Remote access provides a time-saving and secure way to work when you can't be in the office. Here are pros and cons of three common remote access options.
VPN Remote Access
This solution creates a VPN (Virtual Private Network) over the Internet from the remote user to the office network. The connection is a secure, encrypted connection between the endpoints.
• Requirements: Both locations must have high speed, stable Internet connections. The host must have a VPN server (a feature of the Sonicwall security appliance) and a static IP. The remote user must have VPN client software installed on his or her computer.
• Pro: This method provides a secure, encrypted way to copy files to and from the network server.
• Cons: Slow speed, lack of document version control because opening files directly across the VPN is not recommended.
One-to-One Remote Control
This solution builds on the secure foundation built with the VPN Remote Access. The VPN adds the remote user to the corporate network. One-to-One Remote Control runs through the VPN tunnel. The remote computer “takes over” a computer located in the corporate network.
• Requirements: This technology is one-to-one remote access. That is, if you need 3 simultaneous remote users, you must have three computers in the corporate network as hosts. After the VPN is in place, an additional software layer is need for remote control. You can purchase several common packages such as NetOp or PCAnywhere. Or, if your needs are straight-forward, the Windows built-in utility Remote Desktop works well. If you do not have a VPN and do not wish to create a VPN, a service such as GoToMyPC tracks both ends (host and remote) of the connection and facilitates security and navigates firewalls.
• Pros: Because only screen refreshes, keyboard, and mouse clicks are transmitted over the VPN connection, this is a fast, efficient method to access the corporate network. This solution is a great option for workers with both a desktop and a laptop.
• Cons: Printing to a remote printer can be an issue. If the remote user wishes to print on a device that is with the user at a remote location, that printer must be a LAN attached printer with a box-to-box VPN. The other option is to create a PDF file, transfer the file locally and print locally.
Windows Remote Desktop Services (formerly Terminal Server)
Use this solution when the one-to-one ratio for remote control is no longer feasible. Terminal Server delivers Windows desktops from a centralized location and users can log in from any location either in the office or remotely.
• Requirements: Terminal Server and licensing. Microsoft requires a Windows Remote Desktop Services Client Access License for each user. In addition, your application software must be properly licensed (e.g. for Microsoft Office, you must use Open licensing). External users connect to the network using a VPN. Depending on your application load and hardware requirements, a Terminal Server can support 15 to 20 users comfortably and up to 50 users if the demand is light.
• Pros: Users log in to an individualized, profile-based desktop. Like one-to-one remote control, only screen refreshes, keyboard, and mouse clicks are transmitted over the VPN, so this is a fast and efficient way to access the corporate network.
• Cons: Costs for hardware and licensing.
CRU Solutions helps small and medium-sized enterprises select and manage the right computer technology. Contact Janet Gehring at janet.gehring@crusolutions.com or 440-325-4061 to learn more.