debs, i lost the "lo" part of ifconfig, i.e., all i get is the "ppp0" part. (linux-wise, i'm trying to figure out what to do with a nic.) i suspect the prob is causing the obsfucation of my print jobs, seeking a network environment when probably i have nothing even close. please un-dense me. ...suggestions? ia, t. bentley taylor. (potato on 2.2.16) //