Apple MB321LL User Guide - Page 66

Using the AirPort Extreme Base Station This section describes the different network interfaces of the AirPort Extreme Base Station and describes the functions the base station can provide. Base Station Interfaces To configure the AirPort Extreme Base Station, you configure how its networking interfaces will be used. The AirPort Extreme Base Station has five hardware networking interfaces: • AirPort interface The AirPort interface creates an AirPort network for AirPort- equipped computers to join. The base station can provide IP services like DHCP and NAT over this interface. The base station cannot use the AirPort interface to establish a connection with the Internet. • Modem (W) interface The modem interface is used to establish PPP connections to the Internet. These connections provide IP services to the base station. (Available on some models.) • Ethernet WAN ( ) interface The Ethernet WAN interface is used to connect DSL or cable modems and connect to the Internet. • Ethernet LAN (G) interface The Ethernet LAN interface provides IP services to local Ethernet clients. • USB ( ) interface The USB interface is used to connect a USB printer to the AirPort Extreme Base Station. AirPort interface Ethernet (WAN) port Ethernet (LAN) port Internal modem port (on some models) USB printer port Base Station Functions • Bridge The AirPort Extreme Base Station is configured by default as a bridge between the wireless AirPort network and the wired Ethernet network. Connecting an AirPort network to an Ethernet network through the base station Ethernet LAN (G) port bridges the wireless AirPort network to the wired Ethernet network. 66 Chapter 5 Behind the Scenes