Hi
I) is vnc right for me?
I essentially administer my aging parents pc from miles away (over the phone, or when I visit, not easy). What I want to be able to do is keep their PC up-to-date with anti-virus, various applications, to fix problems, and to show them steps while talking over phone.
To me this sounds like the best thing for VNC - but keep in mind that you probably need to install it as a service since it should start before the user loggs in. I have done the same thing (updating virus scanner...) You need to take care of any firewalls on your parents system. For example kerio personl firewall is asking me always if a program is allowed to be replaced after an update ... this way you could find yourself be locked out one day (but a simple call to your parents should solve the problem
)
Me: winXP home, behind wireless router, cable
Them: winXP home, laptop, behind wireless router, cable
should work. In my experience windows 2000, router, dsl on both sides: No problem (of course as long as the the port forwarding is set properly). PS: I am using the encryption plugin for more security.
2) Is ultravnc the best vnc for me?
I want to do no harm, and to be safely encrypted over internet, and it looks like ultravnc is a sufficient choice. From my quick research, I don't see reason to instead consider realvnc and tightvnc. If anyone strongly disagrees please let me know.
My experience ultra IS the best.
3) I think I'm just capable of being able to handle it technically.
I've setup my system, their system, with routers etc.. I've setup ports on the routers before, e.g. for internet camera. Know just enough to be dangerous. Are the above sufficient prequisites, or is this for the experts only? It looks like getting the ports setup through the routers, and not using the default ports, are things to watch out for.
No, that should be no problem for you. You obviously can work with your router (camera) so there should be no problem for ultra - I myself are using different ports as well (for improved security). Again, if you have a firewall, keep in mind to set that properly too, otherwise nothing will happen. You can NOT try locally because that most likely will be fine with your firewall.
I also suggest you get a dyndns (dyndns.org) ip address for the computer (=internet connection) you are referring too. This way you will not bother your parents because you need their ip address.
3) Does ultravnc uninstall peacefully if things don't work out?
I am not sure what you mean, but I believe yes is the answer.
olaf0000@team-noehring.de (substitute 0000 with the year we have)
Olaf
