Since you're getting an ethernet handoff, and presumably you trust your upstream [contractual agreements and all that], it may be more convenient for them to allocate you a port on a cisco.. I doubt you would see collision problems. as far as security is concerned, how does running NAT on that interface sound? NAT's great if you are unsure of the number of hosts on your network, as private address space is [virtually] limitless.. you should also be able to redirect specific ports to servers on your network. -g

Re: ethernet handoff from ISP

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<<Don't use any routing protocol at all. Actually, skip having your >> <<own router too. >>

I am going to have to disagree with your statement. You are risking major problems without filtering their access. I wouldn't allow any outside company access to my networks without screening were they can go.

A firewall wasn't discussed, but I agree that one is recommended.

router != good firewall