Taran:
Let's address the FUD myths first:
1. you get what you pay for is not always the truth. The cga server runs Linux...a free operating system which by it's very deisgn is more secure than windows...doesn't have the litany of security issues of windows...is free..and 99% of all system updates do NOT require a reboot. If you want to hear about the basic design flaw<s> in windows head to
http://www.emmanuelcomputerconsulting.com/archives/1950
2. The apache webserver platform is the number one webserver across windows AND linux servers. Compared to IIS it has much better security and does not suffer from remote system takeover flaws as much as iis does and apache costs nothing. apache is more secure by design.
Now for other issues:
3. My and Gen both hook into TS from behind my firewall without issue and have been since we started using teamspeak over 7 years ago..this is nothing new.
4. Ventrillo has some very draconian Terms of service that place anyone running a vent server at a security risk. As per the licensing agreement for 3.0.0 which has been present since 2,x:
4.1.8 You agree not to use any kind of router, firewall or other internet device to
redirect IP or port numbers to obscure the actual IP address and port number of
any of your Servers on which the Software is installed.
This means NAT is out. Many many folks use NAT to share an ip or for security or both(including hosting providers). While this is only one layer you aren't allowed to use it's one of the primary layers used.
5. you can send messages including links in teamspeak as well either privately or publicly and have been able to for at least 5 years.
Now in vent's favor:
1. individualized volume controls
2. Sound quality(i am going by folks posts on this one)