Category: Geeks r Us
I had the crazy idea recently to build a small community VPN (virtual private network) for others to join for exchange of files, chat, and other services. It seems pretty straightforward, but I have a few issues to still hash out.
First, I should explain that I want it to be very easy to use, so I've looked at three options:
1. OpenVPN - Open source, but a bit of a pain to configure, and the routing of traffic on different subnets is a royal pain, but there is so much flexibility in how the network can be used. Since I'm stuck on Windows XP or Vista, not very many packages for Windows are available to act as a router using BGP or OSPF protocols.
2. Hamachi - Slow, inaccessible, and awkward to use. Picky about routers, and it is notorious for making older systems crawl. Need I say more?
3. Remobo - Fairly new, but untested. Easy to settup, seems mostly accessible (there is some JAWS cursor action required for a couple of items), and routing seems to be built-in (see post in Garage Sale). Maybe a good choice?
My motivation is to have a community network open for those who want to exchange files (within reason, of course ;) ), set up services, and build a community of friends. Yes, it will be secure, and just about anyone is welcome to join in the blind community (and some sighted friends as well), so don't feel like I'm leaving you out (unless you're on my blacklist).
Opinions? Want to test the idea out? Want to help? Get in touch with me using a private quick note or Skype (my Skype ID is Gregory.Lopez), and let's see what we can create. Of course, you can (and should) post here too.
--Enigma
I'd go with Open VPN, and set up routing, dns, and other infrastructure on something like a linux VPS. I use one on linode.com for some projects and have heard good things about slicehost.com.