low-cost solution

I am helping to set up a small business network.

On the WAN side we'll have a single DSL connection and be supplied a DSL modem (I don't know what model yet - whatever AT&T supplies).

On the LAN side a very basic LAN - 4 PCs (no server) and 3 networked printers (wired - no wireless).

I have the need to remote connect (either Windows Remote Desktop or 3rd party - pc anywhere, etc.) to 2 different workstations. I also have the need for a decent firewall as 1 of the always on workstions will have financial information.

I am looking at two devices:
NetGear FR114PNA 4 Port Cable/DSL ProSafe Firewall/Print Server/Router
-- or --
NetGear FVS318NA Cable/DSL ProSafe VPN Firewall with 8 Port Router

which have good reviews but I am somewhat confused about the difference in VPN technologies. I know I will have to add a switch to the 4-port for additional ports - no biggie.

What is the difference between the "VPN" router and a router that is capable of mutiple port forwarding (which I believe maybe all I need)?

Do I need additional VPN software or hardware (router on other end) to use a VPN properly?

Any other ideas or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Glenn

i would go for the 8 port one. it's not much more for double the ports.

this router can do port forwarding, you can also make custom ports.

It does have VPN but can only to IPSEC tunnels. Also the client is NOT included with this router.

IF all your doing is offering up some services and don't need clients to connect to it's local lan then it would not be a big thing. If VPN is going to be important then i would recommend investing in a sonic wall.

The 338 is a 8 port router, with a WAN speed of around 92+mbps. I have it it was anotiable speed improvement. It has a decicated 266mhz x-scale cpu for handling 3des encryption. 16/32 meg of ram.

Client is included with this model (FVS338). Not the 318.

if you need to anything on the lan and you don't feel comfortable with port forwarding ports onto the internet then use a VPN otherwise just port forward them

the windows vpn client is crap just use a third party one like the on that ships with the 338 or something from sonicwall or cisco

I'd just look into a program like radmin or VNC. you could just set your Firewall up to forward port 9010 to 1st pc's port 4899, 9011 to 2nd pc's port 4899 etc. and make sure to set access lists to block incoming requests on those ports from IPs other then yours!