3G Mobile Broadband on Fedora Core 10

Recently I decided to evaluate the latest release of Fedora Core. There is no doubt that Linux has improved exponentially as a desktop OS in the last few years, but I was really impressed with this release. The latest feature to really impress me is how easy they've made it to connect to the internet using a 3G mobile broadband connection.

I've been connecting to the internet using mobile phones (via bluetooth), and 3G cards for a few years now. I've never struggled too much, but I could understand why someone completely new to Linux would have had a hard time. Firstly, you always had to know what AT commands you needed to use as init strings for the modem. If your 3G connection was your only connection, this could have been a bit of a problem for you.

With Fedora Core 10, it's only a couple of clicks before you're connected and happily surfing the net.

1. 
   
   Right-Click the Gnome network-manager icon on your toolbar and select "Edit Connections..."
   



2. 
   
   Click on the "Mobile Broadband" tab and then the "Add" button.
   



3. 
   
   If your 3G USB modem is connected, it should pick it up for you. Click "OK" to continue.
   



4. 
   
   Enter a name for this connection and your APN (Access Point Name) and click "Apply".
   
   note:
   
   
   
   • If you are unsure what your APN is, contact your service provider; they will be able to tell you.
   
   
   • If your network requires a username/password, enter these values, my network does not require authentication.
   
   
   • If your SIM is secured by a PIN number, enter this as well.
   
   
   
   



5. 
   
   Left-click the network-manager icon again, and click on the connection you have just created.
   



6. 
   
   A second or 2 later, you should be in business.
   

Apparently Ubuntu Intrepid Ibex (8.10) has made this even easier, including a list of service providers to choose from and hot-plug support for the modem; never the less, I was impressed!