25
Using NetworkManager
NetworkManager is the ideal solution for laptops and other portable computers. It
supports state-of-the-art encryption types and standards for network connections, includ-
ing connections to 802.1X protected networks. 802.1X is the “IEEE Standard for Local
and Metropolitan Area Networks—Port-Based Network Access Control”. With Net-
workManager, you need not worry about conguring network interfaces and switching
between wired or wireless networks when you are moving. NetworkManager can auto-
matically connect to known wireless networks or manage several network connections
in parallel—the fastest connection is then used as default. Furthermore, you can manu-
ally switch between available networks and manage your network connection using an
icon in the system tray or in the top bar, respectively.
Instead of only one connection being active, multiple connections may be active at
once. This enables you to unplug your laptop from an Ethernet and remain connected
via a wireless connection.
25.1 Use Cases for NetworkManager
NetworkManager provides a sophisticated and intuitive user interface, which enables
users to easily switch their network environment. However, NetworkManager is not a
suitable solution in the following cases:
• Your computer provides network services for other computers in your network, for
example, it is a DHCP or DNS server.
• Your computer is a Xen server or your system is a virtual system inside Xen.
Using NetworkManager 449
