When you cannot be at work but still must be able to monitor business information and employee performance, you can use your home computer to accomplish this task. Remote access allows you to tie into your business computer and receive information as it happens, Internet protocol (IP) cameras allow you to monitor employee-customer interactions and work performance, and tracking software allows access to individual computer workstations to monitor things such as email communications and Internet access. Using your home computer to monitor your business can make you as effective as if you were physically present.

Remote Access

Remote access options include a virtual private network (VPN) or enabling remote access software that allows you access a specific computer workstation. If your business computers connect through a private network, or Intranet, you can set up a VPN connection on your home computer to tie into the network. This secure connection requires a multistep setup process and a VPN client software program on your home computer. Microsoft includes this software as a built-in utility with all operating systems, or you can download it from your network service provider. The benefit of using a VPN connection is that you have access to the entire company Intranet, not just your personal workstation. If all you require is access to a specific workstation, setting a remote access connection to that workstation is possible. To enable a remote connection to your business computer, right-click either "Computer" or "My Computer" (depending on the version of Windows you are using) and select "Properties." From the "Remote Settings" tab, select "Allow Remote Access to This Computer." Click the "Computer Name" tab and write down the business computer name. From your home computer, click the "Start" button and in the "Run" or "Search" box type in "mstsc," then press "Enter." A remote connection box will appear asking for the name of your business computer. Type in the name of your business computer and press "Connect" to start the remote connection.

Internet Protocol (IP) Cameras

You can use Web cameras, or webcams, that allow you to view and meet with individual employees or install surveillance camera systems that allow you access to multiple locations within the business site. Many computers come equipped with webcam systems or you can purchase one from a third-party vendor. To use a webcam already on your computer, open an instant messenger or video conferencing program, such as Skype. The program will work to automatically detect your built-in webcam and provide connection instructions. If you decide to purchase a webcam from a third-party vendor, make sure it is compatible with your computer and follow installation instructions carefully. Following installation, these webcams connect for viewing the same as a built-in webcam.

Tracking Software

If company business rules do not allow employees to conduct personal business on their company workstation, you can track activity from your home computer with tracking software. Tracking software can record everything that occurs on an employee workstation, including email messages, visits to websites, downloads and instant messages. Options for viewing this activity include real-time monitoring, alerts you can set up that inform you when illegal activity occurs or regularly scheduled reports containing activity information. Stealth mode operation allows you to track activity without alerting employees to your investigation.

Source:

Microsoft.com: Using Remote Desktop with Windows XP

Netbus.org: Computer Tracking Software

Netgear.com: What is VPN

More Information:

DLink.com: Audio and Video Surveillance for Home/Office

TopTenReviews.com: Monitoring Software Reviews

Microsoft.com: Using Remote Desktop with Windows Vista