac versions of the Pro edition and the Rescue edition for helpdesks for release in the near future.

LogMeIn is the first vendor to offer a remote access tool for both PC and Mac with a high level of simplicity, the company said. While there are other remote control tools for the Mac, these are either not free or need configuration changes such as firewall settings to function, according to Farrell.

The simplicity of LogMeIn derives from its use of a web proxy to connect a user with their host PC. Users login via the company's web site, which means that almost any computer or device with a browser can be used to view and control the host system's desktop.

The addition of cross-platform support benefits companies that have a mixed environment of Mac and Windows, as it enables a single remote access tool to be used for both platforms.

"Our existing customers have been clamouring for Mac support. They have been saying 'as soon as you have this, we'll take lots of licences'," said Farrell.

Initially, LogMeIn only supports the latest version of Mac OS X -10.4.9 - but this will also be expanded in the near future. The host software runs on both Intel-based and older Power-based Mac systems.

LogMeIn Pro pricing starts from $69.95 (£35) per seat per year for Windows PCs and the Mac version is expected to cost the same when available.