I have set up a external serial modem and it works perfectly. However, when I try to set up a network with my XP box I can no longer communicate with the modem. I can dial out and establish the connection but when I try to browse the web or get mail I get "cannot connect to server".
I have had this problem with two Linux distros now and have not been able to come up with a solution in a couple of forums. I would like to share this connection and set up a file and print server but its impossible with this conflict.
I would greatly appreciate any guidence on this matter.

Thanks, eriefisher.

Sounds like a routing problem to me. Also if you are using ubuntu you need to check your firewall settings. By default in my experience it won't forward packets between two network devices (which is what you need to share a connection). What you are trying to set up is a little complicated and if you are not familiar with routing I suggest reading some networking howtos.

The first thing I need is to stop eth0 from blocking communication to my modem. Only after that will I try to go any further. As long as I disable eth0 my connection is stable. Any suggestions?

eriefisher