Home Network Hardware

[kulmsr]

I currently have a simple home wired network set up using a Router. I have 2 pc with wired connections and my laptop using wireless. What I want to do is take an old Machine and create a server for file sharing and internet sharing.

My question is, do I need a second nic in my 'server'? I intend to have my internet modem hook directly to the server and then have the server go out to my router. I am 90% sure I do, but haven't found anything telling me I do.

TIA
Kev.

[gunrunnerjohn]

Is that a point to bypassing the router? I think I'd just connect the server on the network and use it that way. I see no advantage to what you're suggesting, but a lot of disadvantages.

[mojo]

You would need a second nic to do that, but it makes far more sense to just hook up the server as another client connected to your router.

[kulmsr]

Is that a point to bypassing the router? I think I'd just connect the server on the network and use it that way. I see no advantage to what you're suggesting, but a lot of disadvantages.

Let me add here that when it comes to networks, I know just enough to get myself in trouble.

What would be the disadvantages to this set up? In my mind, I'd think I would have more control over access to files and internet access.

[Lespaul20]

To me is sound like you would be taking functions your router is capable of and using a PC.

My suggestion if to set up shared folder/drive on the "server". You can assign permissions in the share limiting who can get on and such.
I think, at least on my Linksys, you can limit internet access of specific computer via the router.

[glc]

Keep it simple - use your existing router for everything and connect your fileserver as simply another client. Use a professional OS on the fileserver such as Win2K Pro or XP Pro - or possibly Linux - and use its builtin security features. I'm using a Linux box on my Linksys router for exactly that, and I have several small business customers using Win2K Pro for that purpose too. You don't need a server OS with less than 10 clients, 2K or XP Pro will work fine in workgroup mode, no need to deal with a domain.

[gunrunnerjohn]

What they said. :D

The router is good at dishing out DHCP addresses and providing the connection. Why have a machine that has to be working properly AND the router both in the mix? If you're looking for reliability, that's the the configuration I'd pick. The only reason for sticking a computer in front is if you want to do filtering of sites and managing connections beyond the router's limitations, but I doubt that's the case here.