Automation system network management, architectures, and methods and applications thereof

A method of managing an automation system comprising:

• providing at least one virtual private network server;
• implementing an automation system including at least an automation controller configured to control a plurality of peripheral devices, each configured to perform at least one function relating to automation in a facility;
• configuring the automation controller to establish a virtual private network with the virtual private network server;
• overseeing the operation of the automation system via the virtual private network server;
• and
• configuring the external network resource to store operational settings from one automation controller in one system on another automation controller in another system having a common owner, and communicate with at least one area controller when the automation controller is unable to communicate with the external network resource.

An energy management system comprising:

• a plurality of peripheral devices, each configured to perform at least one function relating to energy consumption in a facility;
• an automation controller in communication with the plurality of peripheral devices and providing for the control of the performance of the function by each device based on at least one input;
• and,
• an external network resource including at least a virtual private network server and configured to enable communication with the automation controller, wherein the automation controller includes virtual private network software configured to establish and maintain a secure data link with the virtual private network server to enable control of the automation controller via the virtual private network server wherein the external network resource is configured to enable operational settings from the automation controller in the system to be stored on another automation controller in another system having a common owner, and communicate with at least one area controller when the automation controller is unable to communicate with the external network resource.