Why cant I connect to the net?
 

HI, I installed linux mandrake 10 on my computer, but for some reason it isnt detecting my internet (i use cable). When I use XP it detects it and automatically configures it. What do you think the problem may be?

Well the first problem I see is you giving us no info what so ever to help you.
We would like to know
1) What kind of internet connection do you have? Cable, ADSL, dial-up?
2) Your exact hardware specs; so if you have a ethernet card you use to gain access to the net, who is the manufacturor of that specific hardware?
3) What have you alraigdy tried?

Well the first problem I see is you giving us no info what so ever to help you.
We would like to know
1) What kind of internet connection do you have? Cable, ADSL, dial-up?
2) Your exact hardware specs; so if you have a ethernet card you use to gain access to the net, who is the manufacturor of that specific hardware?
3) What have you alraigdy tried?

1) I said that I have cable

2) I use an ethernet card to access the net, the model is sis 900 based pci fast ethernet adapter. (it came with my computer). My computer is made by HP and its a pavillion 751n.

3) I have tried using the network setup but I dont know what to fill in and what not to fill in. Some of the things say optional and some of them are a little bit different from what I got in my ipconfig in windows.

Isnt there a way to make it autoconnect like windows? that would be alot easier then me manually entering the gateway and ip and stuff.

Thank you.

Lets start at the beginning.

Did Mandrake find your network card?

Mandrake is pretty good at detecting most hardware.

In Mandrake Control Center, go through the network wizard and make sure you select either dhcp or bootp. Though your system will be valnurable to attacks. I suggest...no forget that....I recommend buying a router for now until you are familar with Linux and firewalls. Though if your cable modem has only a USB port, get an ethernet version (RJ-45 connector) to make it easy to hook it up to the router. You will then have to reprogram the new cable modem so it can talk to your ISP's servers.

I'm with Electro go with a router. Even though you would probably get all the information that you need from your Winders box running 'ipconfig /all'.