[NEWBIE] Running DNS server off cablemodem

[Harold Pritchett]

Chris Adams wrote:
> 
> I'm interested in running a DNS server on a FreeBSD box which is
> connected to a cablemodem.  I already have a domain registered but I'd
> like to host it on my FreeBSD box so that I can learn DNS and maybe
> host my own e-mail server and ftp server with the new domain.  @Home
> is pretty anal when it comes to people running servers, so I can't go
> to them for any help.

You'd better read your TOS agreement.  If @home finds you are running a
server they can discontinue your service.  Currently, they're pretty
lenient, but the agreement is in place to prevent anyone from running
the next ebay on one of their cable connections.
 
> What I need to know is, what setup do I need to run my own DNS server
> (besides bind)?

As to software, you only need bind.  What you need, is a subnet to go
with your domain.  You just don't run a nameserver for a single address.

> For example, would I need to purchase another IP from
> @Home, then point the new domain to that?  Or could I use my current
> one?? 

You might be able to register your IP with the internic as the
primary nameserver for your domain.  You will have to have a
secondary as well.  @home sure isn't going to provide it.  Also,
most @home setups currently are using DHCP.  May use pseudo-static
addresses (you get the same address every time you get your
lease) but some @home providers are really providing dynamic
addresses.  Also, some of the providers who are providing static
addresses today may not be able to do so in the future when
they get over-subscribed.

> Also, would I be able to have reverse DNS capabilities, even
> though @Home will have the second (and my current) IP address I
> purchase from them in their DNS tables??

NO.  @Home owns the subnet.  They are authoritative for the reverse 
lookups, and couldn't delegate a single address to you even if they
were willing to (which they're not.)  Some DSL providers will 
provide you a fractional subnet.  The smalest I have seen is a /29
which provides for six machines, plust the network and broadcast
addresses.  The smallest which I suppose could be issued would be
a /30 which would only provide for two machines (plust the two
reserved addresses.)
> 
> If anyone can make sense on what I'm trying to say or knows what I'm
> trying to do with my current setup, I'd appreciate any feedback/info.
> 
> Thanks in advance,
> Chris
> --
> 
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