>What's the word on accessing SQL Server from VFP using ODBC over the internet, using either a VPN or opening a port to the server? In the past, I've heard reports of connectivity/reliability problems, but assuming you have DSL, Cable, or better, I wonder if that is still an issue. Microsoft documentation doesn't seem to have a problem with it and treats it as a proper, common way to connect to the server.

As long as you have fast and reliable connection to internet and there're no routing problems between you and SQL Server, connectivity is not an issue but security is. If you're opening a port to the SQL Server, anybody on internet can try to access it.