Using NetworkManager

Contents

5.1. Use Cases for NetworkManager
5.2. Enabling NetworkManager
5.3. Configuring Network Connections
5.4. Using KNetworkManager
5.5. Using GNOME NetworkManager Applet
5.6. NetworkManager and VPN
5.7. NetworkManager and Security
5.8. Frequently Asked Questions
5.9. Troubleshooting
5.10. For More Information

NetworkManager is the ideal solution for laptops and other portable computers. It supports state-of-the-art encryption types and standards for network connections, including connections to 802.1x protected networks. With NetworkManager, you do not need to worry about configuring network interfaces and switching between wired or wireless networks when you are moving. NetworkManager can automatically connect to known wireless networks or manage several network connections in parallel—the fastest connection is then used as default. Furthermore, you can manually switch between available networks and manage your network connection using an applet in the system tray.

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.

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.

  • You want to use SCPM for network configuration management. To use SCPM and NetworkManager at the same time, disable the network resource in SCPM configuration.