After you decide how your machine fits into the network, you
need to install and configure the appropriate protocol packages
as described in
Chapter 1, ``Configuring network connections'' in Configuring Network Connections.
You also need to update the networking files on other machines so that
they know of the new machine's existence. This configuration ensures,
among other things, that:
all machines on the network know each other's names and addresses.
individual users will have access to files and accounts on various
machines.
electronic mail is routed correctly.
the network runs at peak efficiency.
Common tasks that you will perform to ensure these goals include:
installing and maintaining networking hardware and software.
assigning names and addresses to each computer and device on the network.
assigning names and identification numbers (IDs) to network
users and groups.
performing the commands required to share, remove, and restrict
resources.
updating all appropriate networking files on your network's machines.
troubleshooting network activity.
performance tuning; see
``About this book'' in the Performance Guide.