ZyXEL Communications Prestige 650ME, User Manual, Page: 179 / 199

Prestige 650ME ADSL Bridge
UPnP E
Appendix A
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP)
What is Universal Plug and Play?
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) is a distributed, open networking standard that uses TCP/IP for simple peer-
to-peer network connectivity between devices.
A UPnP device can dynamically join a network, obtain an IP address, convey its capabilities and learn about
other devices on the network. In turn, a device can leave a network smoothly and automatically when it is no
longer in use.
How do I know if I’m using UPnP?
UPnP hardware is identified as an icon in the Network Connections folder. Each UPnP compatible device
installed on your network will appear as a separate icon. Selecting the icon of a UPnP device will allow you
to access the information and properties of that device.
What about NAT Transversal?
UPnP automates the process of allowing an application to operate through NAT. Windows Messenger is an
example of an application that supports NAT Transversal and UPnP.
See the NAT chapter for more information.
Are there any cautions about UPnP?
The automated nature of NAT Transversal applications in establishing their own services and opening
firewall ports may present issues relating to network security. Network information and configuration may
also be obtained and modified by users in some network environments.