Question : VNC : Configuration

I am a resident of Ottawa who would like to provide maintenace for my Parents PC in Chilliwack. I think that this should be possible using VNC software. I sent them the server software (it's a little over a mb) and have asked them to install. I will install the viewer on my box here at work. I will be using a T1 communicating through their Telus 28.8 dialup. My question is, how should I obtain their IP address/hostname (I will need this for my viewer of course) and is it possible through both Telus and my employers Firewall. Do I simply ask my folks to perform ipconfig to obtain that info? Will their IP be static or is it dynamic (dhcp)?

Answer : VNC : Configuration

You should ask your folks for the IP, as it may vary - depending on the ISP. A tool like ICQ or similar may also do the job. If your folks move ofver the VNC icon in the tray, the IP will pop up as hint - very useful and easier to use and explain than ipconfig or winipcfg.

Then, for the firewall, if it doesn't block outgoing traffic to port 5900, VNC will work just fine.