ZyXEL Communications 1.5Security, 1.5.1 Passwords, 1.5.2 Setting Up Security

Chapter 1 Introducing the PLA-4xx

"This User’s Guide describes the latest version utility. This utility is only compatible with a PLA-4xx which has the latest firmware installed. If you don’t already have them, download the latest firmware and utility from the ZyXEL website.

1.5Security

Since your powerline network may extend outside your premises, it is important to set up security on your PLA-4xx.

1.5.1 Passwords

You use two types of passwords in the HomePlug AV powerline network. The following table describes the differences between the passwords.

Table 1 Password Summary

PASSWORD	DESCRIPTION
Network Name	All powerline adapters that follow the HomePlug AV standard are
	shipped with the same powerline network name “HomePlugAV”.
	Change the network name via the PLA-4xx Series Configuration
	Utility to create a private network. See Section 5.3 on page 45.
DAK (Data Access	In order to manage the powerline adapters on your powerline
Key) Password	network you must enter the adapters’ DAK password in the PLA-4xx
	Series Configuration Utility. This password is printed on the
	powerline adapter itself.
	You don’t need to add the password for the powerline adapter
	directly connected to the computer running the configuration utility
	(local powerline adapter), you only have to add the remote powerline
	adapters’ passwords (those on your circuit, but not directly
	connected to your computer).

1.5.2 Setting Up Security

The ENCRYPT feature automatically sets up security on your powerline network. Use this feature if your powerline devices have the ENCRYPT button.

If your devices do not have the ENCRYPT button, use the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility to set up security on the PLA-4xx. Although the PLA-4xx is a “plug-and-play” network expanding solution there are several reasons for enabling security on the powerline network in your home.

1It’s easy and only requires you to change a network name.

2It’s a good idea to ensure privacy of your communication. When you use the PLA-4xx and other powerline adapters, the electrical wiring in your home becomes an extension of your Ethernet network. Your network traffic flows freely within the electrical circuit of your home and is bounded in most cases by a power meter.

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PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide