More Detail on Using SSL VPN:
1. We installed a Cisco RVL200 VPN router in our office. We configured it, using the setup screens, to allow access for a logged in user to see the Host computer with AC. (We also set the router to assign a static IP address to the Host Computer to avoid having to search for it if the Router reassigned addresses).
2. On the Remote Computer (e.g. at home, netbook on the road, etc.) the user logs in by typing our IP address, assigned by our ISP (cable company), and then supplying their uwername and password. (We actually got a url from dyndns.org pointing to the IP address to avoid having to remember the IP address for our network. That's also helpful if your IP address from your ISP is not static.)
3. The router establishes a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) connection, which exposes the office network to the Remote Computer, including the Host Computer (with encryption between the Host and Remote computers).
4. Then we mapped a network drive ("M:\") on the Remote Computer to the Amazing Charts directory (e..g. "//192.162.1.149/AmazingCharts"), in Windows Explorer.
5. With the VPN connection active, when AC is run on the Remote Computer, and asks for the location of the AC data files, we direct it to the mapped drive ("M:\").
6. We have a 8mb download\2mb upload cable internet connection in the office. ($99/month in our area.) The remote connection depends on where we are. Usually at home or when travelling it is a highspeed connection of some sort. (Home is a 5mb/500kb cable connection; hotels and relatives - who knows?) Not an expert, but apparently the type of VPN and specific model of VPN router used can significantly impact speed (i.e. for encryption/decryption), so other types of VPNs may be slower.
5. Why not just use remote access? (1) Small office, with the main files on the computer used by our frontdesk staff. If using remote desktop accesss while they are there, it keeps them from using the computer. Otherwise, would have to leave another computer running in the office for remote access. (2) VPN allows access to network resources, e.g. printers, drives, etc. without having to funnel it through the local computer (3) Cost -One time $150 cost, for up to 5 simultaneous users.
