Leased line or internet ?

I hope you can help me. I have been programming in Clipper before and not much under networking environment. Now I have to do a program in VB6 and I have just some knowledge in VB but I think I can learn fast. Anyway, I need to have client stations located across the sea (I am on an island) connected to the mainland. Now, I am thinking of using a leased line from a telephone company but it costs a bit high. Now I am thinking if I could possibly use the internet for this kind of environment. The program basically let the client station user updates and checks on databases stored in the server on the island. Can you guys suggest something ? And we way is easier - the leased line (network) or the internet way? Also, if I opted for the internet way, is it secure or can it be made secure? Thanks guys.

i'm not sure about encryption, but I have been able to access my SQL Server at home from work over the internet, so there is no reason why you could not do it. My server is hooked up via a cable modem and is always connected (i love it!) to the internet, so access is not a problem.

You will need a way to get the IP of the server computer, but other than that, it should work as normal, just sorta slow.