Topic: Squid - Proxy and\or DNS questions

[Twiggabe]

Hey all,

  I have a couple questions about how others use Squid on their SME networks.

  Currently my setup is IPCOP for my router\firewall and SME for my file and print\squid proxy server.  I kept the squid off my IPCOP machine in order to keep the load low and shut off the service to make the router more secure(less services typically means less things to be exploited with an external device facing the Internet).

  I have a couple different questions about Squid proxying.  

1.  Is a squid proxy worth it if you only have roughly 4 machines on your internal network?
2.  Do other users on this forum use other DNS servers for their proxy other than those provided by their ISP?  Are there any advantage to this(privacy, etc...)?
3.  Do other users point their Squid proxy to another private proxy for getting their web pages?  What are the advantages/disadvantages with this(privacy, speed, etc...)

  So far I have to say that I'm very pleased with my Squid proxy, but I'm not sure if it's just because I have a set up that I'm proud of doing myself or if there are some real benefits I can glean from this service.


Thanks,

      Abe