[NTLUG:Discuss] where do I put the mail agent/server?

[MadHat]

m m wrote:
> 
> Cameron and all:
> 
> As my understanding, if you put the www behind the firewall, the outside
> people may not be able to "see" you. and it will serve as intranet server.
> is it right?
> 

Sorry, this is not correct.  It is all about how you configure the
firewall. Depending on the situation, it is usually easier on a single
connection (DSL, cable modem, single IP type setup) to use the firewall
to handle all outside requests, redirecting the requests to the proper
machine behind the firewall.  This would also be more secure and easier
to keep an eye on.

Warning:  The ever popular Linux FW config site (where is that damn
URL....) will not configure your firewall this way.  (oh, here it is 
http://www.linux-firewall-tools.com/linux/firewall/index.html) 

It is designed for a home user in mind and the idea is that a home user
is more likely to have a small network where you want all the machines
to be able to get out (to the Internet), but do little to no hosting via
a connection like a modem, Cable or DSL.  That, and he can charge
companies for his expertise in building 'business' firewalls.

As for how it is done, that is going to depend on how many IPs you have
and how you want to set things up.  There are lots of options.

-- 
MadHat at unspecific.com
                                   "The 3 great virtues of a programmer:
                                      Laziness, Impatience, and Hubris."
                                                 --Larry Wall