Hi Paul,
I am somewhat confused. When you had your issue, were you using LogMeIn? It sounded as if you didn't want to use it, but then you went on to explain your problem once you logged in.
I do not believe remoting into a client will then allow you to access the database directly. If you are going to use VPN, then you may want to look into getting higher end VPN hardware such as Cisco. You could use a Cisco Easy-VPN-Server-enabled Cisco router or security appliance at the main site, and then deploy smaller Cisco router/firewalls at the remote sites and just set up Easy VPN through the PDM. You can also hire someone with Cisco IT experience. I think Cisco, without a doubt, provides the best solutions for VPN.
Alternatively, you could try
http://www.lockergnome.com/it/2009/...ffices-and-employees-in-just-47-minutes/although I have never used it. If you did go the Cisco route, and you sprung for a support contract, the support would be able to walk you through everything. I am certainly not a networking guru, but this may give you some ideas.
