Designing Weblinx Systems; Choosing The Operating System; Using Pws Or Iis Web Server; Internet Browser Program - AMX WebLinx Instruction Manual

Designing WebLinx Systems

The WebLinx System is comprised of the Administrator program, the WebLinx Server, a Web
Server (PWS or IIS), and either an Axcess Central Controller (including external equipment) or
NetLinx Central controller and associated NetLinx hardware, and a PC(s) connected and
communicating via the Internet, LAN, or WAN topologies using Internet Explorer (IE).

Choosing the Operating System

The first consideration is the operating system. A good rule to follow is use your computer's current
operating system, if you are using Windows 98, Windows 2000 Professional, or Windows NT
workstation or server. If using another OS, you must upgrade or change operating systems to work
with WebLinx. The following table lists OS's you can use along with the compatible Web Servers,
and NIC configuration requirements to design a secure WebLinx system.
Operating Systems
Operating Systems
Windows 98
Windows 2000 Professional IIS
Windows 2000 Server
Windows NT Workstation
Windows NT Server

Using PWS or IIS Web Server

The OS selected determines which Web server must be used. Both the PWS and IIS are relatively
easy to install and set up using the information supplied by Microsoft. The Web server programs
can be downloaded free from Microsoft's Web site (www.microsoft.com).
Once the OS is selected, refer to the table above to see which Web Server program and NIC
configuration to use. Using a single or dual NIC configuration allows designing a secure network
that cannot be easily accessed by hackers.

Internet Browser Program

Microsoft IE (4.0 or higher) is used because it offers more flexibility for Dynamic HTML
application. Thus, it is the required Internet browser for the WebLinx programs. The IE program is
free and can be downloaded from Microsoft's Web site.

SOHO Considerations (NIC requirements)

When installing the WebLinx system in a Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) environment, follow
these communication considerations to ensure the installed WebLinx system is secure.
Ultimately, the target PC running both the WebLinx Server and Web Server programs is Windows
NT (Workstation or Server) Windows 98, or a Windows 2000 OS. Even though the NIC
configuration for these OS's varies, you must configure the PC with one static or DHCP IP address
(supplied by your ISP) to communicate with the outside world, and a second IP address that cannot
WebLinx Administrator Program
Compatible Web Single NIC
Servers Configuration
PWS No
Yes
IIS Yes
PWS Yes
IIS Yes
Designing WebLinx Systems
Dual NIC
Configuration
Yes
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
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