2 PCs networked via Internet - VPN or pcAnywhere?

[Plester]

my dilema is this: i need access to the office (host/server) computer from home (remote/client). the office/host machine has a DSL connection and the home/remote has cable. there will be occassions where someone will be on the office machine at the same time i need to be on it from the home/remote.

here are my assumptions/questions;

the host/office machine will need a static IP for any method to work - am i correct in assuming this? setting up a VPN sounds like a hassle. i don't know if a user can be on the host while the remote is connected under pcAnywhere.

lmk what you know.

 

[bozo1]

Not really. The remote takes over the mouse and keyboard function. While you could still type and move the mouse, that would totally interfere with what the remote was doing.

 

[lowtech1]

Both remote & local user will control the key board & mouse at the same time....Both will be fighting for control at the desktop. You might want to ask you Network Admin to setup Terminal Services on one of the server for remote access. Or install PCanyWhere on the server if you are the Admin.

 

[PlatinumGold]

if you can, if you have win2k server installed on office machine go w/ terminal server. much better.

 

[Plester]

basically the need is to have 2 machines networked via the internet. win2k server isn't really an option, this is a 1 pc office that simply needs to be accessed from a remote client on occassion. i am starting to think the most cost effective way to do this is pcAnywhere and that means nobody can be on the host while the remote is.

am i correct in assuming that the host will need a static IP?

 

[Plester]

how about a little Cable/DSL VPN router on the host end or do i need one on both ends?