Today we will talk about what the WAN port of the router is, how to configure it and how it differs from the LAN. This solution is used to connect routers and routers to the Internet. The correct configuration of this channel ensures stable operation of network equipment.
Procedure
First of all, we will discuss how to configure a WAN port. So, we connect the router to the network. Using a
network cable (usually included with the above equipment), we connect the LAN port of the router and the
network card of a computer or laptop. Turn on both devices. We are waiting for the completion of loading the personal computer. We open the Internet browser. Enter the IP address of the router. This value can be clarified in the instruction manual of the device. Press the Enter key. We are waiting for the completion of loading the web-interface of the equipment.
Work in the browser
Next, to configure the WAN port, enter the login and password. This action will allow access to the ability to configure the parameters of the router. Open the WAN menu. In some cases, it may be called Internet, or Setup. We fill in the proposed table. Choose the type of protocol for data transfer, for example, PPTP, or L2TP. We indicate the type of encryption if this function is supported by the selected provider. Enter the access point or IP of the Internet server. Fill in the field “Login”, as well as “Password”. Data is provided by the provider. Check the box next to the item about automatically obtaining the DNS server address. If you need to enter a static IP address for the router, fill in the Static IP column.
Saving Settings
We activate the functions of Firewall, NAT and DHCP. To do this, check the boxes next to the corresponding items. Some parameters may not be applied if it is not planned to connect more than one personal computer to the equipment. To fully configure the WAN port, you must click the "Save" button. Reboot the router. For this purpose, you can use the menu functions, or turn off the device for a couple of seconds and restart. We connect the provider cable to the WAN. Checking the health of the router. To do this, launch the browser and open several pages in it.
Difference
We figured out the settings, now we will consider how the WAN differs from the LAN. An ordinary router has only one port of the first type and several of the second. Outwardly, they are all the same, but confusion is unacceptable to ensure the correct operation of the equipment. WAN is a global
computer network concept that spans and integrates a huge number of computer systems around the world. LAN is a local phenomenon involving a small number of PCs in a small area. The difference between these concepts lies in the purpose of the network. WAN - an external association connecting local groups, as well as individual computers. Network participants are able to interact with each other taking into account the data transfer speed.
The Internet is the most famous, but not the only WAN network at the moment. That is why on routers there is a port with the corresponding abbreviation. It is designed to connect to an Internet cable. LAN is used to connect to a local network. Such coverage may extend to a maximum of several kilometers. WAN-network is not limited by territory, and even telephone lines can be used for its organization. When connecting a LAN, a direct topology is applied. WAN-based mixed hierarchical. In addition, the described channels differ in the applicable data transfer protocols. The number of clients when connecting a LAN is limited. Now you know what a WAN port is and how to configure it.