Um...it's like this... It's fixed, but I don't see the connection between solution and problem. I get my hostname from DHCP. I put in the name that my computer is always assigned by DHCP from NTL broadband into /etc/hosts. Luckily I am always assigned the same IP (so that's fixed information too)! Surely there's another way? Isn't there some doohicky that adds this data each boot? What if my IP changed each boot? AND what on earth does this have to do with GDM not working, and why did KDM work all the way through? Someone please muster an explanation. I'm glad it works, but I'm trying to learn about how this all slots together. Obviously a big thanks for all those who offered advice. The localhost 127.0.0.1 contribution set me a thinking! -- Matt __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Yahoo! GeoCities - quick and easy web site hosting, just $8.95/month. http://geocities.yahoo.com/ps/info1