The Everything Feed - All Packet Pushers Pods HN767: Effective Networking on the Cheap
Feb 7, 2025
Frank Seesink, a Senior Network Engineer at a major American university and a veteran in the Packet Pushers community, shares invaluable insights on budget-friendly networking. He discusses the advantages of free and open source tools and their trade-offs. The conversation explores the challenges of implementing automation on a tight budget, the impact of the digital divide, and the nuances of capital versus operational spending. Frank also emphasizes community engagement and effective resource allocation to empower underserved areas.
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Thinnet Troubles
- Frank Seesink recalls early networking challenges with thinnet cabling in offices.
- A common problem was finding crimped connectors caused by PCs pushed against walls, taking down the entire network.
From 300 Baud to 1200 Baud
- Frank Seesink recounts using a 300 baud acoustic coupler modem in his college dorm.
- He later upgraded to a 1200 baud modem and rigged his dorm room phone line for better connectivity.
VoIP for Family
- Frank Seesink shares how his focus on communication led him to set up VoIP for his wife and mother-in-law.
- This significantly reduced their international call costs and allowed them to communicate daily.