Getting Started Guide
99
CHAPTER 7
Connecting to the
Internet
Many people use OpenLinux as an Internet workstation. Linux provides a fast,
inexpensive means of accessing the Web, FTP servers, email, and so forth. You
can run multiple connections at the same time and use powerful Internet-aware
applications. This chapter describes how to set up and use your Internet connec-
tion in OpenLinux.
NOTE: If you want to set up an Internet server running on
OpenLinux, see the section“Setting Up a Web Server” on
page 168 or “Setting Up an FTP Server” on page 169. The
information in this chapter is intended only to set up Internet
clients such as a Web browser.
Defining an Internet Connection
Most users connect to the Internet using a protocol named PPP. This type of con-
nection enables you to easily download files to your Linux computer and view
graphical documents such as Web pages.
NOTE: When you use special dial-up software from your
Internet Service Provider, you are still using PPP in most
cases, but the software hides the details.
In order to connect to the Internet using PPP, you must: