question about controlling a second computer

[yfan]

i'm thinking about building a cheap server computer that will always be on but was wondering since i'm limited on space, is there some software way of controlling/monitoring the computer using my existing computer's monitor/keyboard/mouse short of buying a KVM switch. I've got a usb mouse and keyboard and the kvms with usbs seem really really expensive.

 

[Arkaine23]

computer

Try:

TightVNC
VNC
PCanywhere

Any of these will open a window on your desktop containing the otehr computer's desktop. You may use the other computer through this window as if you were on it.

 

[yfan]

wow that looks to be exactly what i was looking for, do you have an experience in setting one up?, how difficult is it in terms of settings...

 

[Arkaine23]

VNC stuff

I have only tried to set it up so I could control computers at my friends' houses through the internet. It hasn't worked out yet. But doing it with other computers on the same LAN should be no sweat. I've got a KVM, so there's no point in using it on my LAN. I recommend TightVNC, its probably the fastest. Look for it with google.

 

[engjohn]

tight vns is simple...
1. Install it on the server...
2. select install service from the TightVNC start menu item. (on server)
3. Install client on client machines and start using it...