OK here is one for your all (it's been quite lately)
I have just reached (skiped) the NIS section of Linux, Network Administrator's Guide And I like it! NIS is what I have been looking for and I didn't even know it.
Currently i have only 2 computers connected to my LAN. with an ppp uplink. One system, Laurel (currently an cryix 166Mhz with 64MB, 20Gb HDD )is acting as my gateway for the other, Hardy. (AMD 750 256MB, 40Gb HDD)
I have 4 other Marines who use my computer (Hardy) for internet access and email Right now NIS ins not that big of a deal sence we only use Hardy.
Now when I get back to Sandiego,($HOME) my LAN will grow to 6 systems (maybe 7 if my wife gets me a laptop) and up to 10 users (LAN party!

) It would really suck having to set up all of those accounts on EACH computer. But you all allready knew that. So I'm planning on using NIS and Syimba (I have one windows box for my wife) to manage all of the users accounts.
What I'm looking for is; 1.) Can/sould my NIS server be the same as my Gateway? 2.) What kind of hardware should an small LAN use for an NIS server. 3.) For those who have used NIS what things should I look out for when configuring ,securing and manageing it?
I have read that there are different versions/flavors of NIS also. Which one would be the best and most secure?
And for you all that are going to harp on me for running Mandrake Linux, OK I know allready! I'm getting FreeBSD and Debin when I get back to the States. The network connection sucks out here!
Well thank you all for you help