I’ve recently tried some configurations on my my home / work computers and mobile devises to communicate remotely over a simple internet connection.  This is very useful for file transfers, syncing music collections, remotely operating computers and keeping projects moving forward while working on different machines.

I’ve evaluated three different solutions and want to weigh in but also encourage feedback and use case from other power users.  I’ll identify some of the the different hardware / software solutions I’ve found and used.  I’ve always found traditional VPN to be cumbersome and slow, especially on the MAC, these new variations are great but many are limited and I have found a combination provide the best solutions.

• LogMeIn.com
  • Great cross platform remote access
  • Use Case: Working from home, I simply operate my work computer in full screen mode at home. No need to sync files, everything at work is available on my screen in real time.  Slight lag, not an issue.
  • Price: Basic features are free, many option for advance features.
• Dropbox.com
  • File synchronization
  • Use Case: Install the DropBox folder on all of your computers and mobile devises.  Add a file or folders to the DropBox and every computer / devise that has DropBox installed now has the file in the DropBox folder.  Don’t have to email myself files, much larger files can be moved remotely with ease.
  • Price: 8GB Free | 50 GB $99 per year | 100GB $199 per year
• PogoPlug.com
  • Local control of cloud storage
  • Use Case: Want to utilize a 100 GB media library on a 16 GB mobile device…no problem with a Pogo enabled Dock connected to a home router and the free account, access those files from anywhere.
  • Price: The docks range, Seagate GoFlex Net dock, around $80, and a portable 500 GB drive is the same. Cheaps!

On a side note, personally I don’t buy top of the line for most computer related upgrades.  Middle of the line or previous release usually does the trick, and saves some coin for travel, diner out and generally less geeky things.

An increasing number of individuals are making their purchases online.  Being in the business of helping folks take care of business on the web I make it a point to do most of my shopping via the internet.  Since Amazon first launched in 1996 one thing is for certain online sales are booming and here to stay.  While the majority of retail business are in recession, e-commerce projected growth is the most dramatic evidence of a popular trend.

Now we could talk marketing, usability and buying trends or how to avoid shopping cart abandonment.  But I want to give some buying advice and recommend some sites you may not have heard of. (I’m actually writing this post as a distraction so I don’t make a late night purchase.)

My best purchases have undoubtedly been on http://www.ebay.com but everyone has heard of ebay.

Closely behind ebay is a relatively new, award winning site.  http://www.backcountry.com I bought some great Oakley goggles and Marmot ski pants at significant discounts.  This site carries top notch brands and the high-end outdoor gear that you may not find at REI or EMS.  The vibe is definitely gear head and they cater to the enthusiast.  The know their market and tell a story of adventure and commitment to outdoor sports, and the lifestyle of giving it all on the mountain.  Check their blog and monthly zine for reviews and adventure logs.

Next is http://www.amazon.com can’t be beat for electronics, books and gifts.  But again everyone has heard of shopping that’s a vast as a river in South America.

If you want to continue purchasing for outdoor adventure but have a tight budget try http://www.sierratradingpost.com or http://www.llbean.com classic catalogs, great sites.

One thing that I haven’t had much luck with is cloths and shoes.  Better to try it on in the store.

For computer stuff I like http://www.macconnection.com / http://www.pconnection.com great prices and very clean, easy to use sites.  Some of the other computer / electronic sites are busy and try to throw too many products and options at the user.

I have to mention http://www.etsy.com the crafty jewelry and gift site, a great out of the box concept that has brought many artisan creations to market.  Also http://www.woot.com started the deal of the day phenomena that is the current trend.

I encourage users to give their top picks and reviews.

Two new sites have hit my radar and resulted in saving money and getting great gear:
1. http://www.o2gearshop.com
2. http://www.campsaver.com

Just saved 60% on new hiking boots and new skis (hopefully).  Need better half’s approval.

Here are some pretty sweet items that you can buy on the interwebs.

For all you graphic heads, here is my favorite hi-end content website.
http://www.veer.com

The new all in one Samsung Sound Bar  / Blue Ray Player.

http://ces.cnet.com/8301-19167_1-10134014-100.html

The new Blackberry Tour – pretty f-in sweet.

http://na.blackberry.com/eng/devices/blackberrytour/tour_features.jsp

The new Mac Book Pro.
http://www.apple.com/macbookpro/