NXU-2A Operations Manual
Interoperability Now! 6-3
access the Internet, as there is no point in tying up an IP address when it’s not being used.
There are plans for an upgraded IP addressing system that will fix the problem of too few IP
addresses, but for now it is a limitation we must live with.
What kind of IP address does the NXU-2A need?
NXU-2As are configured to be either a client (the one that establishes the connection) or a
server (the one that accepts the connection.) The client can have either a static or a dynamic IP
address, but the server MUST have a static IP address. However, it is best if both units have
static IP addresses.
Who assigns IP addresses?
For Internet access, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) will assign IP addresses to you. If you
are on a private network, (like a WAN or LAN) then your network administrator will assign IP
addresses. You should never program an IP address into an NXU-2A without checking with
the ISP or network administrator first.
What happens if two NXU-2As have the same IP address (or an NXU-2A has the same
address as some other device)?
Bad things will happen. Well, not bad things, but obviously it will not work properly. Both
units will respond at the same time, causing network errors. The extreme case would be if an
NXU-2A is programmed to have the same IP address as an existing computer on the same
network. This would likely render that computer unusable for network functions, and could
cause other users to have problems as well. The bottom line is that two devices on the same
network cannot share the same IP address.
What is a firewall?
A firewall is a device that prevents people outside of a network from accessing computers of
devices inside the network. It’s a security device. A company firewall prevents incoming
network connections, so no one outside the company can access the company’s computers via
the Internet.
How does a firewall affect the NXU-2A?
A firewall may prevent a connection between two NXU-2As if one is behind the firewall and
the other is not. This may occur if the client unit is outside the firewall as the firewall is
intended to prevent connections initiated from outside the firewall. See subsequent FAQs for
more information.
Should I use a firewall with the NXU-2A?
Strictly speaking from the standpoint of the NXU-2A, there is no reason to use a firewall with
the NXU-2A. The NXU-2A is a stand-along network device which poses minimal security
risks. However, if the network the NXU-2A is on is shared with computers, servers, or other
network devices, then a firewall may be advisable. Talk to your network administrator about
such situations.
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