SQL 2000 and MSDE/Express/Compact edition..

I have a SQL 2000 database on our server and intend to roll out a
desktop app with MSDE 2000 backend to 300 clients enabling them to
work offline then sync with our SQL server.

I have set this up in a demo environment and it appears to work OK as
long as MSDE subscriber is on the same LAN or connected via VPN, which
isnt going to be possible with 300 external clients.. Its also failry
cumbersome to install and I am unsure if I can even create an MSI
which will install it, setup security login to be used as agent and
replicate [being as it wouldnt be connected to SQL server at the
clients office]..

I have been doing further testing with this and lots of questions are
popping up, I wonder if anyone can help?

1 - The remote clients will not be connected to the main SQL via VPN,
do I have to leave a port open for SQL from WAN to LAN for
replication? If so I dont like the look of this?

2 - As I understand MSDE2000 can only be installed by local admin and
msi installs default instance. If this is true it appears I will need
to visit every client to configure their machines, add local sqladmin
accounts etc... seems harsh..

3 - Our database will be stored locally on a user laptop, MSDE offers
no method to lockdown so we could be in big trouble should the laptop
go missing? Again seems an oversight..

4 - Has anyone used 2005 express or better still 2005 compact edition?
These both seem to offer better local security and the compact version
can be rolled out at 2mb. Would appreciate any opinions as I will need
to upgrade the production server to 2005 also if this method is indeed
the best route..

Thanx

G
.

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