  Network operation mode


  11..  PPuurrppoossee


  The network operation mode is selected either at boot time using
  askrunlevel (called automatically) or any time, using the "netconf
  --runlevel" command.

  Basically, _L_i_n_u_x can operate in three different modes, network-wise.


  +o  Standalone (local) mode.

     This mode is selected when no network adapter is installed. It
     might be selected to save on RAM used.

     This mode configures the loopback interface, allowing you to do
     minimal "local" networking (which is a good way to practice without
     bugging system administrators).

  +o  Client mode.

     In this mode, only the minimal daemons necessary to access the
     network are started. While minimal, the inetd daemon is activated,
     allowing your computer to provide some services, such as telnet.

  +o  Server mode.

     All daemons configured will be started.


  22..  SSwwiittcchhiinngg nneettwwoorrkk lleevveellss oonn tthhee ffllyy

  Your are allowed to switch the network operation mode on the fly using
  the following commands:


  +o  netconf --runlevel local

  +o  netconf --runlevel client

  +o  netconf --runlevel server

  In each case, it will make sure the proper daemons are running.

  The command


                       netconf --update


  may be also useful to make sure a system is current (in sync with its
  configuration). The command


                       netconf --status


  gives a report on what has to be done, while --update does it.

  The file /var/run/netconf.level stores the current operation mode and
  it is used by the --update and --status  options for netconf. This
  file is updated by "netconf --runlevel" and by /sbin/askrunlevel at
  boot time.