Today we will tell you what the WAN port of the router is, how to configure it and how it differs from the LAN. This solution is used to connect routers and routers to the Internet. The correct configuration of this channel ensures stable operation of network equipment.
Procedure
First of all, we will discuss how to configure the WAN port. So, we connect the router to the network. Using a network cable (usually it is part of the above equipment), connect the LAN port of the router and the network card of the computer or laptop. We turn on both devices. We are waiting for the download of the personal computer to be completed. Open the Internet browser. Enter the IP address of the router. This value can be specified in the user guide of the device. Press the Enter key. We are waiting for the download of the web-interface of the equipment.
Working in the Browser
Next, to configure the WAN port, enter the login, as well as the password. This action will allow you to access the ability to configure the parameters of the router. Open the WAN menu. In some cases, it can be called Internet, or Setup. We fill the table. We choose the type of protocol for data transfer, for example, PPTP, or L2TP. Specify the type of encryption in case this function is supported by the selected provider. Enter the access point, or IP of the Internet server. We fill in the field "Login", and also "Password". The data is provided by the provider. We check the box next to the automatic receipt of the DNS server address. If you need to enter a static IP address for the router, fill in the Static IP column.
Saving Settings
We activate the functions Firewall, NAT and DHCP. To do this, check the boxes corresponding to the corresponding items. Some parameters can be omitted if you do not plan to connect more than one personal computer to the equipment. To fully configure the WAN port, click the "Save" button. Reboot the router. To this end, you can use the menu functions, or turn off the device for a couple of seconds and restart. We connect the provider cable with the WAN. We check the operability of the router. To do this, start the browser and open several pages in it.
Difference
With the configuration, we figured out, now we'll look at what distinguishes WAN from LAN. The usual router has only one port of the first type and a few second. Externally, they are all the same, but to ensure correct operation of the equipment, confusion is unacceptable. WAN is a concept that implies a global computer network that covers and unites a huge number of computer systems around the world. LAN is a local phenomenon that includes a small number of PCs in a small area. The difference between these concepts lies in the purpose of the network. WAN is an external join that connects local groups, as well as individual computers. Network participants are able to interact with each other taking into account the data transfer rate.
The Internet is the most famous, but not the only WAN-network at the moment. That's why on the routers there is a port with the corresponding abbreviation. It is designed to connect to the Internet cable. LAN is used to connect to a local network. Such coverage can spread for a maximum of several kilometers. WAN-network is not limited by territory, and even telephone lines can be used for its organization. When connecting LAN, a direct topology is used. The WAN-network is based on a mixed hierarchical. In addition, the described channels differ in the communication protocols used. The number of clients with a LAN connection is limited. Now you know what a WAN port is and how to configure it.