Trans Replication using tcp/ip over a vpn

[smsinger3]

Hello all I get a Specified SQL server not found. error in the Distrubution agent during transactional replication. Actually, it's for the initial snapshot. I have no idea why I am getting this. Here are the details:

1) Both servers are SQL7 on NT4.
2) I am connected via a vpn to both servers so both servers are on different domains. I am using a tcp/ip connection that I setup in the Client Network Utility. This connections works great when I connect through enterprise manager.
3) Replication works great on servers that are in the same domain.
4) SQLServerAgent (sp?) is running on both servers
5) The snapshot is created fine, but the error occurs when the distrubution agent runs.

Could it be a security issue? Do I have to follow the "http" procedures that are in books online, or can I just replicate like I'm already doing it on the same domain?

Any ideas how to resolve this error? You're help is greatly appreciated.

If you need any other help, please let me know!

Steve S.
sms@hmbnet.com

 

[smsinger3]

If anyone is interested...here's what fixed the problem:

I had to use the "using ftp" procedures. The ftp service has to run at the distributor. To make it more confusing, the ftp ports weren't open on the vpn/firewall.