We are building experimental network for our university with as small costs as possible. We are thinking about utilizing these really small linux computers like Picotux as extenders.

Plan is to have one central computer that takes care of connecting to internet with DSL and all these small computers will act as extenders so that our wifi network will have as large coverage as possible.

But we don't have much experience with linux so is it even possible to pull off? And what do we need for those small linux computers to work as "extenders"? I have never setup wifi extender in Linux so I'm really lost with that.

Also as you probably know Picotux doesn't have any kind of 802.11 so all suggestions about ready-made small linux computers with 802.11 are very much appreciated =) In theory we could ask our electronics students to make us computers if somebody can give us all the needed components & needed schematics.

We would really love & appreciate all input & ideas you can spare. As you probably noticed, we are trying to do something we don't have much knowledge about so it's very interesting challenge for us =)

Hopefully this project will work and as many people as possible could enjoy internet without having to pay for wifi access to greedy companies.

You must consider following:
1. Add wifi support to your Linux kernel.
2. Download appropriate driver if not yet supported by kernel.
3. check if the device is detected (lshal,dmesg etc can be used)
4. configure your wifi
http://linux.about.com/od/commands/l...l8_iwconfi.htm
http://wirelessdefence.org/Contents/...ssCommands.htm

Best of luck !