How/why to transform a Linux server into a router

Most IT managers think that the router price is too high. In this Guide, Harrison explains why Linux can reduce router costs and how to achieve this.

Edit Note: Most IT managers think that the router price is too high. This is a situation that Peter Harrison discovered when studying a new book "Linux Quick Fix Notebook" published by Prentice Hall PTR. In this Guide, Harrison explains why Linux can reduce router costs and how to achieve this.

The cost of the router continues to decrease. However, in many cases, the price of the router is not as low as that of the financial department, it is easy to approve the purchase. In many cases, Linux routers may be ideal:

· If a vro is used for a proof-of-concept project, the high cost is a daunting factor. IT managers can consider changing an idle, perhaps outdated server to a Linux-based router.

· In some cases, the purchase of a router is budgeted. However, the staff needed a cheap router for testing. They can use a Linux router to familiarize themselves with the network before the formal training and expected arrival of the device.

· When the budget is tight, not all devices are included in the maintenance contract. If a department Router does not have technical support, or you have postponed the re-signing of the maintenance contract, or the hiring of contractors or the delay in paying for the replacement of the product, the Linux router is a good choice.

· In some countries, special vrouters may not be available. Expensive routers may be unacceptable or lack local sales and technical support representatives. In this case, a cheap Linux server-based Router is a feasible option.

The previous example shows that a Linux-based Router should be the last choice. This is not the case. If the configuration and plan are correct, the Linux-based server can become a real competitor of many small office and department routers. A gb-level server processor, a large amount of memory, and high-speed hard drives can be purchased at a very low price. The performance of a Linux-based Router when performing some common tasks can exceed that of a dedicated router. In fact, the US LinuxWorld Conference twice a year often shows Linux routing devices. Professional router manufacturers have recognized this threat and are providing a multi-functional integrated device. These features include routing, switching, firewall, VPN, and VOIP services.

The Linux Quagga application is an appropriate example. This application provides independent daemon that can run active routing protocols such as RIP, OSPF, and BGP. Each daemon monitors its own special TCP port for remote logon. Once you log on, the remote logon command line begins to simulate a Cisco router. OSPF processes only allow OSPF commands. Commands will take effect immediately and are permanently stored in the "/etc" directory using familiar Cisco memory write commands. These materials are interesting for technicians and open-minded materials for managers.

A vro usually requires a variety of interfaces from which communication passes. High-speed Ethernet Linux NICs are very cheap. Do not worry if you do not have such a network card on your hand. All the latest Linux versions support 802.1q VLAN tagging (VLAN tag ).

Linux Kernel is not required to reduce the trouble. Optimize the Linux system to support only basic system operations. Network functions speed up, but it takes time to determine unexpected Coupling Relationships and optimization. If you have time, give it a try and support the staff.

When a simple Linux-based fixed router is sufficient, do not use Quagga. VLAN tagging is required only when interfaces for multiple networks are insufficient. Kernel adjustment is beyond the experience of many IT personnel. However, the above three factors should be considered when evaluating your own Linux router.