I currently use openssh and putty to access my server remotely. I use "localhost" instead of an ip address when I am referencing it to access files and such on the server. I am trying to access some filemaker files that are being hosted on the server but cannot seem to see them. Any suggestions?

It sounds to me as if you're trying to access the server through some sort of share. This won't work, and also indicaes that you have OS level sharing enabled. That is not good for the server or for your files.

When you have accessed your network through a VPN channel, you can launch FileMaker Pro, either on your remote machine or on a remote desktop. Then you can access the files on FileMaker Server via the Open File dialog in FMP by choosing Open Remote.

Take a look at the Server Tech Brief on the FMI site:

http://www.filemaker.com/support/upgrade/technriefs.html

Steven