Work from anywhere with a VPN

A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is a way to tunnel through the Internet and perform computer tasks on another PC using a secure connection.  Normally, a client will be installed that opens certain ports on the PC, allowing the user to remotely move the mouse, check Email and perform other actions either from within a corporate environment or hundreds of miles away.

Installing a VPN

If you're running XP, you may already have the capability to use a VPN to remotely link up with another PC.  The program is called Remote Desktop and can be accessed by going to START>ALL PROGRAMS>ACCESSORIES>COMMUNICATION and then select Remote Desktop Connection.  If it isn't already installed, you'll need to install from the CD.  Insert the disc into the target machine's CD-ROM drive, select Perform Additional Tasks, and then click Install Remote Desktop Connection.

There is a detailed Remote Desktop Tutorial here.

Another free program we like to use is Real VNC.  You can download it from here

Real VNC can install both the VPN server and client on a PC.  If you only intend on using the Server, download it and install it on the machine you will want to access remotely.  You can then download the client and put that on the machine you want to use to access the server--a laptop for instance.

Depending on your network configuration, you may need to have you IT person at work configure the router or firewall to allow access to the server PC over those ports.  Normally, the program will work right away, with little configuration on your part.  You will need to know your IP address, so visit a site like http://www.whatsmyip.org and write it down. 

You can get help installing your VPN in our message boards.  But installing a Virtual Private Network is fun and easy and great experience for networking enthusiasts.  So whether you're using Microsoft's Remote Desktop or Real VNC, you can begin enjoying the freedom these programs provide in a matter of minutes.

1. 169 IP Address
2. Update Your D-Link Router Firmware
3. Configure Static IP Address
4. Renew Your IP Address
5. Router Setup and Configuration
6. Wireless Zero Configuration
7. Windows Remote Desktop Setup
8. Home Network Setup
9. LAN Party Setup
10. WiFi Security
11. Internet Connection Sharing
12. Firewall Options
13. Wireless Network Setup
14. Configure WPA Wireless Connection
15. Is VoIP Internet Phone For Me?
16. Wireless Network Standards
17. RJ45 Network Interface Cards