How to Set Up and Use Quick Assist on Windows 10

Quick Assist is Microsoft’s remote-support app for Windows. On Windows 10, you can use it to let a trusted person view your screen and, only after you approve it, control your PC to troubleshoot a problem. The current workflow is simpler than the older built-in version: the helper generates a short-lived security code, you approve screen sharing, and full control is requested separately.

Microsoft still documents Quick Assist for Windows 10, although the current app is distributed through the Microsoft Store. Also note that standard Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. If you still use Windows 10, consider a supported upgrade path or the appropriate Extended Security Updates option where available.

What you need before using Quick Assist

• Internet access on both PCs. Microsoft says Quick Assist uses HTTPS over port 443 and must be able to reach its remote-assistance services.
• The current Quick Assist app. If it is missing, open Microsoft Store, search for Quick Assist, and select Install or Get.
• A Microsoft account for the helper. The person giving help signs in with a Microsoft account or Microsoft Entra ID. The person receiving help does not have to sign in.
• A trusted helper. The other person can see your screen and can control the PC if you explicitly allow control.

For Microsoft’s current technical requirements and network details, see the official Quick Assist documentation.

How to open Quick Assist on Windows 10

The quickest method is to open Start, type Quick Assist, and select the app from the results. You can also press Ctrl + Windows + Q. On some Windows 10 installations, Quick Assist can still appear under Windows Accessories in Start.

How to start a Quick Assist session

Both people should open Quick Assist before beginning. The person giving assistance is the helper; the person sharing the PC is the sharer.

1. The helper selects Help someone. If prompted, the helper signs in to a Microsoft account or Microsoft Entra ID.
2. Quick Assist generates a 6-digit security code. The code is time-limited, so share it promptly through a trusted channel such as a phone call or known messaging conversation.
3. The sharer enters the code. Under Get help, enter the code in the Code from assistant or Security code from assistant box, then select Submit.
4. The sharer approves screen sharing. Review the helper information shown on screen and select Allow only if you recognize and trust the person.
5. The helper can then request control. Screen sharing starts first. If the helper needs to use the mouse and keyboard, they select Request control, and the sharer must approve that request separately.

What you can do during the session

Once connected, the helper can view the shared screen. Current Quick Assist versions include tools such as a laser pointer, annotation, and chat. If control has been granted, the helper can interact with the PC using the sharer’s keyboard layout and mouse settings.

The sharer remains in control of permission. You can use Cancel control to stop the helper from controlling the PC, or Leave to end the Quick Assist session. Some User Account Control prompts may still require the sharer to respond directly on the PC.

Use Quick Assist safely

Only use Quick Assist with someone you trust. Do not enter a code because an unsolicited caller, pop-up, or message claims your computer has a virus or urgent problem. Microsoft specifically warns that remote-support tools are used in tech-support scams. If you did not initiate the support interaction, do not approve the connection.

Remember that screen sharing can expose open documents, notifications, browser tabs, and other private information. Close anything sensitive before starting, and do not approve full control unless it is necessary.

If Quick Assist will not install or connect

• Microsoft Store is blocked: work or school policies can prevent installation. Contact your administrator rather than trying to bypass the restriction.
• WebView2 errors: Quick Assist requires Microsoft Edge WebView2. On Windows 10, the app normally detects and installs it when needed. If it fails, follow Microsoft’s Quick Assist troubleshooting guidance.
• Connection fails: firewalls, proxies, or network policies can block the Microsoft endpoints Quick Assist needs over HTTPS port 443.
• The code no longer works: generate a new security code and try again. Codes are intentionally temporary.

A note about Windows 10 support

Microsoft ended standard support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Quick Assist is still documented as applying to Windows 10, but the operating system itself no longer receives normal free security updates or technical support. Microsoft recommends moving to Windows 11 when possible; eligible Windows 10 systems may also have Extended Security Updates options. See Microsoft’s Windows 10 end-of-support information for current guidance.