SpikiestDog2
10-12-2006, 12:25 AM
I have just been playing with M0n0wall, some free software you can download to turn a PC into a Router. First, all you need is a PC, any will work (I am using a P2 with 128MB memory, no hard drive, and 2 Ethernet cards). Second, download the free software (there are various versions depending on what media you want to use, I am using the CD version where the main files are on a CD-ROM and the custom config file goes on a floppy). Boot the computer from the CD go through the 2 set-up steps on the machine, then remove the keyboard and monitor and just leave your Ethernet cords and power hooked up and you will be good to go as far as hardware goes. Now, all the rest of the set-up is done through a browser window. This thing can do everything from performing the basic functions of a router, DHCP server, accepting the 5 major types of WAN connections, VPN settings, varying bandwidth allocations for various clients, and TONS more. Check it out, the review does not come close to doing it justice; I know you will like it.