Network Hardware

What kind of network hardware do I need for the multi-user version?

Goldenseal currently runs on any type of LAN (Local Area Network).

The fastest and most secure network system uses Ethernet cable and an Ethernet router. However, it's not always possible or convenient to run wires.

You can also use Airport or another wireless network in your office.

Can users log in from a different location?

If you have high-speed connections in your office and elsewhere, you can connect remote users with a WAN (Wide Area Network) or VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN is the most convenient method for most people, since sends data through the plain old Internet.

How do I set up a VPN (Virtual Private Network)?

To use a VPN, you'll need to register a static IP address for your office (it will usually require DSL or other direct connections, rather than a cable modem). Contact your local ISP or networking guru to set up a static IP address.

You'll configure your virual private network through your firewall software. VPN capacity is also built into the operating system for Windows XP and newer, and Macintosh OS X.

When configuring clients to connect to the server over the Internet, use the static IP address for your server machine. Use port number 19782 for Goldenseal versions 3.01 and earlier. Use port number 21571 for Goldenseal 3.1 and later. You can also use a custom port number if you prefer.

Configuring TCP/IP can be challenging for beginners, so many businesses (even software companies!) bring in a "networking guru" to do the setup. Once you have it working, a VPN requires little maintenance.

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