Your second problem sounds like the status information that goes to the console. Depending on your configuration, you may be able to select a different virtual console. Try pressing CTRL-ALT-F2 to get a different one and a new login prompt. If it works, then CTRL-ALT-F1 will take you back. F3 .. F6 should also work.
As for your first problem, I don't know what the problem is, but if you have users in different cities accessing each others' servers, I would consider installing
OpenVPN to create an encrypted path between the two gateways. I use it between work and home and I love it. Once it's set up, it's totally transparent.