Linux and fiber optics?
 

Just a few simple questions. A while ago I installed Redhat 7.3, onto a ride next to Windows 98 [dual booted]. Because I have dial-up, I was never able to connect Redhat to the internet. [I believe it was because I have a "WinModem"] So I stopped bothering. [Didn't even try to buy a new modem.]

Anyway, I'm going to be moving in about 3-4 months, into a town house type thing. They have free internet, and I asked them what they use and they said Fiber Optics. I had never heard of the term before, but I did a little research and I was happy to hear that this will be extremely faster than dial-up anyway.

What is the process like for getting Fiber Optics to work on linux? Has anyone had experience with this at all, and got it to work? Will it even work period? Also, will I have to get a new hardware device on my computer? [I'm assuming when I start using fiber optics, I am going to have to install a new plug right?]

If anyone could clear some things up for me, it would be greatly appreciated.

Generally speaking, a fiber connection (for home use, FTTH -- fiber to the home) uses a device that translates between fiber and ethernet, similar to a cable or dsl modem. The configuration will likely be the same, requiring either a DHCP or PPPoE client to use.

Hi and welcome to LQ.

Fiberoptics is just a network using fibres that can transfer huge amounts of data with the speed of light. This has no influence on your personal computer. The fiberoptics is connected to a converter that uses ordinary copperbased ethernet, this kind of net usually has a limit @ 1Gbps, and maybe if you own an older pc it has a nic that can do 100 Mbps. So no matter what type of technology they use on the other side, it will be adaptable to your pc.

The short answer: Go ahead and connect you pc using Linux offcourse, the setup procedure is straightforward. Either you must use DHCP, or specify you settings like IP, DNS & Gateway.

Who is your ISP?

Good luck and have fun :)