Alan Aldaba 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
>
> most cost effective) ? Any url's, links to tutorials about the subject
> will be most welcome...
>
> All the Best,
>
>         Allan

as far as brands go:
3 Com 3c905's are EXCELLENT they do 10/100MBps
Netgear hubs

If you go the linux route (I'd recommend FreeBSD is your more UNIX
inclined)
you'll need it setup like this:
upstream-----[router box]---[8port hub]----[machine 1]
             {2 NIC's}          \ \ \------[machine 2]
                                 \ \ \-----[machine 3]
                                  \ \------[machine 4]
                                   \-------[machine 5]

so your need a total of 7 network cards an eightport hub and an extra
machine
keep in mind that the FreeBSD/Linux box doesn't need to be anything more
than a cheap 486dx266 as all it is is a router
you need to get the following setup on it to have it work
DHCP server
IPNAT (IP Network address translation) [OR] IP masquerade

you could get real fancy and not use DHCP and statically assign the
machines IP addresses but DHCP will be the simplest way
I figure $40 per NIC
         $50 for a hub
         $50 cabling (IF their close together)
         $70 for a 486
about 5 hours (maybe more/ maybe less) getting the server to work
correctly AFTER everything is connected.

if you DO decide to go this route make the DHCP server give out IP
addresses that are NOT part of the internet usually 10.0.0.X or
192.168.X.X.
as far as services go if you use linux I'd recommend turning OFF all
UNUSED services such as chargen,finger, just about everything. for
security reasons.

How UNIX inclined are you? I hope you know your way around a unix
filesystem  if your going to attempt this. you can contact me off the
list if you have some questions. I AM NOT the LINUX GUY! I don't use
linux and haven't in a long time. I DO know a some things about FreeBSD.

                Damon Hopkins