LAN Check List

[Jake Terry]

Hey guys,

To the moderator: if this is posted in the wrong section, please feel free to move it.

I'm setting up a small LAN party with a group of friends (about 7 or so) in two weeks. I would just like to double and tripple check that I have everything. If you notice anything on the list is missing, sucks, or isn't needed, please let me know. Or good brands that you have worked with...all advice is helpful.

Thanks!

1. D-Link router
2. 10 port switch
3. Network cables and cards
4. Extension cords


Of course tables and chairs, but that's too obvious. And I plan to download latest mods and patches for the game a day or two before the party.

So what am I missing?

[TeaLeaf]

Hi Jake, I'm afraid that's a very short question with a very long list of possible answers depending on how you detail your initial question!  For example, if you're planning to run all the game servers from your own client PC's then you'll not need a dedicated LAN game server.  Ignoring the blindingly obvious (like a table & chair!), for our own twice-yearly LAN parties (like this one) which typically cater for 30-40 people you need:

• dedicated game server
• gigabit switches
• network cable (we have our own supply but also suggest people bring their own 10m cable to ensure they can reach a switch to connect to the LAN)
• router/internet connection only if you need internet access for validation etc
• DHCP from the router for clients and that the clients are not static IP
• knowledge of the available client IP range being used (to avoid conflicts)
• servers set to static IP (many configs need a static ip) within the appropriate IP range
• clean, virus-free clients!
• duck tape to tape down cables running across walkways
• sufficient power distribution outlets and appropriate extensions

How you manage the game servers or feed people is up to you!

HTH, but keep in mind it is a short list of the key bits, running a good LAN take a lot more than just the above - just ask Ninja_Freak or BrotherTobious (our LAN Admins)!