gotrootdude:

Thanks...hopefully I'll start my little project in the next weekend or so...I may have to take you up on your offer :-)

Stu,

Thanks.  I did some further reading (RTFM) and you're right, I can keep a router between it and the cable modem as long as I assign DHCP server duties to the LinuxMCE.  You're also right that it seems Ubuntu specifically, Linux generally is magnitudes safer than a windows box.  I can't believe that it's safe enough to not need a firewall but that's what I've been able to find on the internet - Ubuntu's default installation closes all ports and doesn't need a firewall....Wow!

Again, thanks for the reply.

Jerry

This seems like the perfect product for me to geek out on over the summer, but I have some security questions:

Bluetooth - what are the security arrangements for adding bluetooth devices?  What prevents my next door neighbor from accessing my system? How are devices added?

Core Security - if the LinuxMCE Core acts as the DHCP server/firewall and is connected directly to your cable modem, how secure is it?  I mean you're potentially putting a device that monitors your security video, makes calls, has access to every computer on the LAN and controls your house hold appliances right smack next to the internet.  If a hacker owns this box, it'd be a nightmare.  They could make it seem like your house was possessed (Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice)!  I'm too paranoid to not have a router or security gateway between the LinuxMCE and the internet.

Thanks in advance.