steps to setup ethernet link on PC/RT requested

[Jon H. LaBadie]

We're new to AIX (not to UNIX) and babes in the woods where networking
is concerned.  We could use some serious hand-holding in setting up
the TCP/IP network on our systems.  It will be a VERY simple network!

We have 2 systems, model 125's running AIX 2.2.1.  The baseband adapters
and transceivers are installed and now it is time to proceed to network
administration.  Our goals include file and mail transfer; remote backup
of one system (only one has a tape drive); remote printing (yup, one
printer); and eventually, external communications via one system with
modems.

If someone has a blow by blow description of getting started, that would
be ideal.  Otherwise, perhaps a few clarifications would allow progress.

1. TCP/IP vs. Distributed Services
   I'm not sure how these tie together.  Seems that each has its own set
   of administrative requirements.

2. Addressing
   Node name - set via "uname -S", used only by uucp??
   Node id number - printed by "uname -a" and listed as the local
     "nickname" when entering "ndtable".  What is its use and how
     (or should) it be set.
   Internet address - big HUH?  Seems to be required at many points.
     But I have no plans to get onto any external Internet.  Is it
     still required?  How is it chosed/set?
   Domain name - same HUH? as Internet address.
   Hostname - seems to be set with "hostname".  Should this be the
     same as Node name?

3. Sendmail.cf and associated needs
   I think I have a minimum config established, but some assurances
   would be welcome.

4. NFS/YP software
   This has not been obtained.  Is it needed, would it be nice, for
   our basic requirements?

5. Cabling
   We have appropriate coax to connect the two systems.  It would
   mean routing the cable through the dropped ceiling between offices.
   An alternative (attractive physically and visually) is to use the
   already installed coax for our synchronous terminals.  Each office
   has a number of these going to a patch panel in the computer room.
   It would be simple to run coax to the wall plate, and jumper the
   two connections at the patch panel.  Is this a no-no because of
   the different types of coax cable?

I would appreciate any input you might have; posted or mailed.  I would
prefer mailings however as the propogation delay on new articles is
about 3 days to my site.  Mail is nearly immediate.

Thanks in advance,

Jon LaBadie,

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Jon LaBadie
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