| Connecting to the Internet requires that either a modem (dial-up) or an Ethernet port is installed in your computer. In addition, a broadband connection requires additional hardware. Modem: All computers sold in the last few years include a 56K modem. Most hardware modems are detected by Linux. You can check the Web site for your distribution to be sure your modem is supported. Software modems, also called Winmodems, require Linux drivers to work. Winmodems are becoming more and more popular with computer manufacturers because they cost less. Newer laptops usually come with Winmodems. More and more modem vendors are providing Linux drivers. Also, projects developing Linux drivers are making progress. As time moves along, Winmodems will become less of a problem. At the present time, your life will be simpler if you don't have a Winmodem. Information on using Winmodems with Linux is available at linmodems.org and at walbran.org/sean/linux/linmodem-howto.html. Ethernet port: Your computer may or may not include an Ethernet port, either on a separate card (network interface card [NIC]) or built in to the motherboard. To use a broadband connection, you need an Ethernet port. Many broadband service providers, such as cable companies, install a NIC if it's needed as part of the broadband setup. Linux can detect the port. Check the Web site for your Linux distribution to be sure your NIC is supported. Broadband hardware: Broadband connections require hardware between your computer and the broadband source. Each type requires a different setup. Cable modem: The cable modem signal is transported on the cable that brings in your cable TV signal. A cable modem, not a phone modem, is connected to your Ethernet port and to the cable to translate the signal. DSL: A DSL modem, provided by your DSL provider, is connected to your Ethernet port and to your phone line. It is not a phone modem. Wireless: Wireless service requires a hardware unit that includes the electronics and antenna for receiving and transmitting the wireless signals, usually installed outside. A cable runs from the unit to your Ethernet port.
After you have the required hardware, you need to set up your network connection, providing some information. For instance, for a dial-up connection, you provide the phone number. The information needed is provided by your service provider. Most Linux distributions include a GUI utility for setting up network connections. |
