PLANET MH-1000 - Manual (Page 23)

Multi-Homing Security Gateway User’s Manual
Chapter 3: Getting Started
3.1 Overview
MH-1000 is designed to be a powerful and flexible network device that is also easy to use. With an intuitive
web-based configuration, MH-1000 allows you to administer your network via virtually any Java-enabled
web browser and is fully compatible with Linux, Mac OS, and Windows 98/ME/NT/2000/XP operating
systems.
The following chapter takes you through the very first steps to configuring your network for MH-1000. Take
a look and see how easy it is to get your network up and running.
3.2 Before You Begin
In order to simplify the configuration process and increase the efficiency of your network, you should
consider the following items before setting up your network for the first time:
1. Plan your network
Decide whether you are going to use one or both WAN ports. For one WAN port, you may need a fully
qualified domain name either for convenience or if you have a dynamic IP address. If you are going to use
both WAN ports, determine whether you are going to use them in fail over mode for increased network
reliability or load balancing mode for maximum bandwidth efficiency. See Chapter 2: Router Applications
for more information.
2. Set up your accounts
Have access to the Internet and locate the Internet Service Provider (ISP) configuration information. Each
MH-1000 WAN port must be configured separately, whether you are using a separate ISP for each WAN
port or are having the traffic of both WAN ports routed through the same ISP.
3. Determine your network management approach
MH-1000 is capable of remote management. However, this feature is not active by default. If you reset the
device, remote administration must be enabled again. If you decide to manage your network remotely, be
sure to change the default password for security reason.
4. Prepare to physically connect MH-1000 to Cable or DSL modems and a computer.
3.3 Configuring PCs for TCP/IP Networking
In order for your networked PCs to communicate with your router, they must have the following
characteristics:
1. Have a properly installed and functioning Ethernet Network Interface Card (NIC).
2. Be connected to MH-1000, either directly or through an external repeater hub via an Ethernet cable.
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