VPN for a LAN with all xp

[Guest]

I have 3 computers...2 are networked together with a crossover cable(xp
pro)...the third has no monitor, keyboard or mouse(xp home). I would like to
possible daisy chain the third comp to the network or use a hub/switch. How
can I set up a VPN to access this comp? When I mean access it...basically
take control of it like a remote assistance type deal...any help or
suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[Walter Clayton]

You don't need VPN for that. VPN is intended for use over public networks.
Your's is private.

What you will need, other than connectivity which means a hub/switch, is
Win2K, XP Pro or a server distro on the headless machine. You will need to
temporarily hook monitor, keyboard and mouse up to it so that you can add
yourself as an admin user on the machine (unless it's a server distro) and
enable remote desktop support (not sure it that's available on Win2K), or
install a 3rd party app like PCAnywhere. Server is a bit different and I've
not dealt with the specifics on using in-box tools, but I believe RD is
supported on Server 2003.

Once the machine is configured for remote access, move the
monitor/mouse/keyboard back.

Don't forget that you'll need to log into the machine and use command line
shutdown in order to shut it down or restart it.

I actually do pretty much this same thing with my laptop at home.

 

[Guest]

Even better than PCAnywhere is a program called RealVNC. Since the computer
will be on your network, you can transfer files with mapped drives. (RealVNC
doesn't support File Transfers)

You can get the program for free at www.realvnc.com. The best part is that
it is free and doesn't come bundled with spyware. Also nice about it is that
the whole program is less than 10mb.

I use it on my home network to power a pc holding all my music files. It is
in a closet with no monitor, mouse or keyboard.

Sweet program. Vice it a try.