Is VPN the right way for me to go?

[DWalrus]

I want to connect (preferably secure) with two relatives so that I can provide a means of PC support for them remotely. Would a VPN be the way to go or should I use something like PCAnywhere? Even if I use VPN I will still need to set up remote management in order to take over the desktop. The objective here is to do this with minimal expense.

Thanks,

DWalrus

 

[ChicagoTechNet]

VPN is the safe, cheap and easy to do if you have windows OS or server. Access remote computer via VPN and then use terminal service or VNC to manage the remote computer.

For more tips or information, check to

http://www.ChicagoTech.net

Robert Lin, MS-MVP, MCSE & CNE
Windows, Network, Internet, VPN, Routing and How to at

http://www.ms-mvps.com

 

[lgarner]

pcAnywhere and VPN aren't mutually exclusive. It definitely wouldn't hurt to secure the connection.

For remote access, I've been evaluating Radmin (

http://www.famatech.com)

and I'm impressed. Far faster and more robust than VNC, and only $35/license (you'd need two, each license covers two computers). I don't think pcAnywhere has host-only licenses in small quantities, so you'd need two of them anyway.

 

[DWalrus]

I have Tight VNC but don't think a static IP address is going to be a possibility with the ISP. The first connection I would want to make would be between my PC (XP Pro) to a Win 2K box. It is broadband on my end and dial up on the other.
What would be the simplest, most economical way to do this?

Thanks,

DWalrus

 

[JimPletcher]

Dynamic IP should be no problem. You could use DynDNS to provide IP address lookup.

Are you close enough (physically) to use PCanywhere dialup? - it's slow, but your speed is going to be limited by the dial-up on the other end anyhow.

One option would be for you to get a vpn-capable router and let your relatives establish a vpn with you by using vpn client software like SSH Sentinel. Once thew connection is made, you can use the remote control software of your choice.