4

The Configuration Utility

4.1 Overview

This chapter shows you how to use the ZyXEL PLA Series Configuration utility (or utility) to secure, manage and set up Quality of Service (QoS) on your powerline network.

The PLA is designed as a plug-and-play network expanding solution. This means that once you complete your hardware connections, the PLAs in your network (without additional configuration) are able to communicate with each other by sending and receiving information over your home’s electrical wiring (A).

Figure 13 Example Network Setup

A

PLA

PLA

All HomePlug AV compliant powerline adapters within range can join your network. The range varies depending on the quality of your home’s wiring.

Note: See Section 4.1.1 on page 25 for more information on enhancing your powerline network security.

4.1.1 Powerline Network Security

When the PLAs communicate with each other, they use encryption to protect the information that is sent in the powerline network. Encryption is like a secret code. If you do not know the secret code, you cannot understand the message. The HomePlug AV standard uses 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) to safely transmit data between powerline adapters.

 

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PLA Series User’s Guide