1.3 Overview

This protocol is used to transfer the Remote Assistance Connection String (section 2.2.1) from the novice to the expert. After the connection string, as defined in [MS-RAI] section 2.2.1, is transferred, a Remote Assistance session can be established as specified in [MS-RA].

The protocol describes two methods based on PNRP to exchange the Remote Assistance Connection String:

Using an Unsecured Peer Name: This method uses Unsecured Peer Names (as specified in [MS-PNRP]) to transfer the Remote Assistance Connection String. The connection string is encrypted and posted as an extended payload associated with the Unsecured Peer Name. When this method is used, the novice relays a password to the expert. Using the password provided by the novice, the expert locates the Unsecured Peer Name, downloads the payload, and decrypts the Remote Assistance Connection String. Using the connection string, the expert can make a Remote Assistance connection to the novice.

Using a Secure Peer Name: This method uses Secure Peer Names (as specified in [MS-PNRP]) to transfer the Remote Assistance Connection String between the novice and the expert. The novice and the expert can have Remote Assistance contacts for each other. This method does not require a password. Using the Secure Peer Name, the expert can download the extended payload that contains the Remote Assistance Connection String. Using the connection string, the expert can make a Remote Assistance connection to the novice.