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[LUG] Clusters, Servers, Networks

 

Hi

As all who were there yesterday will testify I thought building a
cluster might help me in my goal of providing a network of computers
for Lostwithiel youth and adults.

I have 20 off p3's 700mhz. I assumed that if we linked 10 together in
a cluster we would have a super-computer that we could run a network
off. i.e. the cluster would be a server to lend power to the other 10
in the network. I didn't fully appreciate what a cluster was.

So the first question is what is a cluster? What is the point to it
and why isn't it a server like I wanted?

But it now moves on to the youth club needs. Tom Brough has answered
some of my questions in another email but suffice to say what I would
like to do is to run 10 computers through a server. The computers
would have ordinary functions, email, web browse, office, etc but
would also be able to run Doom or another network game. The server is
built to protect the kids from the internet, i.e. a net nanny and also
to run as a print server (we only have one). It would also run as a
games server.

Tom has already offered to bring a few more computers around and so I
propose another early/mid December date with some additional ideas.

In yesterdays meeting John and Claire turned up in order to learn some
stuff so I propose we have a corner that will achieve three things:
1. Install some Linux distro
2. Teach basic Linux maintenance (both command line and gui driven)
3. Teach some more intimate Linux stuff such as run levels (ideas please)

In another corner we build a server that will provide print server and
net nanny space. It would be good if we could also set-up a web
server. With a suitable router demonstrate port forwarding for those
that want to know.

And in the third corner we have pre-installed Linux boxes set-up and
ready to run Doom etc. The guys in this third corner would do the
setting up of the boxes. Basically connect keyboards, mice, monitors
etc. If the distro still needs installing to do so and connect them to
the internet. Check all is functioning, etc.

All the above would run over 2/3 hours from 12 midday. At three
o'clock we will get together for the final part of the day which will
be to install Doom and configure all the computers to run the game
together so we can have one big shoot-up!

Times might need adjusting but I will ensure we have the hall for 12
til 5 this time and that refreshments will be available.

What do you think please?
-- 
Kind regards
Rich
http://www.cregy.co.uk
Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.
Romans 12 v 1

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