is XP's remote access secure over networks?

xfx

Junior Member
May 29, 2002
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I have a client that wants to access their Peachtree financial information from away. They have no server and simply have a dynamic DSL connection that comes into the office and is splitup through a normal hub. Do you guys think Win XP's remote access feature is secure?

And, is it possible to run remote-access over an internet connection that isnt static? How is that possible?

I hope this isnt off-topic..

[xfx]
 

Tallgeese

Diamond Member
Feb 26, 2001
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Originally posted by: xfx
Do you guys think Win XP's remote access feature is secure?
Verdict is still out for most folks, but here's someone who thinks RD is plenty secure
And, is it possible to run remote-access over an internet connection that isnt static? How is that possible?
Use one of several free dynamic DNS services available. Instead of using a numeric address, you'll use a hostname to connect.
 

rw120555

Golden Member
Jun 13, 2001
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I am interested in this too. I'd like to be able to access my work machine from home, and maybe vice versa. Can somebody elaborate on these "several free dynamic DNS services" and where you can find them?

To carry this a bit further, I have a pretty powerful desktop machine with lots of memory and HD space. I'd like to get a nice lightweight laptop that was very portable (but which would not be so powerful). Is it reasonable to think I could come up with a setup where the laptop tells the high-powered machine what to do? And that I could just keep most of my files on the killer machine and access them as needed from my laptop? Right now I tend to have copies of files on both machines, and occasionally I screw up, either forgetting to bring a file or (worse yet) overwriting a newer file with an older one.

Thanks. RW
 

mobly99

Senior member
Apr 27, 2001
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RDP data is encrypted bi-directionally with a RC4 algorithm \ 128 bit key by default in XP. However, if you are using an older terminal services client that doesn't support 128 bit encryption it will negotiate lower key lengths. You can change this to require 128 bit and not connect at lower encryption levels.
check link

-Dave
 

Tallgeese

Diamond Member
Feb 26, 2001
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Originally posted by: mobly99
RDP data is encrypted bi-directionally with a RC4 algorithm \ 128 bit key by default in XP.
I keep remembering a tidbit about security of Term connections. That yes, RDP was fully encrypted, but that a good part of the negotiated preamble was sent in the clear.

Of course, I cannot find that tidbit anywhere... :eek: