Connecting to Your Local Area Network 3-1

Chapter 3

Connecting to Your Local Area Network

This chapter describes how to physically connect the Netopia 4522 to your local area network (LAN). Before you proceed, make sure the Netopia 4522 is properly configured. You can customize the router’s configuration for your particular LAN requirements using console-based management (see “Console-Based Management” on page 5-1).

This section covers the following topics:

“Readying Computers on Your Local Network” on page 3-1

“Connecting to an Ethernet Network” on page 3-2

Readying Computers on Your Local Network

PC and Macintosh computers must have certain components installed before they can communicate through the Netopia 4522. The following illustration shows the minimal requirements for a typical PC or Macintosh computer.

Application software

TCP/IP stack

Ethernet Driver

Your PC

or Macintosh computer

To the Netopia 4522

Application software: This is the software you use to send e-mail, browse the World Wide Web, read newsgroups, etc. These applications may require some configuration. Examples include the Eudora e-mail client and the Web browsers Microsoft Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator.

TCP/IP stack: This is the software that lets your PC or Macintosh computer communicate using Internet protocols. TCP/IP stacks must be configured with some of the same information you used to configure the Netopia 4522. There are a number of TCP/IP stacks available for PC computers. Windows 95 includes a built-in TCP/IP stack. Macintosh computers use either MacTCP or Open Transport. See “Configuring TCP/IP on Windows-based Computers” on page 4-1. Macintosh computers use either MacTCP or Open Transport. See “Configuring TCP/IP on Macintosh Computers” on page 4-5.

Ethernet: Ethernet hardware and software drivers enable your PC or Macintosh computer to communicate on the LAN.

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Netopia 4522 T1 manual Chapter Connecting to Your Local Area Network, Readying Computers on Your Local Network

4522 T1 specifications

The Netopia 4522 T1 is a robust modem designed primarily for businesses that demand reliable and efficient internet connectivity. This device is part of the Netopia series, which is renowned for its advanced features and dependable performance in various networking environments.

One of the main characteristics of the Netopia 4522 T1 is its support for T1 line connectivity, a dedicated leased line that offers stable and consistent internet service. T1 lines can transfer data at a speed of 1.544 Mbps, making it an ideal choice for businesses that require stable upload and download speeds to handle activities like video conferencing, online transactions, and large file transfers.

A key feature of the Netopia 4522 T1 is its built-in routing capabilities. It includes a powerful integrated router, allowing users to connect multiple devices over a single T1 connection. This feature is essential for small to medium-sized businesses that utilize multiple workstations, ensuring that all devices can access the internet simultaneously without compromising speed or reliability.

In terms of security, the Netopia 4522 T1 incorporates essential firewall features, including NAT (Network Address Translation) and DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server capabilities. These functionalities help protect the network from potential external threats and efficiently manage IP address allocation for connected devices.

The device also supports advanced network management features, including Quality of Service (QoS). This technology prioritizes critical applications and ensures that they receive the necessary bandwidth, preventing latency during peak usage times.

Additionally, the Netopia 4522 T1 is designed for easy installation and management. With a user-friendly web interface, administrators can configure settings, monitor performance, and troubleshoot issues quickly. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for businesses that may not have dedicated IT staff.

Overall, the Netopia 4522 T1 is a reliable choice for organizations that require a dedicated internet connection with strong performance, security, and user-friendly management options. Its combination of T1 technology and integrated routing capabilities makes it a valuable asset for businesses looking to enhance their online connectivity and maintain productivity.