How to help someone with their PC using Quick Assist

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 3 October 2026

Quick Assist is built into Windows 11 and lets you see, and if allowed control, the screen of a relative or friend over the internet. It works on the Home edition too, so it is the simplest way to help parents with their PC without driving over.

These steps are for Windows 11. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the Settings window, not screenshots, so colours and spacing on your PC look a little different.

Step by step

1. Open Quick Assist on both PCs

   Press Ctrl + Windows key + Q, or type Quick Assist into the search box on the taskbar. If it is missing, install it for free from the Microsoft Store.

   Done

2. Helper: get a code

   Select Help someone. Quick Assist shows a 6-digit code. Tell it to the other person on the phone. The code is only valid for a short time.

   Done

3. Other person: enter the code

   Type the code into the Code from assistant box and select Submit. Then select Allow to share the screen.

   Done

4. Helper: look or take control

   At first you only see the screen, which is enough to talk someone through a problem. For more, select Request control. The other person must approve it.

   Done

5. Use the tools

   The bar at the top has a laser pointer, a pen for drawing on the screen and a chat box. They are useful for showing where to click, so the other person learns the steps.

   Done

6. Take control back or end

   The person receiving help can select Cancel control at any time. When you are done, either side selects Leave.

   Done

Good to know

Only accept help from someone you know and have asked yourself. Microsoft warns: allow a helper to connect only if you started the contact. Callers who say they are from Microsoft, the bank or the internet provider and ask you to open Quick Assist are fraudsters. Hang up.

If control was given to a stranger, select Leave, disconnect the internet, and change your passwords from another device. Call your bank if online banking was open.

The other person does not need an account. Both PCs need an internet connection.

For reaching your own PC from elsewhere, see how to use Remote Desktop on Windows 11.

In short: Ctrl + Windows key + Q on both PCs. Helper: Help someone, share the 6-digit code. Other person: enter the code, Submit, Allow. Request control if needed, Leave to end.