QUESTIONS THAT APPLY TO THIS TOPIC
- What is a VPN?
- What is a WAN?
- Why should I not use VPN or WAN?
- How can I use Gorilla in another office?
ANSWER
What is a VPN?
VPN stands for “Virtual Private Network.” It is a type of network design that is not hard wired to your internal network. VPN is a security enabled “Internet” connection. It is broadcasted over the internet with security protocols.
The advantages of using this type of connection is you can virtually connect to your data from anywhere in the world.
The disadvantages are that you have security risks and speed issues.
What is a WAN?
WAN stands for “Wide Area Network.” It is a type of network design used to connect 2 (or more) locations together. It uses a connection that is “leased” from a provider. Though this is technically a dedicated connection for you and your company, it still has many inherent networking risks.
The advantages of this type of connection: It is secure and dedicated.
The disadvantages are cost of the connection, stability of the connection, and the speed capabilities.
Why should I not use these?
The previous mentioned connections aren’t recommended due to their stability and speed issues. Depending on the distance, hardware included in the connections, and other varying contributors, it can also cause unnecessary security risks.
How can I use Gorilla in another office?
We have a few recommended ways to do this:
- Use a Terminal server.
- Use Remote Desktop Protocols.
- Use a Remote Connection Software.
Use of a Terminal Server
- The advantage of using this type of connection is that you can have a secure connection that connects to the database locally from any other location that has access.
- The disadvantage of this connection is that if you do not close your Gorilla program and just log out, it can leave the program open on an un-used session. This also requires an investment in hardware.
- Additionally, Terminal Servers are not supported by Bill Good Marketing Software Support.
Use of a Remote Desktop Protocol
This is connecting via a static IP address. Basically, it is doing the work on the machine in the building. Therefore, no true data is being transferred over the remote connection.
- The advantage of this type of connection is that the data is secure and network disconnects don’t cause issue.
- The disadvantage of this type of connection is it requires a computer that can’t be in use while remoted in. Both computers require internet access. Also, it requires a great amount of networking setup and isn’t as easily navigated by a normal user. You would need assistance from your in-house IT to set it up. • Additionally, the Remote Desktop Protocol isn’t supported by Bill Good Marketing Software Support.
Use of a Remote Connection Software
You can purchase multiple types of software that allow you to log onto your computer via the internet. Once again, this is a way of doing the work on the machine while not physically in the building.
- The advantages of this type of connection is that the software is pre-configured to assist you with getting connected by either internet browser interface or another type of software provided. Once the connection is setup it generally works without issue.
- The disadvantages of this is that the software may have a monthly cost associated. It requires to have a computer that can’t be used while you are remoted in. Also, both computers need an internet connection and you may need some assistance from your in-house IT to set it up.
- Additionally, the Remote Connection Software isn’t supported by Bill Good Marketing Software Support.