JLab Computer Center Linux Services Home

What's New

25 July 2005

RHEL 3WS Update 5 is now available. This update includes all the latest patches, but is otherwise identical in functionality to previous RHEL 3WS builds. Older boot CDROMs are now obsolete. Please obtain a new CD from the helpdesk (or burn this image). See FAQ 1.11 for more information.

The Computer Center provides standard configurations and support for Linux systems running Red Hat Enterprise Linux 3WS, that conform to the guidelines described in the JLAB Guidelines for Stand-Alone, Multi-User Computers.

Choosing the Best Linux Configuration For Your Needs

The Computer Center offers two pre-tested and supported Linux configurations for general use. For those situations which don't quite fit our supported configurations, we also provide you with the ability to create your own custom standalone Linux system. For more information, check out our Linux System Types page.

Installing Linux on your machine

Once you have decided which system best fits your needs, visit our Linux Installation Instructions page to install your new operating system.

Configuring a Standalone System in the JLab Environment

Even if you're not using one our pre-configured builds, you can still integrate your machine with most of the Lab's services. Whether you're using a custom stand-alone RHEL workstation or you've brought your own favorite flavor, check out these pages for help on how to configure it in the Lab's environment.

Please Note: All computers attached to the JLab network are required to use appropriate warning banners at login time and to keep the system up to date with all relevant security patches and to provide an account for the Computer Center to monitor for signs of intrusion or compromise. Our Level 1 and Level 2 systems take care of all of these by default, but administrators of standalone Linux boxes should read this page for instructions on configuring these settings on their machines.

Policies and recommendations for standalone machines
Guidelines for evaluating which network services your machine needs
Configuring your wireless network card under Red Hat Linux
Connecting to the Windows Terminal Server
Joining our Linux administrators' mailing list
Managing patches for RHEL
NIS setup for Stand Alone and Level 2 machines.

Linux@JLab FAQ

For the answers to all the most common questions about using Linux at the Lab, check out our FAQ!

Red Hat Enterprise Linux Documentation

Red Hat provides extensive documentation for users, administrators and developers. To find more information about Red Hat Enterprise Linux, visit their Red Hat Enterprise Linux Manuals page, which offers over 20 different manuals online and in downloadable form, or jump directly to one of the following popular books:

Other Sources of Linux Information

Documentation on installing security patches for RedHat Linux 7.x, 8, and 9 systems. Please see the appropriate HowTo for using yum under your Linux version.
The Linux FAQ maintained by the Linux Documentation Project
Access to the electronic version of Linux Journal is available to JLab users.
Computer security information provided by CIAC, the Dept. of Energy's Computer Incident Advisory Capability.

I Didn't Find the Information I Needed!

Feel free to contact the helpdesk (Trailer City, accross from room 172, x7155) or file a Computer Center Problem Report (CCPR) if you need information that isn't listed here.

This document is maintained by {helpdesk@jlab.org}