im not really sure but i think i want to create a VPN. My situation is this: my brother just moved out of my house. we would always love you play our networked games on our PCs and xboxes. we also share music, pics, and videos from our computers. i know there is tunneling software for gaming but i would also like to share documents. we both have 3.0+ Mbps bandwidth so im not too concerned about lag for the videos and music. if i did create a VPN, would that also connect external devices such as a xbox... is there anyway i can make this happen for my bro and i??

I don't know the limitations or features of the XBOX systems but to interconnect your two LAN networks, you are correct, a VPN will be the best option. There are a couple of types of VPNs. The best solution for you will be a Site-to-Site VPN which essentialy means that you will need a router or router/firewall on each network that has VPN capabilities. Once the Secure VPN tunnel is established between the LAN networks, the desktops on each side will be able to communicate with each other. Take note of the model of routers/firewalls that both you and your brother have and look them up on the manufacturer's web site. If you have support on the routers that will be even better. The best scenario would be that both of you have the at least the same manufacturer and even better scenario will be that they are the same model device. The grass may not be greener on the other side . . . but it just might have less weeds. :-D