You can setup and configure the RetailEdge Island Workstation connection in several ways, depending on your setup and needs.

On a Local Area Network (LAN – Local network Both computers on same network) #

This works great if you want to work from home, then be able to sync up your changes (and get changes from the store), once you return to the store.  This is going to be the most cost effective and simplest way to set up an Island Workstation.

How it works: The Island workstation is connected to your main RetailEdge server via your store’s local network. If the Island workstation is disconnected from the LAN (for example, if you take it offsite), it continues to operate using local data. When reconnected, the Island Synchronization Engine automatically syncs changes between the Island and the main server.

Setup: Both computers must be on the same network, and the Island workstation’s server connection should be set to the main computer’s IP address (not 127.0.0.1).   You can get this by going to the main workstation’s Server Connection Settings, and pressing the LAN info button.   Ensure the network is working, the main computer’s IP is static, and firewalls/antivirus are configured to allow RetailEdge communication (port 12010)

Over a VPN #

This works great if you want to use your business’ network and computer infrastructure.  Using a VPN securely connects your remote computer to your business’ network.  In this scenario, all data is hosted and stays on your computers. (VPN Remote over internet VPN must be active and configured).  This setup is also cost effective (software VPNs are very inexpensive) but VPNs can be finicky and so might not be as reliable as you would like or need.

How it works: If you want to use an Island workstation from a remote location, you can connect to your store’s network using a VPN. This makes the remote Island workstation appear as if it’s on the same LAN as your main server.

Setup: Establish a VPN connection (using software like Hamachi or your preferred VPN solution), then set the Island workstation’s server connection to the main computer’s IP address as seen on the VPN. Ensure the VPN is running, and configure firewalls and antivirus to allow RetailEdge traffic.

Using RetailEdge Cloud Services #

Cloud services are an option when you don’t want to host your own master database or synchronization server.   A good graphic on the difference from the VPN option is shown here.  This can be a more affordable option than hosting it yourself depending on your businesses size and , and it is providing an off-site backup that we maintain for you.  An added advantage of using our cloud services, is that you can rent the Island.  Instead of paying for the Island workstation(s) outright, you pay-as-you-go and only pay $10/month.

How it works: RetailEdge offers the option to have the Island Synchronization Engine installed on their cloud server. This allows for synchronization between your Island workstation and the main store database via the cloud, offering more flexibility and less dependence on your own network infrastructure.

Setup: Contact RetailEdge support to have the Island Synchronization Engine set up on their cloud. Both your main and Island computers must have internet access. The Island workstation should be set to work from local data (IP 127.0.0.1), and synchronization will occur through the cloud service.

Setting It All Up #

Since RetailEdge Islands are a little more complex, regardless of the method you use, RetailEdge support will assist with setup and troubleshooting.  But since the VPN is yours to choose, it is up to you to set that part up and get it in place before we do the Island Setup.

Note: Businesses with Island Workstations need to be on a minimum of a Silver Updates Plan.