COTSE | Help Desk | Linux Networking for the Beginners

This is an introduction into the world of Networking with Linux. For the uninitiated, Linux is a unix-like kernel, the creation of Linus Torvalds. This kernel, often paired with UNIX-like tools and programs from The GNU Project make up the bulk of what is found in most linux distributions today. Linux, carrying on in the strong networking tradition of classic UNIX systems, makes for a very nice solution to modern home networking needs. Best of all, it's FREE! This guide is not intended to assist the uninitiated. However, it is aimed at users already familiar with Unix/Linux systems.

Supplies:

First, we need hardware. At least two computers, both equipped with ethernet network interface cards (NIC's), are needed, and I also recommend the use of a network hub as well. These hubs will provide a central point of connection for all your machines. For beginners, I recommend a 5 port hub. Next is cabling. I recommend the use of category 5 ethernet cable (CAT5 cabling), which look like large, thick phone wires with six pin connectors, instead of your classic phone wires' four. All of these items are easily found in most computer stores today, and even in some game shops. Personally, I find that Linksys has inexpensive NICs that work well with the common tulip linux driver. 3Com NICs also, are all highly reliable cards and they are mostly all supported by the linux kernel. Both companies also make hubs and the other equipment necessary for home networking. Netgear also deserves honorable mention as a networking hardware vendor. If your NIC is not one of these, it may still be supported. Contact your card's vendor, or search the internet for information regarding linux support for your card.

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