ZyXEL Communications 650 Series - Manual (Page 87)

Prestige 650 Series User’s Guide
WAN Setup 6-1
Chapter 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.
See the Wizard Setup chapter for more information on the fields in the WAN screens.
6.2 PPPoE Encapsulation
The Prestige 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). PPPoE provides a login and authentication method that the existing
Microsoft Dial-Up Networking software can activate, and therefore requires no new learning or procedures
for Windows users.
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 Prestige (rather than individual computers), the computers on the
LAN do not need PPPoE software installed, since the Prestige does that part of the task. Furthermore, with
NAT, all of the LANs’ computers will have access.
6.3 PPTP Encapsulation
Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) is a network protocol that enables secure transfer of data from a
remote client to a private server, creating a Virtual Private Network (VPN) using TCP/IP-based networks.
PPTP supports on-demand, multi-protocol and virtual private networking over public networks, such as the
Internet.