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Introduction to the IntraPort Carrier-8
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Introduction to the IntraPort Carrier-8
The IntraPort Carrier-8 (IPC) is a Layer 3 to Layer 2 gateway designed to let Network Service
Providers (NSPs) sell services that provide secure access to traditional networks such as Frame Relay
via IPSec-based Virtual Private Network (VPN) client sessions.
The IPC terminates Layer 3 IPSec sessions which were initiated by PCs running VPN Client soft-
ware. Client PCs may be connected to the IP infrastructure (on or off a particular NSP’s network) via
dial-up or direct Ethernet attachment. The IPC administrator determines whether these sessions are
encrypted and/or digitally signed.
Traffic from client sessions is typically decrypted and authenticated by the IPC, and then switched
into pre-specified Layer 2 virtual circuits (VCs), if a WAN interface is in use, or routed onto the
Ethernet at the POP. The process also works in reverse, with traffic received from a specific VC or
POP network typically being encrypted and digitally signed before being routed to the appropriate
client session.
RADIUS authentication can be used to provide general access control to the IPC, along with
returning information regarding which set of pre-configured parameters a client session should be
assigned.
IPC systems are based on a two-slot chassis that can hold one or two I/O cards. Currently available
I/O cards include 3DES - DS3, 3DES - HSSI and DES - 10/100 Ethernet. These can be used in any
combination desired.
IntraPort Carrier-8 Manual Overview
The manual is divided into several sections that should provide you with the basic information you
will need to use the IntraPort Carrier-8 on your network. For the latest documentation on Compatible
Systems products, including the most current version of this manual, visit the Technical Support
section of our Web site.
Chapter 1 - Getting Started
This part of the manual describes the contents of the IntraPort Carrier-8 package and emphasizes the
preparation and equipment you will need to install the server.
Chapter 2 - Mounting Instructions
This part of the manual includes detailed instructions for mounting the IntraPort Carrier-8 in a variety
of equipment racks.
Chapter 3 - Powering Up the Server
This part of the manual includes information on the voltage switch and instructions for powering up
the device.
Chapter 4 - CompatiView Software Installation
This part of the manual describes how to install CompatiView, Compatible Systems’ GUI (Graphical
User Interface) management software which is included with your server.
Chapter 5 - Command Line Preparation
This part of the manual provides basic instructions for using command line management and
text-based configuration to configure a server.
Chapter 6 - Functionality and Configuration Overview
This part of the manual provides a minimal list of parameters that must be entered into a server for
proper operation.
Chapter 7 - Test Switch Settings
This part of the manual describes the test switch settings.
Appendices
This part of the manual includes additional information that might be of interest to you such as tech-
nical specifications, some maintenance procedures and instructions for downloading current software.