Control Network Newsletter
Configuring an EIGR-VB Gigabit IP Router as an OpenVPN Server
Contemporary Controls' EIGR-VB Skorpion Gigabit IP router supports OpenVPN® client/server functionality and can be configured as an OpenVPN server easily via its built-in webpages. When configured in OpenVPN server mode, the EIGR-VB can operate as a wired bridge VPN server for single-site, remote access solutions.
The EIGR-VB high-speed router links two 10/100/1000 Mbps Internet Protocol (IPv4) networks — passing appropriate traffic while blocking all other traffic. One network is the local-area-network (LAN); the other is the wide-area-network (WAN). The built-in stateful firewall passes communication initiated on the LAN-side while blocking WAN-side initiated communication.
Operating in OpenVPN server mode, the EIGR-VB can support up to 10 VPN clients (PC/Phone/Tablet). The VPN clients are bridged to the LAN side and are provided an IP address from the LAN subnet which provides the same application experience as if the client device was connected directly to the LAN side. It also allows passage of multicast and broadcast messages through the VPN tunnel. This facilitates remote access for BACnet systems and eliminates the need for a BACnet/IP Broadcast Management Device (BBMD).
Although the EIGR-VB has many of the same features found in high-end routers, it is simpler to install and commission. A resident DHCP server on the LAN-side will provide IP addresses to LAN-side clients, while a DHCP client on the WAN-side will accept IP address assignments from the attached network. Static addressing is accommodated as well. Configuration is via a web browser using authentication.
For detailed steps on how Configure the EIGR-VB to act as a OpenVPN Server, read the Application Note. Visit the EIGR product page to learn more about the Skorpion Gigabit IP router.