Feature-Rich VPN Router Migrates Legacy Networks to IP, Connects Both Old and New Terminals - Wired or Wireless

PDF Version

An additional, dedicate supervisory port allows local access to the configuration and management functions.
The ILR-100 is a compete router with all the Internet protocols and management features needed for branch office, retail, and remote sites. It contains a statefull firewall and packet filter to reduce susceptibility to many common attacks. This router adapts to and support the second migration, when pure-IP devices replace the legacy termi-nals and hosts--the ILR-100 will continue to provide secure connectivity.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE ENCRYPTION
Dedicated encryption hardware - included as standard in the -E, -C, and -G models - speeds the processing to minimize added latency and to avoid loading down the main CPU when operating in an encryption VPN. As an added benefit, the ILR-100 can handle key distribution automatically, via the Internet Key Exchange (IKE) protocol. Keys may be assigned manually as well.

EASY INSTALLATION AND MANAGEMENT
Configuration files set all parameters for the operation of the ILR-100. These files may be backed up to a server, for later download to the router via TFTP. The same process of downloading a file is one way to set up a new ILR-100.

Standard protocols such as Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) and bootP simplify IP connectivity when routing is enabled (the default condition). Static IP addresses may be assigned manually.

Configuration for legacy protocols on the serial port can be done from the menu-driven interface on the supervisory port, via a Telnet connection to the same interface, through SNMP (MIB-II), as well as by downloading a config file. All of the supported protocols and their spoofing variants are available in one version of the ELIOS firmware.

Passwords protect three management levels, regardless of the operator’s access path. That is, an operator uses the same password and has the same permission level whether plugged into the supervisory port or connecting via Telnet over the IP connection.

DIVERSIFIED APPLICATIONS
With the full set of legacy functions and all WAN options available by configuration from the same load of the ELIOS firmware, the ILR-100 offers carriers and system integrators great flexibility from a reduced inventory. The same branch router adapts ALC, poll/select, X.25, X.42, QLLC, VISA-II, SNA/SDLC, bisync, and others to any standard IP network.

With true protocol conversion, and not just encapsulation, the ILR-100 can isolate legacy protocols at the remote sites where older terminals have not been replaced. The IP traffic is compatible with applications on mainframes and servers with IP interfaces. An im-portant example is “NCP bypass” where the ILR-100 protocol conversion eliminates the need for the Network Control Protocol software - and Front End Processors.

CONSISTENT MIGRATION PROCESS
While applications vary, the migration procedure remains consistent across many types of leased line networks.
The current legacy network may be built on leased point-to-point or multidrop lines. The data format may be as old as bisync and ALC or as new as frame relay, with X.25, X.42, and QLLC in between. The ELIOS firmware can handle both polled and client-server protocols.

Step 1 is to deploy the IP service to a site and install the ILR-100. The service may be provisioned over copper loop or cellular wire-less, depending on availability and cost at each location. The ILR-100 works with DSL, cable modem, or any other IP service. Wireless modules are available for carrier cellular networks based on CDMA or GSM.

Step 2 (in parallel with step 1) is to configure the host site for IP access. Encore has equipment to convert the IP packets from the network back to the appropriate legacy protocol if necessary, or the host may gain an IP interface.

Step 3 moves individual terminals from the old network to the ILR-100 serial port. Note that it is not necessary to flash cut all terminals on the same multidrop line at once.

After a network location migrates to IP over cellular wireless for legacy terminals, the addition of new IP devices (replacement terminals or additional equipment) at that site involves only a simple Ethernet connection to the ILR-100. Both legacy and IP terminals may share the cellular connection.