>  Why does Microsoft use a different set of numbers for its LAN?
> M$ uses 169.254.0.0 with a 255.254.0.0 mask

RG> Because that is the address block assigned by IANA (Internet
Assigned
RG> Numbers Authority) for
RG> Automatic Private IP Addressing

> and Linux uses three others.

RG> Specifically,
RG> 10.0.0.0 - 10.255.255.255
RG> 172.16.0.0 - 172.31.255.255
RG> 192.168.0.0 - 192.168.255.255

RG> Which are also assigned by IANA for manually implemented private
RG> addresses. 

 I'm tempted to try and write the question totally unambiguously, but
you won't give a straight answer and life is too short.

RG> As to WHY these specific address blocks were assigned I really
RG> couldn't say, but in regards to what private network uses what
RG> particular set(s) is pretty much an arbiary choice by the
RG> network admin. 

 Terrific! You answered everything but what I wanted to know.

 God, you're a a stupid turd, Rod!

Regards,
Bob

--- BQWK Alpha 0.5