Paul,
When you posted your reply, I was ready to post a - lengthy - reply. . . . However, I deleted it and waited a few days to read your post again.
Re-reading it today, it still infuriates me. I cannot imagine how - on a forum like this - you can come on with such an absolutely arrogant attitude toward me - and possibly others here on these fora as well.
You said:
I still expect that you will have a fundamental understanding of client/server application development before you see the ethernet shield as a necessary component. I expect you to have at least passing familiarity with doing the same stuff with a PC that you want to do with an Arduino with ethernet shield.
I do not cede you the right to expect, or demand, anything from me.
You said:
Asking for links to tutorials to show you how to use the ethernet shield is an admission that the basic understanding is missing.
Likewise, I do not cede you the right to place limits upon the questions I may pose.
( :shaking head in wonder: )
I cannot understand how you can equate "asking for help/tutorials" so that I can see how it is done with the Arduino, with lacking any understanding about computers, networking, the Internet, etc. etc. etc.
It is exactly this kind of arrogance that drives people away from these fora, and makes them think two or three times about making use of the resources available here. People don't come here to be spanked by the likes of you, they want help and encouragement. And I am glad to say that everyone else on this forum has provided exactly that. I have looked at code, seen how it is done, played with it, and had fun.
A request, if I may: (Quoting a sign I have over my desk)
Be nice, or go away.
What say ye?
Jim (JR)