NETGEAR FVG318 manual Easy Installation and Management

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Reference Manual for the ProSafe Wireless 802.11g VPN Firewall Model FVG318

IP Address Sharing by NAT

The FVG318 wireless VPN firewall allows several networked PCs to share an Internet account using only a single IP address, which may be statically or dynamically assigned by your Internet service provider (ISP). This technique, known as NAT, allows the use of an inexpensive single-user ISP account.

Automatic Configuration of Attached PCs by DHCP

The FVG318 wireless VPN firewall dynamically assigns network configuration information, including IP, gateway, and Domain Name Server (DNS) addresses, to attached PCs on the LAN using the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). This feature greatly simplifies configuration of PCs on your local network.

DNS Proxy

When DHCP is enabled and no DNS addresses are specified, the firewall provides its own address as a DNS server to the attached PCs. The firewall obtains actual DNS addresses from the ISP during connection setup and forwards DNS requests from the LAN.

Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE)

PPPoE is a protocol for connecting remote hosts to the Internet over a DSL connection by simulating a dial-up connection. This feature eliminates the need to run a login program such as Entersys or WinPOET on your PC.

Easy Installation and Management

You can install, configure, and operate the ProSafe Wireless 802.11g VPN Firewall Model FVG318 within minutes after connecting it to the network. The following features simplify installation and management tasks:

Browser-based management

Browser-based configuration allows you to easily configure your firewall from almost any type of personal computer, such as Windows, Macintosh, or Linux. A user-friendly Setup Wizard is provided, and online help documentation is built into the browser-based Web Management Interface.

Smart Wizard

The FVG318 wireless VPN firewall automatically senses the type of Internet connection, asking you only for the information required for your type of ISP account.

Diagnostic functions

The firewall incorporates built-in diagnostic functions such as Ping, DNS lookup, and remote reboot.

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Introduction

v1.0, October 2005

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Contents Key Features of the Wireless VPN Firewall Chapter IntroductionWireless Multimedia WMM Support 802.11g and 802.11b Wireless NetworkingPowerful, True Firewall with Content Filtering Autosensing Ethernet Connections with Auto Uplink SecurityExtensive Protocol Support Easy Installation and Management Package Contents FVG318 Front Panel LED Descriptions FVG318 Rear Panel NETGEAR-Related Products Netgear Product Registration, Support, and DocumentationV1.0, October

FVG318 specifications

The NETGEAR FVG318 is a versatile device that combines a firewall, router, and VPN functionality, making it a powerful solution for small to medium-sized businesses as well as advanced home networking. Its multifunctional capabilities allow users to enjoy high-speed internet access while maintaining secure and private connections.

One of the standout features of the FVG318 is its built-in firewall, which provides essential protection against network threats. The firewall uses Stateful Packet Inspection to monitor and filter incoming and outgoing traffic, ensuring that unauthorized access attempts are thwarted. This is particularly important in safeguarding sensitive business data and personal information from cyber threats.

The device also supports a VPN feature, allowing remote users to connect securely to the network. This is facilitated through IPsec VPN, which supports up to 20 simultaneous VPN tunnels. This capability is invaluable for businesses with employees who work remotely or operate from multiple locations, providing secure access to internal resources no matter where they are.

Another notable characteristic of the FVG318 is its wireless connectivity. It includes high-performance IEEE 802.11g wireless technology, offering users the flexibility to connect multiple devices without the need for physical cables. This feature is ideal for environments where mobility is crucial. The router supports a throughput of up to 54 Mbps, ensuring that users have ample bandwidth for activities such as streaming, video conferencing, and large file transfers.

Additionally, the NETGEAR FVG318 comes equipped with a built-in 4-port Ethernet switch, allowing for direct wired connections to devices like computers and printers. This hybrid functionality means that users have the choice between wired and wireless connections, based on their specific needs and the layout of their workspace.

Setup and management of the FVG318 are user-friendly, with a web-based interface that simplifies the configuration process. This makes it accessible to both tech-savvy users and those less familiar with networking equipment. The device also includes quality of service (QoS) features, allowing priority to be given to essential applications such as VoIP or streaming services.

In summary, the NETGEAR FVG318 is an all-in-one networking device that offers robust security, reliable wireless and wired connections, and flexible remote access capabilities. It is designed to meet the demands of modern networking environments, making it a popular choice for both business and home network users seeking performance and security in one package.