[Sussex] Idea's and suggestions ?????

[john]

Evening All,

I'm currently using an Alcatel speedtouch usb modem to dual boot XP and
mandrake 9.0.

As a Linux novice/nugget/M$ refusenik (delete as appropriate) I am getting a
few problems with the "speedtouch". Under wind0w$, the modem performs
excellently, under mandrake (which I would like to be able to leave "always
on"), I am trying to set up some sort of firewalling, which is proving to be
a pain, because:-

a. I know little to nothing about firewalls

b. I have absolutely no idea as to which processes that I should allow
access to (for general surfing, e-mail, etc)

c. To prevent the mandrake/opera refusing me access to the net

d. To stop the mandrake telling me SIOCDLERT
/usr/share/speedtouch/speedtouch.sh line 150 command $RETURNED=0 command not
found (which despite trying mandrakeexpert, has proved an elusive problem to
solve and currently requires me to re-install the OS to cure, when I've made
a balls up of something)

If I try to use the "shorewall" firewall software, which currently appears
to be the mandrake default, I am getting stuck/over my head as far as
configuration is concerned - and thus far have ended up with the warning in
point "d"

If I try "firestarter", I get an unsatisfied dependency from mandrake 9.0
not having GTK2

If I try "guarddog" I can get it installed etc, but get bogged down on the
configuration

So, after a little digging, it would appear the options are for me to
replace the "speedtouch" with a modem/modem-router device that handles the
connection and firewall without having to rely on installed software, but
also makes me less OS dependent but retains the Linux/wind0w$ support for
maximum flexibility ("er in door's won't use anything other than wind0w$ due
to complexity/compatibility with the "stuff" at work).

David C suggested looking into PCI adsl modem's and having read the reviews
at Dabs, for the "Dabs value/conexant" PCI adsl modem, and checking out the
options at adslguide.org.uk I am still in the dark at to which route to
take. There is also an option for a "draytek vigor 2200 usb", which in
theory would do the trick as it should just plug straight in between the
speedtouch and PC (after plugging a NIC card in) and has support, but that
would still rely on USB.

Idea's and suggestions gratefully received (oh and sorry if this seems a bit
"mammoth")

regards

John D :{