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Access Database accessed over the internet by multiple users, need info please

Question
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I have a customer who needs to access a shared access database over the internet with up to 5 simultaneous connections.
The database is not that large. I was going to use windows server to setup a VPN for the five computers, but someone said that is not a reliable option.
What is the best and most cost effective way to share a database over the internet?
Thursday, July 6, 2017 2:02 PM
All replies
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Hi Kevin,
Why isn't VPN a reliable option? I think remote connection is the "best" (maybe not the most cost-effective) way to share an Access file simultaneously over the Internet (if you must). However, I would still recommend using a split configuration if you do.
Just my 2 cents...
Thursday, July 6, 2017 2:43 PM -
I'm not sure if you know the answer, but how can I allow multiple VPN connections to the server without setting up some elaborate RAS server?
Thursday, July 6, 2017 3:41 PM -
Hi,
Just a thought... Can you use Remote Desktop Connection (RDP)?
Thursday, July 6, 2017 4:06 PM -
I don't think so, it's a small operation and I don't think a $600 server license + $1000 in CAL is really in their plan.Thursday, July 6, 2017 4:57 PM
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Hmm, I may be missing something, but this page does not mention anything about cost.Thursday, July 6, 2017 5:08 PM
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Take a look at a few options elaborated in http://www.devhut.net/2016/09/24/access-back-end-location-wan-online-server-onedrive-dropbox/
You can also get remote hosting, something like: http://accesshosting.com/ (I have no affliation, just relaying a possibility).
Daniel Pineault, 2010-2016 Microsoft MVP
Professional Support: http://www.cardaconsultants.com
MS Access Tips and Code Samples: http://www.devhut.net
- Edited by Daniel Pineault (MVP)MVP Thursday, July 6, 2017 5:19 PM
Thursday, July 6, 2017 5:18 PM -
Why not get an Azure account. A cheap backend database 2gb is like 5 bucks a month. Its super simple to just use linked tables. Then just create a versioning of your front end so if the program opens and is not the correct version it won't run. Then coordinate a way to publish updates to those 5 machines. Such as onedrive or dropbox to retrieve updated FEs?Thursday, July 6, 2017 5:19 PM
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MS Access is not designed for access over the internet due to the way it uses locking files. I'd convert the Access database to SQL Express and proceed from there.
- Proposed as answer by Edward8520Microsoft contingent staff Wednesday, July 12, 2017 8:15 AM
Friday, July 7, 2017 8:46 PM