Remote Access
|
Overview
Increasingly, companies find that workers and management need access
to their computer files and applications when they are away from the
office. ACUMEN has full support for remote access over the Internet
through Windows Terminal Services® or Citrix®; these applications
provide access for multiple users through a dedicated server. Single
user solutions are also listed below. For geberal questions about
these applications, please contact ACUMEN technical support. Prior
to launching remote access connections, establish security, privacy
and encryption solutions that are appropriate for your company.
Multi-User Solutions with a Dedicated Server
Windows Terminal Services
Terminal Services in Windows 2000 can be used to give remote users secure, fast access to business data and applications over the Internet. These features allow users to work efficiently with large files over virtually any network connection.
Up to 5 concurrent remote users are supported. Remote printing is fully supported. Connectivity with Macintosh and UNIX-based machines is supported with 3rd party software, such as Citrix.
A dedicated computer is required and additional Microsoft client access licenses may be necessary. Windows Terminal Services should not be installed on the ACUMEN server.
Cost is $2,000 - $2,500.
For more information, visit www.microsoft.com/windows2000/technologies/terminal/default.asp
Citrix
Citrix provides seamless, secure access to applications and data. With Citrix, applications are easily Web-enabled and rapidly delivered to a computer in many locations.
Citrix allows connectivity to non-Microsoft operating systems. Multiple remote users are supported. Remote printing is fully supported. Windows Terminal Services and Citrix should not be installed on the ACUMEN server.
Cost is over $6,000.
For more information, visit www.citrix.com/products/metaframexp.asp
Remote Access for Single Users
The following solutions require a computer dedicated to providing remote access. This computer must be on the same network as the ACUMEN server and should be considered occupied by the remote user.
Windows XP Professional
Remote access is a built-in feature of Windows XP Professional. Access
allows only one user. Remote printing is fully supported. Based on
the same technology as Windows Terminal Services, remote access software
can also be downloaded for other versions of Windows or Mac OSX.
For more information, visit
www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/techinfo/planning/mobility/remotedesktop.asp
www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/dowloads/rdclient1.asp
GoToMyPCT
GoToMyPC, from Expertcity, is an easy and secure remote-access solution that gives unlimited access to designated PCs through any web browser. Printing is supported. Security and privacy are built-in features.
Annual service cost for 1 PC, approx. $200. For more information,
visit www.gotomypc.com
Symantec pcAnywhere
From Symantec, pcAnywhere is popular for remote access . Remote printing is not available. Configuring connections and security features can be difficult.
Cost for software is approx. $200. For more information, visit www.symantec.com/pcanywhere/
Timbuktu
Timbuktu Pro by Netopia is a remote control solution which works with both Windows and Mac OS platforms. Timbuktu also offers security and ease-of-use features for remote collaboration and communication.
Cost for software is approx. $200. For more information, visit www.netopia.com
Apple Remote Desktop
Apple Remote Desktop with real-time screen sharing gives you the power to access Mac systems remotely across the Internet. OS X is required on the client computer (the computerr accessing remotely) and direct printing is not supported, though work arounds are available.
Cost for 10-client software is $299. For more information, visit www.apple.com/remotedesktop/
Internet Connection Issues
DSL and Cable connections are recommended for remote access. These services are now widely available at reasonable costs. Dial-up connections are not fast enough for effective remote access. Dual ISDN is an option for client connections. If your company is using Windows Terminal Services or Citrix, consult with your service provider concerning direct connections to a server. Modems or routers must be configured to redirect remote session requests. Wireless Internet access using microwave transmitters can successfully provide remote access. Satellite Internet connections are not successfully used for remote access, due to high latency in the data round-trip. |
|
|
