Hello, newbie here, need help configuring my network properties...

Hi, I'm completely new to the *nix scene, been using windows for 8 years, but recently decided to try Mandrake 9.1. So, I've installed it onto my old machine (specs to follow), but I have trouble getting onto the net. I dont know ANYTHING about how to configure it on a linux OS

linux system specs:
416mhz Celeron
320mb ram
nVidia TNT2 32mb
ENSONIQ PCI sound
DEC DE-500 NIC

main rig specs:
xp 2000+
Gigabyte GA-7VAXP
256mb ddr266
ATI Radeon 9000 PRO 128mb
using built-in sound card (AC'97)
using built-in NIC (Realtek 8139)
winxp pro SP1

internet:
3.1mbps/180kbps cable (static IP, but it changes about once a month)
Belkin router

Also, I've been wondering if I could share files between my main rig (winxp) and my linux rig?

P.S.
I go to another forum called Quake3World (I need 5 more posts in order to post URLs laff) so feel free to visit me there

Use the command "lsmod" to see what drivers are being loaded. With an intel NIC I expect it will be something like "e100" or "eepro100".

If the driver is loading you just need to configure the network settings. Is your Belkin box serving DHCP? If so, then just configure the card for that. Use the "Drakeconf" utility in Mandrake I think do to do that. I use Red Hat and its a little different.

-K

Ok, I've found out that the NIC is not an intel, but a "DEC DE-500", which might not be supported by this OS :/

I know nothing about the "DEC DE-500", but a quick Google search shows the de4x5 driver may be the right choice.
http://www.thonix.net/linux/kernel/nicdriver.php

Good Luck