Secure Remote Computer Access / Virtual Private Networking (VPN)

With Virtual Private Networking (VPN), you can securely access all of your network resources including shared network drives, your company intranet, client/server software and your own computer desktop from anywhere.

Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection Software

Access the desktop of your Windows-based computers from other computers in or away from your office. Remote Desktop is available for Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X. Download Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection Software from Microsoft.

VNC Viewer: Ultra VNC, Real VNC, and Tight VNC

Ultra VNC, Real VNC, and Tight VNC are popular alternatives to Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection Software that also work on Linux. Unlike Remote Desktop, VNC Viewers do not log into a new session on the remote computer--the session is visible on the remote computer as well as in the viewer. This can be handy for simply connecting to a computer down the hall to perform a quick function (without logging out and logging back in).

Microsoft VPN Technologies

Microsoft VPN technologies are packaged with Windows Server 2003 and Windows Server 2008, require little configuration, and rely on a VPN client built into Windows XP and Windows Vista making it an excellent choice for small businesses with an existing Microsoft infrastructure.

Hardware VPN Appliance

If performance becomes an issue with a software VPN (such as Microsoft VPN technologies), then a hardware VPN appliance may be needed. We recommend Juniper Networks SSL VPN Appliances.

Remote Desktop + VPN = Secure Remote Access

Combining Microsoft's Remote Desktop Connection software or one of the VNC Viewer options with a VPN connection allows business users to work from anywhere just as though they were in the office. Simply start the VPN connection and then connect to your office computer with Remote Desktop Connection software and the same desktop you use at the office is available anywhere.