Introduction

WAN (Wide Area Network) ports are a crucial interface on industrial cellular routers, enabling external network connectivity and advanced functions. This article examines the key roles of the WAN port on the Yeaplink SR500 industrial cellular router.

Providing Internet Access

One of the primary uses of the WAN port is connecting the router to the Internet. On the SR500, the WAN port is a Gigabit Ethernet interface supporting cable connection to a broadband modem. This allows the router and any attached devices to access the public Internet for remote management.

Enabling Inter-Network Routing

The WAN port, combined with the SR500’s LAN ports, facilitates routing between different networks. For example, the WAN can connect to a corporate network while the LAN connects to industrial devices. The router then routes data between these networks, integrating plant floor equipment with enterprise systems.

Leveraging Wired Broadband

In locations with wired broadband infrastructure like fiber or DSL, the WAN port can utilize it for primary connectivity. Wired broadband offers higher speeds and reliability compared to wireless links like 4G LTE. The SR500 supports Gigabit Ethernet WAN speeds for high bandwidth applications.

Providing Backup Connectivity

The SR500 can use the WAN port as a backup link to improve overall network availability. For instance, the main Internet connection may use the built-in 4G modem. But if that link fails, the router can automatically switch to a wired WAN connection. This redundancy minimizes the impact of any single points of failure.

Connecting to Private WANs

Another important application of the WAN port is connecting to private wide area networks. Many industrial deployments use private WANs for security and quality of service. The SR500 WAN interface can connect to private networks via technologies like MPLS. This establishes a dedicated high-speed link between facilities or to a central data center.

Terminating VPN Connections

The WAN port allows the SR500 Two Port 4G Router to terminate virtual private network (VPN) connections. VPNs create secure encrypted tunnels between networks over the Internet. The SR500 supports multiple VPN protocols on the WAN port including IPsec, OpenVPN, and L2TP. This enables seamless interfacing with corporate VPNs and secure remote access.

Linking to Other Network Hardware

As an Ethernet port, the WAN interface can attach to a variety of other networking equipment. Connecting the WAN to an Ethernet switch expands wired connectivity for more end devices. Linking the WAN to another router enables advanced topologies and redundant connections.

Serving as an Additional LAN

While designated as a “WAN” port, this interface on the SR500 cellular router can alternatively act as an extra LAN port. Configured in LAN mode, the port allows connecting additional devices on the local network. This flexibility adapts the router to diverse use cases and scalability requirements.

Conclusion

The WAN port on industrial cellular routers like the Yeaplink SR500 enables essential connectivity features for industrial IoT. From basic Internet access to VPNs and link backup, the WAN port provides critical functionality. Vendors continue to evolve WAN interfaces to meet the growing demands of industrial network transformation.