Hello all.

I have two networks, Network A and Network B. These networks are, of course, separate from one ANOTHER and are actually contained in two separate buildings.

Network A has a Windows Server 2003 machine residing on it. This machine will be set up to act as a file server. Users who are directly connected to Network A will have no problem retrieving or storing files on the machine. Network B is another story.

How do I get users on Network B to be able to connect to the file server on Network A? Can it be set up on the file server running Windows Server 2003? I assume this is solved with a VPN, but I don't know how to set one up.

Also, all users will be running Windows XP (and a few ME) on their client machines. Both networks are mixed with wired and wireless connections.

Thanks!

EDIT: I am sorry, can this be moved to the NETWORKING section? Thanks.Are these two networks in any way interconnected?Hello!

No, Network A and Network B are in no way interconnected.

At least not until I figure out how to set up a VPN.

Thanks!If there is no physical connection between the networks, you would either have to create one (physically LAY a wire between them) or set up a VPN. If you want to setup a VPN, you first need to select a VPN program that suits your needs. Without knowing more about your networks or the traffic on them, it's difficult to tell you more.Hello again!

There can be no physical connection or wireless connection between the networks, they buildings they reside in are simply too far apart.

Can the machine that I am using as a file server also be set up to run the VPN? The machine is running Windows Server 2003 and I notice there is an OPTION to set up a role called Remote Routing and VPN.

Or do you need a separate machine to do the VPN? I have never set up a VPN before and I may be slightly unclear as to what they can accomplish.

Thanks!There's quite a bit to setting up a VPN. Microsoft TechNet has a nice section about VPNS:
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/network/bb545442.aspx

Have a read through that and see if it gives you some direction.