Converting spare box into a Firewall???

[FarFrumLEET]

I got my hands on a old dell box and was wondering how to convert it to an effective firewall. Right now im running 5 systems through a wireless router and zone alarm on each system. But since zone alarm is installed, I can't use the network features in windows (ie share printer). The spare box allready has 2 network cards. So what should I do? How do I send the connection from the cable modem to the dell then to the router? NOTE: I dont know much about networking. THANKS

[Kwitko]

Get SmoothWall (http://smoothwall.org/). It's easy to install and doesn't need much in the way of hardware. Alternately, you could install Coyote Linux (http://www.coyotelinux.com/), which can be installed from a floppy.

[primesuspect]

TheSMJ is about to write a fantastic guide on how to convert an old box into a smoothwall firewall that also folds in it's spare time :)

TheSMJ, where are you? :D

[Clutch]

TheSMJ is about to write a fantastic guide on how to convert an old box into a smoothwall firewall that also folds in it's spare time :)

TheSMJ, where are you? :D

What more can we ask for :celebrate This is going to be on my top list to read for sure.

[entropy]

is this necessary or even useful if your router has a built-in firewall?

[FormFactor]

I would go with Kwitko's suggestion and use smoothwall. It is a VERY functional firewall with everything from forwarding to sniffing. Excellent free solution.