Having gone through this decision myself, I think there are two distinctly different use cases represented: - us (linux junkies): we want to run a server and do other cool stuff, in which case running a linux firewall makes sense - them (our non-linux junkie friends/family): they won't be running servers or anything else. Running a linux box is overkill and more expensive (power, maintenance, noise, etc) than a dedicated firewall hardware devices.
The original poster (I think) was setting up something for his parents...who probably have little need to run a server or spoof AOL mail addresses. (just my 2 cents) Chris Greg Brown wrote:
I'd suggest just the opposite. I have a linux based edge device (router, iptables, blah) and it works great. Having this in places allows me to:
1. run iptables (which I really like as a firewall)
2. run a ssh server on the Internet side (most of the boxed edge routers can forward ports, but it's just not as fun)
3. run a wide open sendmail server which allows forwarding (of course only on the inside interface - can't have an open sendmail server on the Internet side). This was your parents can send mail that looks like it originates from AOL even though it might be coming from a different domain.
4. run a web server (if you care to)
There are other reasons why I like to have a edge linux device, but these are the ones that come to mind first. But it does add complexity but, on the flip side, I think it would make remote administration of the network a bit easier if you can ssh right into the edge router from anywhere on the Internet. And this can all run on a P-II system. It's quite possible you can get your hands on a P-II Dell for less than a broadband router.
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