Remote Access Solutions

Forsythes IT can provide a solution for any business that requires remote access to office computing resources utilising a range of products.   Remote access solutions vary for different business requirements.  

Access Type - (Remote Control)

It is possible to utilise remote control technology to shadow a server for remote system administration or to take control of a users desktop PC from outside of the office to remotely control applications or access to files. Generally for a smaller number of users the functionality of Windows Remote Web Workplace (RWW) included in Microsoft Windows SBS 2003 Server is ideal for this task.  It integrates with Remote Desktop connection (RDC) functionality built into Windows XP Professional and Server.   If the user remote controls a desktop PC for purposes of running applications using (RDC) then this PC must be dedicated to the task. 

Access Type - (Email using Web Browser)

Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 has functionality to deliver Outlook Web Access giving users access from a Web Browser to email, contacts, calendar and tasks securely and easily. 

Access Type - (synchronised access)

Small Business Server 2003 also provides functionality to integrate with Windows Mobile devices alowing for email, contacts, calendar and other information to be accessed virtually anywhere at any time.  This can be driven by the remote user with an Internet connection that can securely synchronise information from products such as Microsoft Exchange 2003 Server.  Windows Mobile 5.0 devices and Microsoft Security and Feature Pack allows for push updates to devices and more advanced security feaures. (Requires SBS 2003 and Exchange Server 2003 Service Pack 2) 

Access Type - (Permanent Branch Office or Multiuser access)

Where a more permanent solution is required such as branch office access or providing remote access for a larger number of users, we recommend solutions based on Windows Terminal Services and Citrix Presentation Server.  This solution requires a minimum of a separate dedicated server running Windows 2003 Server that is shared for remote users.  

Citrix Presentation Server greatly enhances the functionality of Microsoft Windows Terminal Services resulting in an enhanced user experience.   Windows Terminal Services may be sufficient for smaller sites that do not require the additional functionality of Citrix Presentation Server. (Differences between Terminal Services and Citrix Presentation Server)

Centrally deployed applications and service packs can be installed once on the server and deployed instantly for all users in a multi-user environment.  Users are displaying graphical Windows screen information and keyboard information in remote sessions.  The session is retained on the Citrix Presentation / Windows Terminal Server and network access is kept within the office.  This makes this solution ideal for deploying over slower communications links or the Internet.

Access Type - (Thin Client)

Citrix and Windows Terminal Services can make use of Thin client devices (sometimes called Windows Based Terminals).  

A thin client is a low-cost (less than PC) centrally-managed device generally devoid of CD-ROM players, diskette drives, and expansion slots. They are very reliable due to no moving parts and suitable for connection to Windows Terminal Services or Citrix Presentation Server. The thin client device has the capability to run the Windows operating system that is deployed centrally.   Forsythes IT provides solutions incorporating Wyse thin client devices.