Network monitoring software and VPN question

Hi,

I would like to check with the experts here re. two issues:

1. I would like to install a network monitoring software for the office (about 13 PCs) but am not sure which one to choose and what functionalities should one look for. My purpose is basically to ensure that users are not surfing the Internet too much/visiting restricted sites, users log-on and log-off time, the basic functionalities. Please advise what software I should be looking for. Oh, also, is it possible for such software to allow sending of messages to another PC (eg. Using the s/ware I send a message to a PC and ask the user to stop visiting the restricted website)?


2. I am planning to use VPN to access office network because I will be travelling a lot soon. Which method of setting up would be best, using a VPN software or using a router that can create VPN tunnel? If the latter, is it safe to change my existing router (normal router with VPN pass-through) to a router that support Wi-Fi and can create VPN tunnel?

Thanks a lot!