Disclaimer: I cannot recall the original source for this...use at your own risk. I have had no problems however.
Q: What is the proper way to configure a Westell modem with most generic routers? (#6324)
A: This FAQ is for general information about setting up a BellSouth configured Westell 2100 (Model A90-210030-04) with most of the popular DSL routers available today.
This FAQ has 3 Major sections:
· Overview
· Westell modem configuration
· General router configuration information
· Connections and power up
Section 1 - Overview
· The best configuration for networking a router with the Westell 2100 is to set the Westell to "Bridged Ethernet" mode and allow the router to do the routing and DHCP functions. The Westell is also a router with full DHCP functions and may not function correctly when connected directly to another router. If the Westell is not put into "Bridged Ethernet" mode you may experience double NAT'ing and possibly cause IP conflicts. Before proceeding both the modem and router should be set to default.
· You must connect the Westell directly to the computer's NIC to make the necessary changes before you connect the router, because you will unable to access the modem interface after you connect the router. The reason is that the modem interface is 192.168.1.254 which is a local IP. By default, most routers do not have the capability to route a local IP out of their WAN port (where your Westell is connected). There are several ways around this problem, but they involve extra equipment or major configuration changes. After you have made the changes to the Westell you can then connect the router and configure it for use with FastAccess.
Section 2 - Westell Configuration
Step 1
Make sure the power is completely removed from the Westell and the computer. Connect the Westell directly to the NIC and power up the modem and then the computer. Reset the Westell modem using he reset button.
Step 2
Open a browser session to access the Westell Interface and enter "192.168.1.254" or "launch modem" in the address field. If you are unable to access the interface make sure your NIC is set to obtain an IP address automatically". This may require you to reboot the computer (or release/renew) to obtain a proper IP.
Image available here.
Step 3
Click on Expert Mode from the menu and confirm that you want to enter Expert Mode.
Step 4
Click on Configure from the menu and then Connection in the sub-menu. Select "Bridged Ethernet" from the Protocol pull down. Select "Always On" from the Connection Type pull down. Changing the Connection Type is not required, but recommended. Click on Save and restart the connection at the bottom. This will automatically restart the modem and the interface will return after the changes are saved. Note: functions like the NAT, IP Passthrough, and username and password are disabled and can not be selected. After the modem has restarted, power down both the computer and the modem then physically disconnect the Westell.
Section 3 - General Router Information
Step 5
After the PC is powered down connect one of the router's LAN ports to the computer NIC and power up the router and then the computer. Reset the router to default by using the reset button (if available).
Step 6
Open a browser session to access the router interface as per that particular router's user guide. Even though the interface will vary from router to router you must make the following changes:
- Select Obtain an IP address automatically.
- Select PPPoE connectivity.
- Enter your BellSouth Username followed by "@bellsouth.net".
- Enter your BellSouth Password.
- Select "Keep Alive" or "Always On" (if available)
- Save your settings (which will probably restart your router).
Image available here .
Section 4 - Connections and Power Up
Step 7
Power everything down and physically connect the Westell, the router, and any computer(s).
Step 8
Power up the network equipment in this order:
· Westell Modem (wait for DSL synch)
· External Router
· Computer(s)
Open a browser session and go surfing!
Step 9
You may want to recheck your tweak settings in order to optimize your new network. Reminder: If you are required to change your MTU, make sure that it is identical on all equipment (PCs and routers) in the network.
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