ZyXEL Communications PLA-402 v3, User Manual

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PLA-402 v3 User’s Guide
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H A P T E R
5
The Configuration Utility
5.1 Overview
This chapter shows you how to use the Configuration Utility (or Utility) to secure,
manage and set up Quality of Service (QoS) on your powerline coaxial network.
The PLA-402 v3 is designed as a plug-and-play network expanding solution. This
means that once you complete your hardware connections, the PLA-402 v3s in
your network (without additional configuration) are able to communicate with
each other by sending and receiving information over your home’s electrical wiring
(
A ). You also have the option to use coaxial cables ( B ) to expand your network.
Figure 13 Example Network Setup
All HomePlug AV compliant coaxial adapters within range can join your network.
The range varies depending on the quality of your home’s wiring.
Note: See Section 5.1.1 on page 35 for more information on enhancing your
powerline coaxial network security.
In the case of coaxial cable this can extend beyond the boundary of your home
(for example your neighbor’s house or apartment).
5.1.1 Powerline Network Security
When the PLA-402 v3s communicate with each other, they use encryption to
protect the information that is sent in the powerline coaxial network. Encryption is
like a secret code. If you do not know the secret code, you cannot understand the