01
Start the tool on both machines
Quick Assist is part of Windows. Typing the name in Start opens it without a download, which is what makes it useful for helping someone who cannot install software.
quickassistOpen **Quick Assist** on both machines, share the six-digit code, and confirm the consent prompt on the receiving side. Nothing gets installed and the session ends when either window closes.
Requirements
- Windows 10 or 11
- A Microsoft account for the helper
- Five minutes
Instructions
02
Helper: choose the assist role
Assist another person asks for a Microsoft account. The sign-in identifies who is connecting, so the receiving side can see a name before accepting.
Assist another persontipA work or school account can be blocked by policy. A personal account works for helping family.
03
Receiver: enter the code
The helper reads out six digits, the receiver types them under Get assistance. The code is single use and expires after ten minutes, so an old screenshot is worthless.
Get assistance > enter the code
04
Accept the consent prompt
Windows asks the receiving user to allow the connection. The prompt is on their screen and cannot be approved from the other end, which is the entire security model.
⚠ warningA UAC dialog appears on the secure desktop and stays hidden from the helper. The receiver has to click it themselves.
05
Request control only when needed
Screen sharing starts first. Control is a separate request the receiver accepts, and the toolbar shows when it is active so nobody is surprised.
Request control
06
End the session cleanly
Closing the window ends the connection on both sides and drops control immediately. There is no background agent left behind to uninstall later.
Common issues
The code is rejected
Expired or mistyped. Generate a new one; the old value cannot be revived.
The sign-in loops
A work account without the right licence. Try a personal Microsoft account.
The control request does nothing
The receiver has to accept it in their own window. Nothing happens silently.
The screen goes black during an install
That is the secure desktop for UAC. The receiver approves it locally, then the picture returns.
Frequently asked
Does it work across different networks?
Yes. Both sides only need outbound HTTPS; no port forwarding and no router change.
Can I use it on Windows 10?
Yes, from the Store app, with the same code flow.
How to undo this
Nothing to revert: no service and no installation. Closing the window ends the session, and revoking control takes effect immediately.
Changelog · 1 entry
- 2026-10-31First version
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