ZyXEL Communications PLA-407 User Manual

Chapter 1 Introducing the PLA-407

PLA-407 User’s Guide

You use two types of passwords in the HomePlug AV Powerline network. The 
following table describes the differences between the passwords.

The ENCRYPT feature automatically sets up security on your Powerline network. 
Use this feature if your Powerline devices have the ENCRYPT button. 

If your devices do not have the ENCRYPT button, use the PLA-4xx Series 
Configuration Utility to set up security on the PLA-407. Although the PLA-407 is 
a “plug-and-play” network expanding solution there are several reasons for 
enabling security on the Powerline network in your home.

It’s easy and only requires you to change a network name.

It’s a good idea to ensure privacy of your communication. When you use the PLA-
407 and other Powerline adapters, the Powerline wiring in your home becomes an 
extension of your Ethernet network. Your network traffic flows freely within the 
electrical outlets of your home and is bounded in most cases by a power meter. 

Without security (encryption) your information is accessible to anyone using a 
Powerline adapter on the same electrical circuit. In some cases, a circuit can be 
shared by more than one household.

To prevent compromising your network security, you can create a private 
network. A private network uses a secret password (Network Name) to make 
sure that only permitted Powerline adapters can communicate in your network. 
See 

 for information on setting up a private network.

Table 1   Password Summary

Network Name

All Powerline adapters that follow the HomePlug AV 
standard are shipped with the same Powerline network 
name “HomePlugAV”. Change the network name via the 
PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility to create a private 
network. See 

DAK (Data 
Access Key) 
Password

In order to manage the Powerline adapters on your 
Powerline network you must enter the adapters’ DAK 
password in the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility. 
This password is printed on the Powerline adapter itself. 

You don’t need to add the password for the Powerline 
adapter directly connected to the computer running the 
configuration utility (local Powerline adapter), you only 
have to add the remote Powerline adapters’ passwords 
(those on your circuit, but not directly connected to your 
computer).