Thank you very much for your answer, Ron.

So far I have avoided using TCP/IP in my network in order to increase security per Gibson Research (grc.com) recommendation, but there are too many reasons to go IP, and this is just one more, so I'll surrender.

What other recommendations can you make in this regard? I assume a good NIC on the server means 100mb ethernet, or is there something else ?

Do you have a specific switch recommendation? about 16 connections plus cable or DSL to Internet with a *good* firewall.

Appreciate your help.

Alex


I am currently using

>Definatly go with a switch not a hub.
>
>in a nutshell a switch will route to the IP address without broadcasting to all the other nodes. A hub will broadcast to everyone.
>
>Will alot of people be using the network?
>
>While you can get away with cheap NIC on the workstations spend the extra money on a good card for the server.
>
>Ron
>
>
>>Hi,
>>
>>I know the network hub is not exactly a VFP issue, but it does impact overall performace.
>>
>>I am planning to purchase a new hub and need to know how to evaluate them.
>>This is what I am currently looking for: 16-10/100 Ethernet ports; shared cable or DSL connection to ethernet with firewall. Problem is, I don't know enough as to what to look for or avoid.
>>
>>Any ideas ? Or, where can I get this info ?
>>
>>TIA
>>
>>Alex