Figure 3-4 Network Topology – Classic Mode

Choose the menu Network→System Mode to load the following page.

Figure 3-5 System Mode

You can select a System Mode for your Router according to your network need.

zNAT Mode

NAT (Network Address Translation) mode allows the Router to translate private IP addresses within internal networks to public IP addresses for traffic transport over external networks, such as the Internet. Incoming traffic is translated back for delivery within the internal network. However, the Router will drop all the packets whose source IP addresses are in different subnet of LAN port. For example: If the LAN port of the Router is set to 192.168.0.1 for IP address and 255.255.255.0 for the Subnet Mask, then the subnet of LAN port is 192.168.0.0/24. The packet with 192.168.0.123 as its source IP address can be transported by NAT, whereas the packet with 20.31.76.80 as its source IP address will be dropped.

zNon-NAT Mode

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TP-Link TL-ER6120 manual Non-NAT Mode

TL-ER6120 specifications

The TP-Link TL-ER6120 is a robust and versatile gigabit router designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering high-performance routing capabilities while ensuring secure network management. This device stands out for its user-friendly configuration, affordability, and rich feature set tailored for business needs.

One of the key features of the TL-ER6120 is its advanced routing capabilities. It supports load balancing and failover, ensuring reliable internet connectivity by distributing traffic across multiple WAN ports. This helps to maintain optimal performance even during high-traffic periods. The router can accommodate up to three WAN ports, providing flexibility in terms of connection options and redundancy.

Security is paramount in any business network, and the TL-ER6120 does not disappoint. It includes a robust firewall with stateful packet inspection, preventing unauthorized access and safeguarding sensitive data. The router also supports various VPN protocols, including PPTP, L2TP, and IPSec, enabling secure remote access for employees working from remote locations. This feature is particularly beneficial as remote work becomes more prevalent.

In addition to its security features, the TL-ER6120 offers support for VLAN configuration, allowing businesses to segment their networks for better performance and security. Dynamic Routing Protocols such as RIP v1/v2, and static routing are also supported, ensuring seamless data exchange across different network segments.

Another significant aspect of the TL-ER6120 is its Quality of Service (QoS) functionality. This feature enables users to prioritize bandwidth for critical applications, ensuring that services like VoIP and video conferencing maintain optimal performance. By managing the flow of data, businesses can enhance their operational efficiency.

The TL-ER6120 is equipped with several advanced management features, including a web-based user interface that simplifies network configuration and monitoring. Users can easily manage their network settings, view traffic statistics, and troubleshoot issues without advanced technical knowledge.

In conclusion, the TP-Link TL-ER6120 is an excellent choice for businesses seeking a reliable, feature-rich router. Its combination of security, performance, and ease of use makes it an ideal solution for managing business networks efficiently. Whether for load balancing, secure remote access, or network segmentation, the TL-ER6120 meets diverse business needs with sophistication and reliability.