[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
Hello:
I want to thank everyone for the responses to my last set of questions.
> I am going to build the network now.
Questions:
1. How does one connect a router/switch to the firewall computer which is
hooked
> up to the cable modem? Do I need a second network card?
It seems that any way you do it, you need at least two NIC's (or a NIC
and an Access Point card, in the case of using Wifi) in the firewall
computer if that is not to be the only computer on your LAN:
[Internet]<-->[Cable modem]<-->[Firewall]<-->[Other computers]
[A]nd if so what are the best recommendations for 1 gigabit card?
I use Intel PRO/1000 MT cards. They have a good reputation for
reliability, especially if you care about Jumbo Frames support.
2. What is the difference between a router and switch?
Others have given you a better explanations than can I.
> I am going to get a router or switch to hook up to the firewall
server and then
> the computers that will be part of the network will hook up to the
router/switch.
If you buy a typical consumer-grade router appliance, it will also
contain a switch. But it will also include a firewall that is more than
good enough for a home LAN, unless or until you want more capability and
control (with understanding) possible with a home-brew firewall.
But then, if you build your own firewall box, you may as well have it do
the necessary routing as well. In that case, you only need a switch, or
a handful of NIC's - one for each connecting box.
For a home brew (e.g. Shorewall, Monowall) box, you'll have a
firewall-router combination in terms of software. Add several NIC's in
the box and you can have a firewall-router-switch box.
If you buy an off-the-shelf firewall router, you also have all three
functions. These boxes usually come in either 4- or 8-port varieties at
a reasonable price. More ports can be had at considerably higher prices.
> Which would be better? And then of course which manufacturers should
I avoid and
> which ones are good?
Thanks,
Andrew
As already mentioned, you don't need a gigabit connection to the 10
megabit cable modem. If you get an appliance firewall/router(/switch)
and want gigabit speed, you're still fairly limited in selection.
Gigabit is just starting to get popular enough at the consumer level so
most popular vendors (Linksys, Netgear, D-link) are just now putting out
gigabit versions of their gear. Of course, they are also charging a
premium for that added capability.
If going the appliance route, you might find a good price point by
getting a 4-port 10/100 firewall/router and an 8-port switch. If so, I
am using the new Netgear GS108 gigabit switch (blue metal case) and so
far, can recommend it.
--
Best Regards,
~DJA.
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