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# Introduction

Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Configuration Interfaces
Chapter 3: Configuring WAN Access
Chapter 4: Configuring Individual WAN Connections
Chapter 5: Configuring Frame Relay
Chapter 6: Configuring X.25
Chapter 7: Configuring IP Routing
Chapter 8: Configuring OSPF Routing
Chapter 9: Configuring IPX Routing
Chapter 10: AppleTalk Routing
Chapter 11: Configuring Packet Bridging
Chapter 12: Setting Up IP Multicast Forwarding
Chapter 13: Setting Up Virtual Private Networks
Chapter 14: Defining Static Filters

The MAX links a Local Area Network (LAN) to a Wide Area Network (WAN). The LAN might comprise a few workstations, a large number of workstations and servers, or any number of interconnected networks. WAN connections provide links between the LAN and virtually any site or network.

The MAX provides multiple interfaces for your use in implementing your configuration. Considerations for development of your WAN configuration include the number of remote users who need access to your LAN, the types of telecommunications lines and services your carrier can provide, and the specific MAX model you have purchased. WAN connections have traditionally been either physically dedicated (nailed) from end to end or dial-up (switched). Frame Relay, which provides the benefits of nailed connections but with greater flexibility, is becoming increasingly popular. X.25 networks are predominant in Europe.

Although the MAX has a large number of features, you might only have to configure a few of them, depending on what you want the MAX to do. Almost all applications require configuration of IP routing. You can use Routing Information Protocol (RIP) or the newer Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) protocol, which addresses many of RIP's limitations. If you have Novell Netware clients and servers, you can configure the MAX for Internetwork Packet eXchange (IPX) routing. Similarly, you can configure it for AppleTalk routing. If you need to use a protocol that cannot be routed, the MAX supports transparent bridging as an alternative.

If you need to send data-intensive information to multiple users simultaneously, you can significantly reduce traffic flow by setting up your network to support multicast forwarding. If you have many remote clients who need secure connections to the home network, a tunneling protocol, such as ATMP, PPTP, or L2TP, can provide virtual private connections over a public network.

You can define filters to customize the way the MAX handles individual packets of data. If you do not implement dynamic filtering by means of a firewall such as an Ascend SecureConnect firewall, you should probably define a filter on the MAX to provide rudimentary security. You can also define filters to prevent unnecessary connections and to clear idle connections.

Copyright © 1998, Ascend Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.