Question : Problem: options for accessing resources through a VPN

I have just setup my first VPN! YaHoo!   using Windows SBS2000
It is intended to be used by remote employees to access company Documents and store Job Files.
I can make the connection from a client outside the firewall through the "Network Connection & Dial-up" wizard for "Make a new Connection"  But then what?
    Question #1
How is this usually done.  Map network drives...shortcuts?
I guess I never thought past setting up the connection.

We also use a Pervasive/SQL Database App called Timberline.  We have been discussing having some remote users, the ability to run the Client software over the VPN.  This opened my eyes to some new Possibilities!  That's been happening alot lately.

    Qestion #2
What are some other ways a VPN "can be of use"?
or
What are some different ways to access a VPN?

Answer : Problem: options for accessing resources through a VPN

A#1 - you can use either (map drive, or shortcuts). One thing to be aware of is name resolution over the VPN, if it's not working, try mapping/broswing by IP address instead (eg "net view \\192.168.1.1")

A#2 - The typical use of a VPN is to allow outside users access to resources on the internal network. This can be any application you want. You need to be aware that some things work well & others don't. Anything that is high bandwidth may not work the best (or it will choke your Internet connection). The VPN is usually established by a remote user connecting to the Internet (dial-up, ADSL, Cable, etc) and then starting a VPN connection over the Internet to your VPN-server device.

Your questions are a little vague, maybe some reading for you:

http://www.cisco.com/go/vpn
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/vpn.htm