Network Nerds I need your help

[Empty V]

So at the office I've got a small network of about 15 PC's and a Video Conferencing System. I had to get a block of static IP's assigned so others can dial into our VC because it's all done by IP addresses. Now that I've got a static IP on our router can I gain access to our server remotely? Basically jump on our network from another location. I really don't know much about VPN clients but from what I understand that is what is needed in order to make this happen. Can someone please clarify and maybe explain what I need to do to access our server from a remote location.

Thanks!

[VMPhil]

depends on what kind of system you are using for the VPN.

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/ ... 4809.shtml

[Empty V]

depends on what kind of system you are using for the VPN.

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/ ... 4809.shtml

That link looks like a guide to a certain product. Our network is really simple. Verizon router -> 15 computers + VC -> one computer is setup to share it's drive and acts as a "server." We've got a static IP on the router and our VC which leaves 3 unused if they're needed.

So how do I access our server from home?

Thanks!

[VMPhil]

then you will need the server end of the software. a VPN server and accompanying client software.

[Empty V]

then you will need the server end of the software. a VPN server and accompanying client software.

I need to understand what I need and why. Can you or anyone else please explain?

Thanks

[VMPhil]

yeah that's a little tougher. I'm usually on the client end of a VPN connection.

[Empty V]

yeah that's a little tougher. I'm usually on the client end of a VPN connection.

I was hoping for something simple like "set a static ip address for your server and load this software." There aren't any solutions like that?

[Razi]

AOL Video chat!
a/s/l?

[Amays U G37S]

Alright.

You can't access the router, remotely. You can but you have to connect into a host computer first.

Are you trying to connect in to run the software? You can use, LOG ME IN, which is a program that connects to a host from your PC, but it is at a price. I do not recommend using the software that is labeled REMOTE DESKTOP CONNECTION because you have a secure network, and if you add this port to your router, I can then access the router, if I know the log in WEP or WPA key for your router.

If you are trying to connect to a remote host, the easiest way is through Log Me In. But, With a VPN, you have to have a VPN/Firewall to connect to the network, to log in through that securely, then connect it to a host, or the "server". Once this is established many people can be on it at one time, or other desgniated systems, but users cannot be on the pc at the same time.

(we don't do VPN installs, I sub it out to one of business parters. But I do setup networks. I have a degree in it and tons of exp. if it means anything)

Ask your questions away.

[Dattebayo]

So, you're a clown all month long and then you suddenly get serious? I'd take his advice with a grain of salt.

[Amays U G37S]

So, you're a clown all month long and then you suddenly get serious? I'd take his advice with a grain of salt.

Nope, i'm not serious

And yes i'm a clown

[miamiheat3332]

One thing that would help so i could direct you in the right direction is a bit more detail on

1. What type of Network OS is the server running?

2. What type of router is it?

3. So your saying your internal LAN is all on a private IP range, all connections outbound/inbound are going through on static, another outbound/inbound static ip which is used strictly for Video Conferencing, and then you have 3 more static ips for outbound/inbound available?

4. Also just to make sure your network is basically

1 Verizon router to internet

Verizon router either connected to a switch or wireless switch (unless this verizon router has a switch/wireless built in)

your 15 pc's + a server.

If you clear all that up for me i can probably give you a good idea on what needs to be done.

If you care, im Comptia A+ Certified, and currently in a Cisco CCNA College course, with CCNA 1 & 2 completed, i also have alot of networking/server experience.

[Empty V]

You're my boy blue! Everything you've said is correct. I've got a verizon (fios 35 over 35) wireless router going into a 24 port and a 16 port switch. You've got the static/dynamic IP stuff correct as well. 2 Machines are running Vista, 1 MacPro also running Vista and Windows 7, and the rest are all XP Pro. The comp who's drive is basically our server/storage is running XP Pro.

Thanks dude!

[Jesda]

So, you're a clown all month long and then you suddenly get serious? I'd take his advice with a grain of salt.

You're a too-serious a-hole 24/7 but post nothing of value. Its funny how that works.


I kid.














Sort of.

[miamiheat3332]

1 more thing i forgot to ask in terms of what you will be doing,

Do you just need to access information off the drive? Or would you like to remote desktop the xp "server" machine?

I would have 2 different solutions which are fairly simple to setup as long as you know what you are doing about basic software installs / basic networking.

Edit: Or perhaps maybe both?

[Empty V]

1 more thing i forgot to ask in terms of what you will be doing,

Do you just need to access information off the drive? Or would you like to remote desktop the xp "server" machine?

I would have 2 different solutions which are fairly simple to setup as long as you know what you are doing about basic software installs / basic networking.

Edit: Or perhaps maybe both?

I just want access to the drive, I don't need remote desktop capabilities.