10/100 16-Port VPN Router

Chapter 2: Networking Basics

An Introduction to LANs

A Router is a network device that connects two networks together.

The Router connects your local area network (LAN), or the group of PCs in your home or office, to the Internet. The Router processes and regulates the data that travels between these two networks.

The Router’s Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) firewall and Network Address Translation (NAT) technology protects your network of PCs so users on the Internet cannot “see” your PCs. This is how your LAN remains private. The Router protects your network by inspecting the first packet coming in through the Internet port before delivery to the final destination on one of the Ethernet ports. The Router inspects Internet port services like the web server, ftp server, or other Internet applications, and, if allowed, it will forward the packet to the appropriate PC on the LAN side.

The Use of IP Addresses

IP stands for Internet Protocol. Every device in an IP-based network, including PCs, print servers, and routers, requires an IP address to identify its location, or address, on the network. This applies to both the Internet and LAN connections.

There are two ways of assigning IP addresses to your network devices.

A static IP address is a fixed IP address that you assign manually to a PC or other device on the network. Since a static IP address remains valid until you disable it, static IP addressing ensures that the device assigned it will always have that same IP address until you change it. Static IP addresses are commonly used with network devices such as server PCs or print servers.

If you use the Router to share your cable or DSL Internet connection, contact your ISP to find out if they have assigned a static IP address to your account. If so, you will need that static IP address when configuring the Router. You can get the information from your ISP.

A dynamic IP address is automatically assigned to a device on the network. These IP addresses are called dynamic because they are only temporarily assigned to the PC or other device. After a certain time period, they expire and may change. If a PC logs onto the network (or the Internet) and its dynamic IP address has expired, the DHCP server will assign it a new dynamic IP address.

Chapter 2: Networking Basics

LAN (Local Area Network): the computers and networking products that make up the network in your home or office.

NAT (Network Address Translation): NAT technology translates IP addresses of a local area network to a different IP address for the Internet.

SPI (Stateful Packet Inspection) firewall: a technology that inspects every incoming packet of information before allowing it to enter the network.

Static IP address: a fixed address assigned to a computer or device that is connected to a network.

Dynamic IP address: a temporary IP address assigned by a DHCP server.

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): a protocol that lets one device on a local network, known as a DHCP server, assign temporary IP addresses to the other network devices, typically computers.

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An Introduction to LANs

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Linksys RV016 manual Networking Basics, An Introduction to LANs, Use of IP Addresses
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RV016 specifications

The Linksys RV016 is a robust VPN router designed for small to medium-sized businesses, providing secure and reliable network connectivity. This device offers versatile features, catering to the demands of advanced users while maintaining ease of use for those less experienced with networking technologies.

One of the standout characteristics of the Linksys RV016 is its ability to handle multiple WAN connections. It features dual WAN ports, which enable load balancing and failover support. This ensures that in the event one internet connection fails, the other takes over seamlessly, minimizing downtime and enhancing productivity. The RV016 is equipped with eight Ethernet ports, providing sufficient connectivity for various devices within an office environment.

Security is a paramount consideration in the design of the RV016. The device supports a robust VPN (Virtual Private Network) capability, allowing secure remote access for employees working from home or traveling. The router supports both IPSec and PPTP VPN protocols, ensuring versatile and secure communication channels. Additionally, it offers advanced firewall features, including stateful packet inspection (SPI) and denial-of-service (DoS) attack prevention, which safeguard the network from unauthorized access and external threats.

Linksys has also incorporated Quality of Service (QoS) features into the RV016, allowing users to prioritize their network traffic. This is particularly useful for businesses that rely on voice over IP (VoIP) services or have high bandwidth applications, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth for optimal performance.

The RV016 supports a variety of network management protocols, including DHCP, DNS, and static routing, making it easy to integrate into existing network infrastructures. Its web-based interface simplifies configuration and management, enabling IT staff to efficiently set up network parameters without the need for extensive training.

In summary, the Linksys RV016 stands out as a feature-rich VPN router that combines security, reliability, and ease of use. Its multiple WAN support, advanced security features, and network management capabilities make it an ideal choice for businesses seeking a dependable networking solution. Whether handling remote access or managing network performance, the RV016 provides the necessary tools to keep business operations running smoothly.
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