At 10:13 AM 5/8/00 +0800, you wrote:
>Hi all,
>
>    I want to network 5 computers and share internet connection among
>them... what advises can you give me to avoid problems in getting it to
>work. I want to do it in the cheapest but reliable and stable
>configuration possible.. What brands (nic, hubs) do you recommend  ( the

I use a Linux box as a masquerading firewall between a broadband net
connection and my internal LAN with a handful of computers on it. The
firewall machine thus has two NIC's in it. The LAN runs TCP/IP over
Ethernet connections (thinnet, so no hubs). The technology isn't all
that important if it meets your speed requirements and is supported..
Linux support for 10/100 is not 100% at this time.

Advantages:     pretty much bulletproof security, very stable O/S
                        especially if you only run basic services

                        built in web server, FTP server etc.

Disadvantages:  another machine (may be considered an advantage!)

                        can't run "risky" software like netmeeting and ICQ
                        on the LAN

                        non-trivial to set up


I first had it set up using Sygate software (US$40) on a Win98 computer, using
zonealarm for a bit more security but was having some problems with
this and worried about the security. This didn't require an extra box.


>most cost effective) ? Any url's, links to tutorials about the subject
>will be most welcome...
>
>All the Best,
>
>        Allan
>
>
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Spehro Pefhany --"it's the network..."            "The Journey is the reward"
speff@interlog.com             Info for manufacturers: http://www.trexon.com
Embedded software/hardware/analog  Info for designers:  http://www.speff.com
Contributions invited->The AVR-gcc FAQ is at: http://www.bluecollarlinux.com
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