Redhat 5 as Router/Firewall

[bartsimsonii]

To make a very long story short I have been given the task to configure a redhat system as Router and Firewall.

I also have no experience with Linux whatsoever and am just getting used to using terminal etc.

In any case, I am having a frustratingly difficult time searching for some direct instructions on how to accomplish this task. Can anyone point me somewhere(a book or website) that has some clear instructions without perusing the history of the internet. Or can someone who has extensive experience possibly help me.(This task seems so simple so I assume someone with know-how could probably configure this quickly-Then again, Ive been wrong before)

I appreciate any help that anyone can give.

[LoStMaTt]

Why has Redhat been assigned for this purpose?

Is it possible to use a well developed, dedicated router/firewall linux system ?

There are plenty of distributions that will be much more effective for this purpose.

[YeOldeStonecat]

Why has Redhat been assigned for this purpose?

Is it possible to use a well developed, dedicated router/firewall linux system ?

There are plenty of distributions that will be much more effective for this purpose.

First thing that runs through my mind also....why risk not setting one up correctly, just get a pre-canned one that's got a lot more to offer, secure, more functional, easier to manage, the list of "pros" goes on and on....

[bartsimsonii]

Why has Redhat been assigned for this purpose?

Is it possible to use a well developed, dedicated router/firewall linux system ?

There are plenty of distributions that will be much more effective for this purpose.

TBH, I don't know. Bascally, when I came I was told this is what was needed to be done. It was a project that was half-done and then left alone. Then I came along and was asked to finish it.

I assume it was because of lack of knowledge or because the institution this server is apart of supports Redhat. (I really cant think of any other reason).

I could perhaps suggest another distro so do you have any in mind? Would it be more difficult to get this to work?

Edit: I also found out that it needs to be used as a file-sharing device(I dont know if that might change your line of thinking) something about Samba was mentioned....

[YeOldeStonecat]

IMO tis best to separate your firewall/edge appliances from your servers. I'd recommend a dedicated box to run something like Untangle, Endian, Smoothwall, m0n0wall, IPCop, PFSense, etc...on.

If you're forced to use the same box....look up ClarkConnect and eBox.