ZyXEL Communications XTREMEMIMO X-550 User manual

ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
ZyXEL X-550
XtremeMIMOTM 802.11g Wireless Broadband Router
User’s Guide
February 2006
Version 1.1
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
Copyright
Copyright ©2006 by ZyXEL Communications Corporation
The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in any part or as a whole, transcribed, stored in a retrieval
system, translated into any language, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic,
optical, chemical, photocopying, manual, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of ZyXEL
Communications Corporation.
Published by ZyXEL Communications Corporation. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer
ZyXEL does not assume any liability arising out of the application or use of any products, or software described
herein. Neither does it convey any license under its patent rights nor the patents' rights of others. ZyXEL further
reserves the right to make changes in any products described herein without notice. This publication is subject to
change without notice.
Trademarks
Trademarks mentioned in this publication are used for identification purposes only and may be properties of their
respective owners.
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Interference Statement1
The device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operations.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15
of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio/television reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Notice 1
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's
authority to operate the equipment.
Certifications
Go to www.us.zyxel.com
• Select your product from the drop-down list box on the ZyXEL home page to go to that product's page.
• Select the certification you wish to view from this page.
1Refer to the Quick Start Guide for model specific FCC statement.
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
ZyXEL Limited Warranty
ZyXEL warrants to the original end user (purchaser) that this product is free from any defects in materials or
workmanship for a period of up to two (2) years from the date of purchase. During the warranty period and upon
proof of purchase, should the product have indications of failure due to faulty workmanship and/or materials,
ZyXEL will, at its discretion, repair or replace the defective products or components without charge for either parts
or labor and to whatever extent it shall deem necessary to restore the product or components to proper operating
condition. Any replacement will consist of a new or re-manufactured functionally equivalent product of equal value,
and will be solely at the discretion of ZyXEL. This warranty shall not apply if the product is modified, misused,
tampered with, damaged by an act of God, or subjected to abnormal working conditions.
NOTE
Repair or replacement, as provided under this warranty, is the exclusive remedy of the purchaser. This warranty is in
lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a
particular use or purpose. ZyXEL shall in no event be held liable for indirect or consequential damages of any kind
of character to the purchaser.
To obtain the services of this warranty, contact ZyXEL's Service Center for your Return Material Authorization
(RMA) number. Products must be returned Postage Prepaid. It is recommended that the unit be insured when
shipped. Any returned products without proof of purchase or those with an out-dated warranty will be repaired or
replaced (at the discretion of ZyXEL) and the customer will be billed for parts and labor. All repaired or replaced
products will be shipped by ZyXEL to the corresponding return address, Postage Paid. This warranty gives you
specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from country to country.
Online Registration
Register online at http://us.zyxel.com/ for free future product updates and information.
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
Customer Support
When contacting your Customer Support Representative, please have the following information ready:
• Serial number for your specific product
• Warranty information
• Date you received or purchased your product
• Brief description of the problem including any steps that you have taken before contacting the ZyXEL
Customer Support Representative
SUPPORT E-MAIL TELEPHONE2WEB SITE REGULAR MAIL
NORTH
AMERICA [e-mail] [phone]
ZyXEL Communications Inc.
1130 N. Miller St.
Anaheim CA 92806-2001
U.S.A.
www.us.zyxel.com
2“+” is the (prefix) number you enter to make an international telephone call.
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
Table of Contents
XtremeMIMOTM 802.11g Wireless Broadband Router................................................................................................................i
Copyright........................................................................................................................................................................................ ii
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Interference Statement.................................................................................... iii
ZyXEL Limited Warranty ............................................................................................................................................................iv
Customer Support...........................................................................................................................................................................v
Table of Contents ...........................................................................................................................................................................vi
Preface.......................................................................................................................................................................................... viii
Chapter 1 Getting To Know Your X-550.................................................................................................................................. 1-2
1.1 About Your ZyXEL X-550.......................................................................................................................... 1-2
1.2 Features..................................................................................................................................................... 1-2
1.3 Hardware Overview................................................................................................................................... 1-3
1.3.1 Real Panel............................................................................................................................................................1-3
1.3.2 Front Panel LEDs................................................................................................................................................1-4
1.4 Installation Considerations ........................................................................................................................ 1-5
1.5 Getting Started........................................................................................................................................... 1-5
Chapter 2 Wireless LAN Networking........................................................................................................................................ 2-1
2.1 Overview.................................................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 SSID......................................................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.3 Channel ..................................................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.4 Transmission Rate (Transfer Rate)........................................................................................................... 2-1
2.5 Wireless Network Application.................................................................................................................... 2-1
Chapter 3 Using the Configuration Menu................................................................................................................................. 3-1
3.1 BASIC........................................................................................................................................................ 3-2
3.1.1 Setup Wizards .....................................................................................................................................................3-2
3.1.2 BASIC - WAN....................................................................................................................................................3-3
3.1.3 BASIC - LAN......................................................................................................................................................3-6
3.1.4 BASIC - DHCP...................................................................................................................................................3-7
3.1.5 BASIC - Wireless................................................................................................................................................3-9
3.2 ADVANCED............................................................................................................................................. 3-13
3.2.1 ADVANCED - Game Hosting..........................................................................................................................3-13
3.2.2 ADVANCED - Virtual Server...........................................................................................................................3-15
3.2.3 ADVANCED - Applications.............................................................................................................................3-17
3.2.4 ADVANCED - StreamEngine™.......................................................................................................................3-19
3.2.5 ADVANCED - Routing ....................................................................................................................................3-21
3.2.6 ADVANCED - Access Control.........................................................................................................................3-22
3.2.7 ADVANCED - WEB Filter...............................................................................................................................3-24
3.2.8 ADVANCED - MAC Filter ..............................................................................................................................3-25
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
3.2.9 ADVANCED - Firewall................................................................................................................................... 3-26
3.2.10 ADVANCED - Inbound Filter.......................................................................................................................... 3-27
3.2.11 ADVANCED - Wireless .................................................................................................................................. 3-29
3.2.12 ADVANCED - Schedules................................................................................................................................ 3-30
3.3 TOOLS .....................................................................................................................................................3-32
3.3.1 TOOLS - Admin............................................................................................................................................... 3-32
3.3.2 TOOLS - Time ................................................................................................................................................. 3-34
3.3.3 TOOLS - Syslog............................................................................................................................................... 3-35
3.3.4 TOOLS - Email ................................................................................................................................................ 3-36
3.3.5 TOOLS - System.............................................................................................................................................. 3-37
3.3.6 TOOLS - Firmware .......................................................................................................................................... 3-38
3.3.7 Tools - DDNS (Dynamic DNS)........................................................................................................................ 3-39
3.4 STAUS......................................................................................................................................................3-41
3.4.1 STATUS - Device info..................................................................................................................................... 3-41
3.4.2 STATUS - Wireless.......................................................................................................................................... 3-41
3.4.3 STATUS - Logs................................................................................................................................................ 3-42
3.4.4 STATUS - Statistics ......................................................................................................................................... 3-44
Glossary............................................................................................................................................................................................ i
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
Preface
Congratulations on your purchase of the XtremeMIMOTM X-550 Wireless Broadband Router. This
manual is designed to guide you through the configuration of your ZyXEL X-550 for its various
applications.
This manual may refer to the X-550 or 802.11g Secure Wireless Broadband Router with Firewall as the
Router.
Note: Register your product online to receive e-mail notices of firmware upgrades and information
at www.us.zyxel.com
About This User's Manual
This User’s Guide is designed to guide you through the configuration of your X-550 using the web
configurator(GUI). The web configurator parts of this guide contain background information on features
configurable by web configurator.
Related Documentation
• Refer to the included CD for support documents.
• Quick Start Guide
• The Quick Start Guide is designed to help you get up and running right away. They contain
connection information and instructions on getting started.
• Refer to the product page at www.us.zyxel.com for information on product certifications.
• ZyXEL Glossary and Web Site
• Please refer to www.us.zyxel.com for an online glossary of networking terms and additional support
documentation.
User’s Guide Feedback
Help us help you. E-mail all User’s Guide-related comments, questions or suggestions for improvement to
[email protected]. Thank you.
Syntax Conventions
• “Enter” means for you to type one or more characters and press the carriage return. “Select” or
“Choose” means for you to use one of the predefined choices.
• The choices of a menu item are in Bold Arial font.
• Mouse action sequences are denoted using a comma. For example, “click the Apple icon, Control
Panels and then Modem” means first click the Apple icon, then point your mouse pointer to
Control Panels and then click Modem.
• For brevity’s sake, we will use “e.g.” as a shorthand for “for instance” and “i.e.” for “that is” or “in
other words” throughout this manual.
• The following conventions are used in this manual:
THE NOTE SYMBOL INDICATES ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ON THE TOPIC AT HAND.
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
THE TIP SYMBOL INDICATES HELPFULL INFORMATION AND
TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR NETWORK EXPERIENCE.
THE CAUTION SYMBOL ALERTS YOU TO SITUATIONS THAT
MAY DEGRADE YOUR NETWORKING EXPERIENCE OR
COMPROMISE YOUR SECURITY.
LIKE NOTES AND TIPS, THE IMPORTANT SYMBOL INDICATES
INFORMATION THAT CAN IMPROVE NETWORKING. THIS
INFORMATION SHOULD NOT BE OVERLOOKED.
Package Contents
• X-550 XtremeMIMOTM Wireless Broadband Router
• CAT-5 Ethernet Cable (All the X-550’s Ethernet ports are Auto-MDIX)
• Power Adapter (5.0V, 2A)
• Support CD
Using a power supply with a different voltage than the one included with your product will
cause damage and void the warranty for this product.
Minimum System Requirements
• Ethernet-Based Cable or DSL Modem
• Computers with Windows, Macintosh, or Linux-based operating systems with an installed Ethernet
adapter and CD-ROM Drive
• Internet Explorer Version 6.0 or Netscape Navigator Version 7.0 and Above.
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
Chapter 1
Getting To Know Your X-550
This chapter introduces the ZyXEL X-550 and prepares you to use the ZyXEL Utility.
1.1
1.2 Features
About Your ZyXEL X-550
The ZyXEL X-550 XtremeMIMOTM Wireless Broadband Router is an 802.11g high-performance,
wireless router that supports high-speed wireless networking in Home, SOHO, or even SMB
environments.
Unlike most routers, the X-550 provides data transfers at up to 108 Mbps (compared to the standard 54
Mbps) when coupled with other MIMO products. The X-550 is also backwards compatible with older
802.11b networks making it a true versatile device. This means there is no need to change your entire
network to maintain connectivity. 802.11b naturally has a lower throughput rate than 802.11g, but you
will not lose the ability to communicate when you incorporate the 802.11g standard into your 802.11b
network. You may choose to slowly change your network by gradually replacing the 802.11b devices
with 802.11g devices.
• Supports IEEE 802.11b/g 2.4GHz WLAN with 2.412 to 2.484GHz frequency band operation
• Provides MIMO advantages
• Intelligent receiving with directional antennas enable faster throughput and longer ranges
• Intelligent transmissions enable a more efficient performing network
• Built-in StreamEngine™ feature allows intelligent and automatic traffic prioritizing
• Data rates of 1,2.5.5,6,9, 11,12,18,24,36,48,54Mbps and Turbo Mode speeds up to 108Mbps.
Turbo Mode is an AtherosTM proprietary speed boosting technology that must be
used in conjunction with other devices using the AtherosTM radio technology
• Hardware encryption for Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA2/WPA) and Wired Equivalent Privacy
(WEP) without performance degradation
• WPA2/WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) authorizes and identifies users based with a secret key that
changes automatically at a regular interval, for example:
Pre Shared Key mode means that the home user, without a RADIUS server,
will obtain a new security key every time he or she connects to the network, vastly improving the
safety of communications on the said network
• User-friendly configuration and diagnostic utilities
• Connect multiple computers to a Cable or DSL modem to share a single Internet connection
• DHCP server enables all networked computers to automatically receive IP addresses
• Web-based interface for easy management and configuration
• Supports special applications that require multiple connections
• Equipped with four 10/100 Ethernet ports, one WAN port all with Auto MDI/MDIX
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
1.3 Hardware Overview
1.3.1 Real Panel
LAN 4 ..1
POWER ON/OFF
(WLAN)
A
ntenna
A
ntenna
WAN USBRESET
Connections and/or Features Description
POWER
Connect the barrel type connector of the included *power adaptor to this
power socket.
Please use only the included power adapter to
power the X-550.
LAN 1-4
Auto MDI/MDIX LAN Ports These ports automatically sense the cable type when connecting to
Ethernet-enabled computers.
WAN
Auto MDI/MDIX WAN Port The Internet connection from your Cable or DSL model is attached to
this port.
ON/OFF
WLAN Slide Switch Use this switch to turn off the Wireless side of the X-550 without going
into the configuration menus.
RESET
Reset Button The Reset button is used to restore the X-550 back to the factory default
settings. Push for 10 seconds to reset to factor defaults.
USB
USB Port The USB port is used for Microsoft®’s Windows Connect Now feature
Antenna The ZyXEL X-550 includes 2 fixed external Smart Antennas and 2
internal Smart Antennas.
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
1.3.2 Front Panel LEDs
LED’s Description
PWR
POWER A solid light indicates a proper connection to the power supply.
LAN
LAN1~4 A solid light indicates a connection to an Ethernet-enabled computer. Blinking
indicates data transmission.
WAN A solid light indicates a connection to a Cable or DSL broadband modem.
Blinking indicates data transmission.
WLAN A solid light indicates that the wireless connection is ready. Blinking indicates data
transmission.
USB
The USB LED will flash 3 times indicating that your X-550 has successfully
connected using the Microsoft® Windows Connect Now feature.
Please keep note of this LED when using Microsoft®
Windows Connect Now
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
1-5
1.4 Installation Considerations
The following recommendations should only be used as a reference. Your
optimal solution may vary.
The X-550 XtremeMIMO Wireless Router allows you to access your network using a wireless
connection, from virtually anywhere within its operating range. Keep in mind; however, that the
number, thickness and location of walls, ceilings, or other objects that the wireless signals must pass
through, may limit said range. Typical ranges vary depending on the types of materials and
background RF (radio frequency) noise in your home, home office or business. Follow these basic
guidelines to maximize your range in your environment:
• Keep the number of walls and ceilings between the X-550 and other network devices to a
minimum - each wall or ceiling can reduce your wireless product’s range significantly.
Position your devices so that the number of walls or ceilings is minimized.
• Be aware of the direct line between network devices. A wall, 1.5 feet thick (.5 meters), at a
45-degree angle will appear to be almost 3 feet (1 meter) thick due to the angle of incidence.
Position devices so the signal will travel perpendicular through a wall or ceiling (instead of at an
angle) for better reception.
• Building Materials can impede the wireless signal - a solid metal door or aluminum studs may
have a negative effect on range. Try to position wireless devices and computers with wireless
adapters so that the signal passes through drywall or open doorways and not other materials.
• Keep your product away (at least 3-6 feet or 1-2 meters) from electrical devices or appliances
that generate extreme RF noise such as microwaves or wireless *telephones.
*Note: depends on operating frequency
1.5 Getting Started
For a wireless setup at home, please check to make sure you have the following:
• You will need broadband Internet access (a Cable or DSL line into your home or office)
• Consult with your Cable or DSL provider for proper installation of the modem.
• Connect the Cable or DSL modem to the X-550 Wireless Broadband Router (WAN port).

ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
Chapter 2
Wireless LAN Networking
This chapter provides background information on general wireless LAN networking technology and
terminology.
THE INFORMATION IN THIS SECTION IS FOR YOUR REFERENCE. CHANGING NETWORK
SETTINGS AND PARTICULARLY SECURITY SETTTINGS SHOULD ONLY BE DONE BY AN
AUTHORIZED ADMINISTRATOR.
2.1 Overview
2.2
2.3 Channel
2.4
2.5
This section introduces the wireless LAN(WLAN) and some basic scenarios.
SSID
The SSID (Service Set Identity) is a unique name shared among all wireless devices in a wireless
network. Wireless devices must have the same SSID to communicate with each other.
A radio frequency used by a wireless device is called a channel.
Transmission Rate (Transfer Rate)
The X-550 provides various transmission (data) rate options for you to select. Options available are:
Best (Auto), 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 11 Mbps, 6 Mbps, 9 Mbps, 12 Mbps, 18 Mbps, 22 Mbps, 24
Mbps, 36 Mbps, 48 Mbps, 54 Mbps, and 108Mbps. In most networking scenarios, the factory default
setting, Best (Auto) provides the most efficient and optimal performance. This setting allows your
X-550 to operate at the maximum transmission (data) rate at any given time. When the communication
quality drops below a certain level, the X-550 automatically switches to a lower transmission (data)
rate. The X-550 will gradually increases the transmission (data) rate again when communication levels
improve and will keep on doing so until reaching the highest available transmission (data) rate.
Wireless Network Application
Wireless LAN networking works in either of the two methodologies: ad-hoc and infrastructure. In
infrastructure mode, wireless devices communicate to a wired LAN via access points. Each access
point and its wireless devices are known as a Basic Service Set (BSS). An Extended Service Set (ESS)
is two or more BSSs in the same subnet. In ad hoc mode (also known as peer-to-peer mode), wireless
devices communicate with each other directly and do not use an access point. This is an Independent
BSS (IBSS).
To connect to a wired network within a coverage area using access points, set the X-550 operation
mode to Infrastructure (BSS). To set up an independent wireless workgroup without an access point,
use Ad-hoc (IBSS) mode.
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
Ad-Hoc (IBSS)
Ad-hoc mode does not require an access point or a wired network. Two or more wireless stations
communicate directly to each other. An ad-hoc network may sometimes be referred to as an
Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS).
Figure 2-1 IBSS Example
To set up an ad-hoc network, configure all wireless stations in ad-hoc network type and
use the same SSID and channel.
Infrastructure (BSS)
When a number of wireless stations are connected using a single AP, you have a Basic Service Set
(BSS).
Figure 2-2 BSS Example
A series of overlapping BSS and a network medium, such as an Ethernet forms an Extended Service
Set (ESS) or infrastructure network. All communication is done through the AP, which relays data
packets to other wireless stations or devices connected to the wired network. Wireless stations can
then access resource, such as the printer, on the wired network.
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
Figure 2-3 Infrastructure Network Example
Roaming
In an infrastructure network, wireless stations are able to switch from one BSS to another as they
move between the coverage areas. During this period, the wireless stations maintain uninterrupted
connection to the network. This is roaming. As the wireless station moves from place to place, it
is responsible for choosing the most appropriate AP depending on the signal strength, network
utilization or other factors.
The following figure depicts a roaming example. When wireless station Bmoves to position X,
the ZyXEL X-550 in wireless station Bautomatically switches the channel to the one used by
access point 2in order to stay connected to the network.
Figure 2-4 Roaming Example
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
Chapter 3
Using the Configuration Menu
This chapter describes how to configure your ZyXEL Router
Whenever you want to configure your X-550, you can access the Configuration Menu by opening the
Web-browser and typing in the IP Address of the X-550. The X-550’s default IP Address is
http://192.168.10.1
• Open the Web browser.
• Type in the IP Address of the Router (http://192.168.10.1).
Figure 3-1 ADVANCED – Wireless
If you have changed the default IP Address assigned to the X-550, make sure to
enter the correct IP Address.
• Select admin in the User Name field.
*if this is your first time configuring your X-550, the default user will already be admin
• Type in 1234 in the Password field.
1234 is the factory default password
• Click Login to proceed into the Configuration Menu of the X-550
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ZyXEL X-550 User’s Guide
3.1 BASIC
The Basic tab provides the following configuration options:
• Start *brings you back to the Wizard and Introductions page
• WAN *allows you to manually configure your WAN settings
• LAN *allows you to manually configure your LAN settings
• DHCP *allows you to manually input DHCP settings
• Wireless *allows you to manually configure your WLAN settings
3.1.1 Setup Wizards
Figure 3-2 Setup Wizard
INTERNET CONECTION SETUP WIZARD
The on-board wizard guides you through the following basic router setup steps:
• Set your Password
• Select your Time Zone • Configure your Internet Connection • Save your Settings and Connect to the Internet
WIRELESS SECURITY SETUP WIZARD
This guides you through the steps for setting up wireless security in your wireless network:
• Name your Wireless Network • Secure your Wireless Network
• Set your Wireless Security Key
3-2