Re: Low end machines for Firewall/IDS

[stefmit <stefmit () starband net>]

For $200 you can build [almost entirely] new ones. Go to any computer show in 
your area, and you can pick up a mobo w/built-in AMD 1.2GHZ + case + 128MB 
RAM for approx $120-$140 (see http://www.pcchips.com.tw/M810Lv71c.html as an 
example of such mobo), then add a low end hard drive (even used one is OK in 
this case, instead of the whole system beind used) and a CD-ROM for a total 
of no more than $200. I have built a couple of systems for my kids this way, 
and I even got from the vendor 256MB, instead of 128MB, for only $15 more 
(because the built-in AGP card uses shared memory form the main RAM ... and I 
wanted a slot only occupied with 256MB, for future possible growth). And I am 
talking here gaming machines, with much more power needed than a firewall. 
And they are [almost] new ... :) ... and they come with integrated NIC also 
... 

You can also get a lower end "kit" (< 1GHz CPU) for good prices from 
www.tigerdirect.com. 

I like things cheap, but I also like them new ... especially as they come with 
some warranty :)

My $0.02,
Stef

On Friday 29 November 2002 09:01 pm, Jay D. Dyson wrote:
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> On Sat, 30 Nov 2002, ALBEE,RUSSELL. S FC2 (CV63 CS5) wrote:
> > Does anybody know of any good locations online to purchase old 486
> > machines or low end Pentium machines for use as a Firewall and/or IDS?
> > I've tried searching on google and just keeping getting links to Pentium
> > 4 computers.  I will be using either a Linux or BSD flavor on these
> > machines.
>
>       I'd say your best bet is to search on ebay.com.  I've personally
> managed to find some relatively older eMachines (533i and 600is models) on
> there at very reasonable prices (~$200, including shipping).  All machines
> I've purchased have been in fine working order and all now live happily
> running Linux as IDS, firewalls and -- on occasion -- full-fledged
> Xfree86-enabled workstations.
>
>       The only caveat: pay close attention to the seller's history and
> feedback.  A long list of happy buyers makes for a happier transaction in
> my book.
>
> - -Jay