Introduction

Remote access servers are utilized by remote users who need access to data and applications that reside on a corporate server. Remote terminals for mainframe computers was one of the earliest methods of connecting and using network applications, but users soon demanded access to the PCs connected to the network. Thus was born remote control.

Remote control of networked computers soon required that dedicated PCs be ready to accept remote control requests from any number of end-users at any time. It wasn t unusual for a company to have racks and racks of PCs and modems just waiting for a dial-up user to connect. Remote access grew out of the same need as remote control, but was more cost effective since only a modem was needed for each remote user (instead of another PC). The modem acted much like a network interface card (NIC). Remote access grew to incorporate the use of the Internet and virtual private networking (VPN) technologies.

Thin-client technology combines the best of both remote node and remote control. To maximize connectivity and functionality, a combination of remote access and remote control are necessary. Application performance can be optimized for older hardware, and even delivered to noncompliant client workstations.

Designing and Placing RAS Servers on the Network

The implementation of remote access on a Windows 2000 network can be very complex depending on your specific needs and requirements. Often, a simple Remote Access Services (RAS) solution will fulfill the requirements of a small organization. As the...