Configuring the Raspberry Pi ethernet port for remote control

it is a good idea to make a backup of the interfaces file if you are new to linux:
sudo cp /etc/network/interfaces /etc/network/interfaces.backup

Step 3: Modify the network settings

To edit the network setting you must edit the interfaces file.  The network can use a dynamic (DHCP) IP address or a static (set) IP address.  If you want to remotely login and control the Raspberry Pi, it is a good idea to use a static IP address.

The following command can be used to update the file:
sudo nano /etc/network/interfaces

Look for the eth0 line which corresponds to the Raspberry pi ethernet (RJ45) port.

edit the file to look similar to this:

iface eth0 inet static
address 192.100.1.102
netmask 255.255.255.0
gateway 192.100.1.1

Set the address to the IP address you want the Raspberry Pi to occupy.

Once the file has been updated, use ctrl x to save and exit.

Once the interfaces files has beed updated, you must restart the Raspberry Pi for the changes to take effect.

Used to following command to restart:

sudo shutdown -r now

Step 5: Test the new network setup

Use the “ping” command to confirm that the Raspberry Pi is on the network and talking to another computer also on the network.

If you have trouble pinging other computers on the network work, check the following:

1. Confirm that the ethernet cable is firmly connected to the Raspberry Pi and network switch.
2. Confirm that the ip address, mask and gateway are correct.
3. If pinging a Windows machine, sometimes security setting prevent responding to a ping request.