Obtain the IPCop PC. Check the IPCop Hardware Compatibility List to verify the PC you are planning to use will support IPCop.
Insert any additional network cards needed to handle your configuration in the IPCop PC. You will need an Ethernet NIC for the GREEN interface. If you decide on a BLUE or ORANGE interface, you will need an extra NIC for each. If your RED interface is via Ethernet you will need one Ethernet NIC for this network, as well.
Insert the ISDN modem card, if needed.
During the installation process a video monitor will need to be attached to the IPCop PC. IPCop stays in character mode, so almost any monitor will do. The monitor can be removed after the install. In addition, a keyboard will be needed. If your BIOS keyboard test can be disabled, the keyboard can also be removed after the installation.
Set the BIOS parameters so that the target machine will operate, as much as possible, as a stand-alone server. For example:
Turn off the CPU power saver feature; the target computer must wake on all network activity on all NICs and/or modems. It's usually easier and safer to just turn off the power saver features. You can leave the video power saver turned on.
Set the BIOS to boot on power up.
Turn off the BIOS keyboard test, if possible.
Set the power state to “Always restore power after power failure”. This will guarantee your IPCop PC will power up and reboot after power is restored.
IPCop can backup your configuration to a floppy disk drive or a usb key, or to a file loaded through the web interface. It is not uncommon for the floppy to be accidentally left in the floppy drive. In case of power failure, this may stop the IPCop machine from booting.
If you are installing from CD drive, make sure your system will only boot from the CD drive and hard drive. Turn off all types of boot, except your hard drive after installation completes.
If you are installing from usb key, you may need to set some bios options. Turn off all types of boot, except your hard drive after installation completes.