SLED10 : Networking Changes

This document (3903428) is provided subject to the disclaimer at the end of this document.

Environment

SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 10

Situation

This document introduces additional networking options that are available in SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 10.

Resolution

With Linux (or Unix-based Operating Systems), the use of "ifconfig" has been extremely prevalent. SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 10 has added another option. Either option can be used, but not in conjunction with each other. The two options are the traditional ifconfig, or user-controlled using the NetworkManager. There are good points and bad points of each.

If the users of the workstation prefer using a set of tools in which each user can customize their own personal settings, the user-controlled option is the best.
If the user of the workstation has a strong familiarity with the traditional ifconfig interface, this may be the best option.

If the workstation is configured for user-controlled, and ifconfig commands are used, unexpected results can ensue. The NetworkManager can override ifconfig information.

Setting up networking for the traditional method of "ifconfig" :

Start YaST.
Click onto Network Devices.
Click onto Network Card.
Select "Traditional Method with ifup".
Click Next.
At the configuration overview, select the card to be configured, and press "Edit".
Alter any information required for the configuration.
Click Next.
Click Next.
Click Next.

Setting up networking for the user-controlled option :

Start YaST.
Click onto "Network Devices".
Click onto "Network Card".
Select "User Controlled with NetworkManager".
Click Next.
Click Next - this will close the YaST Network Card configuration window.
Close YaST.

If using a wired network, just connect the cable - the NetworkManager a pop up should shortly appear.
There is also another pop up when disconnecting the wired network.

If using a wireless connection, to complete it :

Left click on the icon in the task bar tray (see the additional notes section for icons and their meaning).
If the wireless networkislisted, click on that option, and the NetworkManager will connect you.
If the wireless network isnotlisted, Select "Connect to Other Wireless Network" and fill out the information required to connect to the network.

Additional Information

Networking Icons found in the task bar :

Obtaining a connection
No connection
Wired connection
Wireless connection

Disclaimer

This Support Knowledgebase provides a valuable tool for SUSE customers and parties interested in our products and solutions to acquire information, ideas and learn from one another. Materials are provided for informational, personal or non-commercial use within your organization and are presented "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND.