Networking computers from different networks

Okay so I'm gonna try and see if this works.


So, I have a simple PC as a file/printer server. No, everyone on MY network has permission to access their own folders from the server PC. Now, my friends live in different houses and I want them to be able to access my server PC from their house on different networks.

Are my friends able to connect to my server through their own network?

 

Anyone know how to do what I'm trying to figure out?

 

VPN would allow you to connect to your server from a remote location but you'll have to do some studying to accomplish it. The basic setup is not too tough but you want to make sure it's secure.

You need to set the router at the server location to accept incoming VPN connections and then establish the connection on the remote computer.

 

Yep, VPN you can use Hamachi or Gbridge.

http://www.gbridge.com/
https://secure.logmein.com/products/hamachi/vpn.asp

Both rather easy compared to a full blown VPN set up.

 

I wanted to be able to share files with firends and have them do the same thing with me while they are on different networks.

All this seems to do is be a messaging system.

 

Gbridge: "If you have two or more computers running Gbridge
* Access your files cross your computers, e.g. instant mp3 play, securely and easily through SecureShare."

I use Hamachi from my g/f place to access my local shares all the time...
" LAN over the Internet Arrange multiple computers into their own secure network, just as if they were connected by a physical cable.
• Files and Network Drives Access critical files and network drives."


yeah, messaging?

 

Well, untill I messed with it more, Hamachi I thought was just a messaging system.

So, both of these programs, I'm able to connect to my friend's computer and he can do same for mine through two different networks right?