ZyXEL Communications P-2802H-I Series, User Manual

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P-2802H(W)(L)-I Series User’s Guide
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H A P T E R
6
WAN Setup
This chapter describes how to configure WAN settings.
6.1 WAN Overview
A WAN (Wide Area Network) is an outside connection to another network or the Internet.
6.1.1 PPP over Ethernet
The ZyXEL Device supports PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet). PPPoE is an
IETF Draft standard (RFC 2516) specifying how a personal computer (PC) interacts with a
broadband modem (DSL, cable, wireless, etc.) connection. The
PPPoE
option is for a dial-up
connection using PPPoE.
For the service provider, PPPoE offers an access and authentication method that works with
existing access control systems (for example RADIUS).
One of the benefits of PPPoE is the ability to let you access one of multiple network services,
a function known as dynamic service selection. This enables the service provider to easily
create and offer new IP services for individuals.
Operationally, PPPoE saves significant effort for both you and the ISP or carrier, as it requires
no specific configuration of the broadband modem at the customer site.
By implementing PPPoE directly on the ZyXEL Device (rather than individual computers),
the computers on the LAN do not need PPPoE software installed, since the ZyXEL Device
does that part of the task. Furthermore, with NAT, all of the LANs’ computers will have
access.
6.1.2 IP Address Assignment
A static IP is a fixed IP that your ISP gives you. A dynamic IP is not fixed; the ISP assigns you
a different one each time. The SUA (Single User Account) feature can be enabled or disabled
if you have either a dynamic or static IP. However the encapsulation method assigned
influences your choices for IP address and default gateway.