Utilizing Iptables with Linux for Network Packet Mangling

Initially, never having had to use Iptables other than as a state of the art firewall to protect my system from various questionable external network factors, a particular event relating to my ISP’s ‘odd’ internet connection prompted me to engage in some in-depth troubleshooting one day. This occurred when I decided to set up an internal LAN connecting several other laptops and desktops in my home based office. What better tool (and free) was up to the task other than Iptables coupled with Linux to function as my primary router and gateway for the other machines?