URGENT!!!! Transactional replication through VPN

[Anu]

Hi Guys,

Here is the current situation of the client

They have 2 OLTP databases.

One is 25 Gig (SQL Server 7.0)
One is 55 Gig (SQL Server 2000)


It is in remote location (UK) where 2 OLTP databases resides
My client is in New jersey

We are planning to do Transactional replication for the reporting from these two database using VPN

Can you please give me some tips about replication using VPN

Source (2 Publishers in UK 2 OLTP databases resides)

Need 2 distributors (Local or Remote) – Any suggestions

2 Subscribers (in New jersey) (Push/ Pull) – Any suggestions

I need to snap shot in the initial stage of replication - What type is best just snapshot, ftp or....

Any issues regarding the performance, latency, timeout, Need to take care off, security, VPN issues,…..

I appreciate if you guys help me with this as I have to take a correct decision regarding this environment.

Thanks
Anu