I have a small business and want to be able to connect securely to the local network server when I'm on the road. I use GoToMyPC, but that's pretty slow and cumbersome. Is there a simple way to connect to the server directly, and still be safe at a Wi-Fi hotspot?

There a lot of options, but all center around one word: VPN. Most network servers (and individual PCs) can be set up to for Web access, so that you can connect directly through a remote browser to upload and download files. Assuming you have Web access configured, the other part of the equation is security. That's where VPN comes in. Virtual Private Networks are secure encrypted "tunnels" between two endpoints: your computer on the road, and your home or business network. Most major Wi-Fi router vendors offer VPN models with built-in support for one or more simultaneous remote VPN connections. And prices are not much more than regular routers, starting around $150.

Netgear's ProSafe 802.11g Wireless VPN Firewall 8 (FVG318) supports up to eight remote users at a time, who can be working at home, or at a hotspot. You can also connect multiple offices with a single tunnel between each location. Another example is Linksys' Wireless-G VPN Broadband Router (WRV54G), which supports up to 50 remote users.

But you don't need to set up your own VPN for just one or two users. Individual VPNs like JiWire SpotLock will keep you secure at any hotspot, and require little or no configuration.