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The LAN... it draws ever closer.
So we've realized that, well, most of the problems that happen during the LAN, especially on the PC side, are stemming from poor preparation and configuration. This is partly our fault because not everyone's a computer/networking expert. So, to try to minimalize problems, I've decided to write a tutorial on getting all of the necessary games and configuring your computer so that you can come in, hook up, and frag.
Our Setup
Before we get into the actual configuration of your computer, I'll give you a rundown of what we're running, so that you know what's going on server-side: everyone is grouped into groups of four tables, each with it's own 8-port switch. That means that we can have seven wired users, and one wireless user at each set. Each table switch then runs on a 50-foot Cat6 line to our main switch, which is a managed Gigabit smart switch. All of the servers plug directly into that.
Now, at this point, we've got a DHCP and DNS server to make everyone's life easier. DHCP will give you an IP address, and DNS will handle hostname lookup, for better connectivity.
As far as networks go, this is a pretty simple setup. Server to switch to switch to client. What does that mean? If you're having problems connecting, it's definitely not our fault. So, to avoid problems, let's start with configuration.
Configuration
Note: To avoid problems and time-wasting, all of the following procedures should be performed before you come to the LAN!
Your Firewall
Contrary to popular belief, firewalls, Windows and third-party alike, are absolutely useless in a LAN environment. Not only useless, but also the number one cause of connectivity problems. some firewalls can even prevent the DHCP server from giving you an IP which, obviously, is a serious problem. My suggestion is to simply take down your firewall to prevent issues, at least until you can connect.
Network Settings
This was another big problem at the last LAN. People simply didn't have their network settings configured correctly. So, here's a quick rundown: Step 1: disable all other network connections except for the one you are using for the LAN. So, if you're going to have an ethernet cable plugged into the back, disable and virtual adapters, TUN/TAP adapters, 1394 connections, and wireless adapters. Or, if you're going to be wireless, disable your local area connection, and all other connections you might have.
To do this in XP, simply go to Control Panel > Network Connections, and right click each connection icon to select "Disable" from the menu. In Vista, open the start menu and type "ncpa.cpl" in the search box, and do the steps above. And if you're in Linux, please for love of god just boot into windows because it just causes problems.
Note: Do not close the network connections window.
Next, we're going to set your computer to obtain an IP address automatically. To do this, right-click on the connection hat you did not disable (either Local Area Connection or Wireless Connection), and select Properties from the menu. A properties sheet should come up, and a white box should list the various protocols, such as "Clent for Microsoft Networks", and "QoS Packet Scheduler". Scroll to the bottom of the list, and click on Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). Click the properties button below the list. This will bring up a configuration sheet. Now make sure that both sets of radio buttons are set to "Obtain an IP/DNS address automatically". Click OK at the bottom of the window and you are now set for DHCP.
Workgroup
Next, we're going to change your Workgroup name to LAN. Before we do this, however, please be sure to un-share anything that you think would be inappropriate or that you do not want other people to see. Keep in mind that if anything offensive or pornographic is freely accessible over the network on your computer, you may be escorted from the event, depending on the content's severity.
To change the computer's workgroup in XP, you are going to right-click My Computer, and select Properties from the list. In the Computer Name tab, click the "Change..." button near the bottom of the window. In the very bottom textbox, make sure that the workgroup name reads LAN. This will allow you to access resources on the network when you connect, including game servers. After changing this setting, allow Windows to reboot your computer.
Note: We would also advise you to change your computer name and description to something like your firstinitiallastname (for me it would be eabruzzese), so we know who is where.
That's everything for network configuration, so on to the fun stuff: games!
Getting the Games
Now, obviously, we can't give you all of the games we play due to copyright infringement etc, but we are permitted to give you a few of them, such as XTCS, Quake 2 and 3. Others you may have to... buy... elsewhere. Below are the links for said games. I would suggest that even if you already have them to download these latest versions to avoid problems later. If the download is crossed out, I haven't gotten around to uploading it yet.
Quake 2: Download | Mirror
Quake 3: Download | Mirror
XTCS: Download | Mirror
The only one of these that requres an install is XTCS. The others only require you to extract to a folder and run their respective programs.
That's it!
If you've followed this guide correctly, you will have no problems connecting, and the next LAN will be baby's-ass smooth for you. Then you can help your illiterate friends :). Thanks for reading our setup guide!
Eric Abruzzese & The BurningLAN Staff
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