MySQL remote access

[Jack LUNN]

This is mostly about setting up remote access with MySQL.
I'm new to MySQL but I know a bit about 'C' and msAccess.

I want to create MySQL database on a server (Microsoft Windows Server 2012) and I will manipulate it with C++ front ends from LAN PCs (all running Win7) and I also need internet access.

I have installed MySQL on my local PC and have copied some C++ code to open a database - all good using localhost/3306.

I'm currently going round in circles trying to set up remote access to MySQL databases.
I have looked at ...
modify ini files
using different ip addresses
granting privileges
etc.
but I feel like I'm being 'sucked into a quagmire of confusion'

I really need a step by step guide to accessing my local databases from networked PCs and over the internet.

Thanks