[NTLUG:Discuss] remote control of machine with non-routable IP

[Chris Cox]

On Wed, 2009-05-27 at 05:38 -0500, Ralph Green wrote:
> Howdy,
>   I am thinking about how to remotely control the desktops of Linux
> users desktops.  The users will be inexperienced with Linux and I have
> almost complete control over what software is installed on their
> machines to start them off.  I was originally thinking of running vnc
> over ssh where ssh used pre-shared keys and no password connections to
> ssh were allowed.  I was going to setup dynamic dns names for each user
> that were updated when they connect to the internet.  But, it occurs to
> me that some users may not have routable ip addresses.    How would I
> reach them?  I'll add that I never want to control their machines
> without their approval or secretly.  It will only be to help them with a
> problem when they contact me.
>  If it affects the suggestions, I might use NoMachine instead of VNC.
> After Chris Cox's presentation a while back, I see the performance
> benefits.  I just don't have as much experience with it.

For remote out-of-band control, if we're talking Linux/Unix, I use
serial port console units.  Just another possible option.  Of course,
you'll need IP or dialup to the serial console unit.

Remember that with ssh all you need it to be able to hit a machine
with visibility to the other machine.  So visibility/routability to
one host that has visibility to machines that are not routable will
work.

Alternatively, I think there might be come client side remote control
things out there... where the client initiates.  I haven't explored
those options.... but they have to be out there.  Obvioulsy they CAN
establish a reverse ssh.... but there might be something
simpler (more friendly) out there.