Step 1) Configure the desktop for remote access.
http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/turn-on-remote-desktop-in-windows-vista/
Also, download the latest Microsoft Remote Desktop client from the App Store.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/microsoft-remote-desktop/id715768417?mt=12
Step 1a) Install
Teamviewer for remote access while you're away from home. Remote Desktop & Teamviewer are complementary to each other.
Step 2) Install iTunes & turn on home sharing (I assume this step is already done?)
Step 3) Decide how you want to back up your Mac. You could go the
Time Machine route or you could use something like
Crashplan. The free version of Crashplan includes the ability to back up from one computer to another. If you want to combine that with offsite backups, go ahead and sign up.
Next Steps
Step 4) Install
OpenVPN to create a more secure network when you are away from home.
Step 5)
DVDFab for ripping DVD's & BluRay.
Step 6)
Handbrake for converting the DVD & BluRay Rips to .m4v files for playback on just about any modern device: Mac, PC, USB (direct TV input), iPhone, Android, AppleTV, Roku, etc.
Step 8) If you're into Minecraft, download the standalone
server and host a local, private server for you & your friends. Use a
Dynamic DNS service and
port forwarding to allow them to connect from anywhere.