> another option is a Linux or even Windows install as the base OS, then 
> run m0n0 and AstLinux in two separate VMs. Now, *that* is ugly, but 
> technically, it works and uses only one machine :)
>
> the OP, however, is probably better off slapping a CD drive and a 
> floppy drive into any old Intel box, add a couple NICs, and call it a 
> day - or a dedicated firewall.
>
Virtualization is an ugly beast that you learn to love with time. I find 
running several VMs on a single server (eventually with adequate 
redundancy, like ECC, RAID et al) actually more elegant (and 
energy-saving, and reliable, and silent... you get the point) than 
having old desktops running business-critical software. My main issue 
here is the hardware reliability; if you can survive a hardware failure, 
go for it. However, this reminds me that some things are free if and 
only if you don't value your time.

Just my €0.02...

Paulo