Linux Slip and Cisco 2524 router
 

I have a Cisco 2524 router that has 1 ethernet and 1 serial port. I want to know if it is possible to hook up a unix box to the serial port and how to go about it.

I thought maybe there might be a V.35 DTE card or something I could get for Linux.

Then I thought if it is serial I should be able to get a cable with a 25 Pin RS-232 and use SLIP

I don't know anything about SLIP but I think that is proably the best solution.

I realize this isn't something someone would normally do but it works perfect for my learning needs.

Just WHAT are you trying to learn or do?

If you are just trying to use the linux box to manage your router via the serial port, then use "minicom". That's what I use for talking to storage subsystems and switches and whatnot.

"man minicom" and "/usr/share/doc/minicom" should have all the info you need.

-K.

That isn't but but now that you say it I haven't tried that yet either. I want to learn more about the Cisco. I am in the process of taking the CCNA then I will be doing the CCNP. The flip side is I want to learn some of the legacy function of Unix that just don't get used much any more. (I don't think).

"serial line networking" is an absolute waste of your time... IMHO. Serial line terminals are not.

If you are studying Cisco routers and their configuration, then it sounds like you should take a look at using "minicom". The serial port on a router, as far as I know, is set up for a terminal connection... not a networking connection. There is a difference, and I can see absolutely no reason a Cisco router would even have the capability included to do so... but I could be wrong.

-K.

I took the CCNA course (and passed) in May. The serial ports where basically used to either connect Cisco devices together, get a connection from the Telco, or a connection with Hyper Terminal (Windoze) via the serial line to config the router. This may or may not have been a question on the test. The pass rate for my week long intensive class was 3/12. Read Chapter 10 in the book. The serial line connection may be the only thing that the Telco will give you to connect to your Frame Relay / ISDN / ATM line. On the Cisco devices you config the serial the same way as the ethernet ports, which was really cool. Good luck on the exam.

At cisco it sais that this product 2524 have:
1 x Sync serial (V35 connector)
1 x BRi ISDN/E1(T1)
1 x Ethernet

V35 ports for PCs are expensive and maybe you'll find a 2509 or 2510 router to play with it for CCNA. Or use a router simulator ;)