Chapter 3

LAN Configuration

This chapter describes how to configure the advanced LAN features of your ProSafe VPN Firewall

200.These features can be found by selecting Network Configuration from the primary menu and LAN Setup from the submenu of the browser interface.

Using the Firewall as a DHCP server

By default, the firewall will function as a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server, allowing it to assign IP, DNS server, WINS Server, and default gateway addresses to all computers connected to the firewall LAN. The assigned default gateway address is the LAN address of the firewall. IP addresses will be assigned to the attached PCs from a pool of addresses specified in this menu. Each pool address is tested before it is assigned to avoid duplicate addresses on the LAN.

For most applications, the default DHCP and TCP/IP settings of the firewall are satisfactory. See the link to “Preparing a Computer for Network Access” in Appendix B, “Related Documents” for an explanation of DHCP and information about how to assign IP addresses for your network.

If another device on your network will be the DHCP server, or if you will manually configure the network settings of all of your computers, clear the Enable DHCP server radio box by selecting the Disable DHCP Server radio box. Otherwise, leave it checked.

Specify the pool of IP addresses to be assigned by setting the Starting IP Address and Ending IP Address. These addresses should be part of the same IP address subnet as the firewall’s LAN IP address. Using the default addressing scheme, you should define a range between 192.168.1.2 and 192.168.1.100, although you may wish to save part of the range for devices with fixed addresses.

The firewall will deliver the following parameters to any LAN device that requests DHCP:

An IP Address from the range you have defined.

Subnet Mask.

Gateway IP Address (the firewall’s LAN IP address).

Primary DNS Server (the firewall’s LAN IP address).

WINS Server (if you entered a WINS server address in the DHCP Setup menu).

Lease Time (date obtained and duration of lease).

LAN Configuration

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NETGEAR VPN Firewall 200 FVX538 manual Chapter LAN Configuration, Using the Firewall as a Dhcp server

VPN Firewall 200 FVX538 specifications

The NETGEAR VPN Firewall 200 FVX538 is a robust solution designed to meet the networking needs of small to medium-sized businesses. Engineered for resource management and security, this firewall combines the essential features of a VPN (Virtual Private Network) and firewall functionality into a single device, enabling secure, high-speed connectivity for various devices in any organizational environment.

One of the standout features of the FVX538 is its integrated VPN support, capable of handling up to 5 simultaneous VPN connections. This is particularly beneficial for remote workers and branch offices that require secure access to the company network. The device supports IPsec and L2TP VPN protocols, which helps ensure the integrity and confidentiality of data transmitted over the internet.

Another key characteristic of the FVX538 is its advanced firewall capabilities. This unit employs Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) that scrutinizes incoming and outgoing packets, ensuring that only legitimate traffic is permitted. With customizable access control policies, network administrators can define specific permissions for various users. This feature is crucial for maintaining a secure environment and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information.

The device also supports multiple WAN (Wide Area Network) connections, allowing for load balancing and failover capabilities. By utilizing two WAN ports, the FVX538 can switch between internet connections seamlessly, ensuring optimal uptime and performance even during network disruptions. Such functionality is essential for businesses that rely on constant connectivity.

Additionally, the FVX538 includes various security features such as Denial of Service (DoS) protection, NAT (Network Address Translation) support, and DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server functionalities. These features work together to create a secure networking environment while simplifying the management of IP addresses within the network.

The user-friendly web management interface of the FVX538 makes it accessible for network administrators of all skill levels. With comprehensive logging and monitoring capabilities, organizations can keep an eye on network activities, enabling them to react swiftly to any potential threats.

In conclusion, the NETGEAR VPN Firewall 200 FVX538 stands out as a versatile, secure, and efficient solution for businesses looking to enhance their network security and performance. With its combination of VPN capabilities, robust firewall features, and user-friendly management tools, it is a reliable choice for ensuring secure and efficient networking operations.