Need to access home network remotely

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IMFletch

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#52258 3-Dec-2009 10:20

Based on advice received here, purchased GoodSync for the 4 computers (one desktop, three laptops) we own. Also figured out how to sync with external hard drive hooked up to the desktop using the home network features on Vista.

My question is, if I want to access files on this external drive away from home, how do I do that? I see that there are services that allow this (LogMeIn, FileZilla). Wondering if people here have suggestions? Preferably something idiot proof. Anything more than that I may crash the interwebs.

xpd

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#278968 3-Dec-2009 10:31

You only want to access those files ? Then a FTP server would do it, or else a VPN - so something like Hamachi would work (https://secure.logmein.com/products/hamachi2/).

Hamchi would be the easier option, no firewall to play with etc.

Gavin / xpd / FastRaccoon / Geek of Coastguard New Zealand

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IMFletch

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#278985 3-Dec-2009 11:17

I think when I used the word "access" it might've been a bad choice. I need to be able to transfer the file if necessary from the home network to the laptop wherever it is. Not just access the file.

xpd

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#278994 3-Dec-2009 12:07

Yup, Hamchi creates VPN between the 2 systems, so you can access WIndows shares etc.

Gavin / xpd / FastRaccoon / Geek of Coastguard New Zealand

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IMFletch

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#278998 3-Dec-2009 12:23

Sorry if this is dumb, but what's VPN?

sep11guy

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#278999 3-Dec-2009 12:34

also, thru this hamachi, are we able to share / drag-drop files on the fly..

say if we have a laptop with hamachi and there is a desktop with music on it. can i remotely open programs on the desktop, play music - ? etc..

xpd

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#279004 3-Dec-2009 12:50

VPN - Virtual private Network - install and run Hamachi on either end, and the computers can see one another as if they are on a local network - so any folders/printers etc you have shared, can be seen and used by the other.

Have a look athe getting started guide - https://secure.logmein.com/documentation/hamachi/Hamachi_Getting_Started_Guide.pdf

Personally Ive only used it a few times to play games with friends and it worked well. I could also see my friends Windows shares ete.

Gavin / xpd / FastRaccoon / Geek of Coastguard New Zealand

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OldRepublicJedi

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#279015 3-Dec-2009 13:24

I would also recommend VPN, or an FTP server.. generally very straight forward to setup! And if you are worried about security (which you should be) and want a bit of extra piece of mind, sftp would be even better.. dont want to get it too complicated though I take it?