Hi everyone! I'm totally new to Unix/Linux. In my last job I was able to be exposed a little bit by using unbuntu desktop for 11 months and also the xemacs editor. I basically know nothing and I'm totally interested in ditching the Microsoft Environment.
I would like to build a file server to store documents and pictures. Any suggestions would be helpful. I will be connecting at least two Windows laptops (sorry can't get two people to ditch it right now), and a hybrid laptop. We basically want to use this server to for storage and a gateway out to the Internet via a proxy I think to protect the three computers on the internal side of the network.
Currently we have a cable modem (Time Warner) and it is interfaced with a Linksys router and a desktop, and two laptops connect wirelessly through this. I'm assuming once I get the server up and running I can connect this to the Linksys router too, correct? I will still run antivirus on my machines behind the network if this is necessary. Do I even need the router once this is set up or can all three of my machines connect via the server via a proxy?
See, I'm lost! I'm excited to try this out though.
If anyone has any advice for me, documentation, information on securing and locking down my connections as much as possible, please let me know. Our email mainly is set up at gmail.com and time warner webmail. If there is anything here I need to know please share.
I'm open to all comments and I'm looking forward to switching environments as it seems that there are many advantages over the other environment.
Thanks everyone!