Ways To Manage The Pla4201; Security; Passwords; Setting Up Security - ZyXEL Communications PLA4201 User Manual

Chapter 1 Introducing the PLA4201
Refer to your Quick Start Guide for hardware connection information.

1.3 Ways to Manage the PLA4201

Use the RESET/ENCRYPT button to add powerline devices to your powerline network if they have
this button. See
Use the PLA42xx Series Configuration Utility (or utility, for short) to manage the PLA4201. See
Section 2.2 on page 10
Note: This User's Guide describes the latest version utility. This utility is only compatible
with a PLA4201 which has the latest firmware installed. If you don't already have
them, download the latest firmware and utility from the ZyXEL website.

1.4 Security

Since your powerline network may extend outside your premises, it is important to set up security
on your PLA4201.

1.4.1 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
Network Name
DAK (Data Access Key)
Password

1.4.2 Setting Up Security

The ENCRYPT feature automatically sets up security on your powerline network. Use this feature if
your powerline devices have the RESET/ENCRYPT button.
If your devices do not have the RESET/ENCRYPT button, use the PLA42xx Series
Configuration Utility to set up security on the PLA4201. Although the PLA4201 is a "plug-and-
play" network expanding solution there are several reasons for enabling security on the powerline
network in your home.
8
Chapter 3 on page 17 for instructions on using the ENCRYPT feature.
for instructions on installing the utility.
DESCRIPTION
All powerline adapters that follow the HomePlug AV standard are shipped with the
same powerline network name "HomePlugAV". Change the network name via the
PLA42xx Series Configuration Utility to create a private network. See
4.3 on page 24.
In order to manage the powerline adapters on your powerline network you must
enter the adapters' DAK password in the PLA42xx 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).
Section
PLA4201 User's Guide