Re: home network
Check out the net-3 howto.
You'll want to get a hub. I believe that the difference between a hub and switch
is that (assuming both are 100Mbps), the hub can allow a maximum of 100Mbps of
traffic (so two machines trying to transfer files from a server would get 50Mbps
at most), and a switch allows 100Mbps per connection. Switches are also more
expensive. Hubs are the better option for a typical low-traffic home setup.
For the hub, it probably won't matter what brand you get. There are some that
are better than others, but unless you care whether a packet takes 3ms or 2.8ms
to transfer, it won't matter much (I say go for a low price).
For the NICs you'll want to make sure you get models that support Linux. I run
realteks and a 3Com 3c905-B (but I've heard of problems with the 905-C).
You could run a box with lots of ip masquerading to emulate a hub, but that's
like swatting flies with a hammer. Just get a hub. It's cheaper, uses less
power, and allows your boxes to see each other more easily.
On Tue, Mar 27, 2001 at 06:32:53PM -0500, D-Man scribbled...
>
> I am planning on building an ethernet netowrk at home. What do I need
> to do it (other than NICs and cable, of course)? What is the
> difference between a hub and switch? Any recommended brands/models?
> Do I really need a hub/switch or can I use an old box with a lot of
> NICs instead? Is there anywhere I can RTFM all of this?
>
> Thanks,
> -D
>
>
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