Introduction

Linux's history of development over the internet and its strong networking orientation make it an ideal basis for developing networks for small to mid-sized business (SMB's).

PALDOM has experience in setting up and supporting both LAN and WAN networks.

WAN – Wide Area Networks

WAN's are networks that usually cover a wide geographic area and connect two or more LAN's together. Computers can be connected through WAN's using:

-The internet.

-Telephone Leased or Dial-up Lines.

-Satellites.

LAN – Local Area Networks

LAN networks connect an associated group of devices and computers usually located relatively close to each other, such as in a building or campus. These devices are usually supported by a server.

SMB Networks

Networks for SMB's can be setup using WAN technology between business locations and LAN technology within each location. Hardware and software are available to make the combined WAN-LAN network appear to operate as a single network.

A combination of workstations running different operating systems and workstations of various capabilities can all be combined to work together as if in a single network. Users in one location can share printers in other locations and all users can access a central server for data base and business application processing.

Introduction

A variety of hardware and software components are required to work together for efficient networking.

The following is a brief description of some of the major components:

• Internet. The largest WAN network connection.

• Leased Lines. High speed dedicated phone lines.

• Dial up Lines. Normal telephone lines.

• TCP/IP. Networking communication protocol.

• Ethernet. Network wired or wireless links.

• Routers. --Connect devices on a LAN and connect LANs over a WAN.

• Bridges. Connect two networks. and connect wireless access points.

• Switches. Breakout Ethernet connections to multiple computers or other network devices

• Firewalls. Hardware or software protection against unauthorized access to the network.

• Apache. Apache web server.

• SNORT. Intrusion detection software.

• VPN. Virtual Private Networking, allows two LAN's two behave as one when connected with VPN routers over the internet.

• SAMBA. Software that allows Linux and Windows computers to share printers and file space over a LAN.

• CSU/DSU. Devices that connect LAN's or other networked devices over a leased line.

• Multiplexor. Device to support serial (RS-232) terminals and printers over a leased line.