ZyXEL PLA4201 PLA4201-EU0201F Manual Do Utilizador

Chapter 1 Introducing the PLA4201

PLA4201 User’s Guide

Refer to your Quick Start Guide for hardware connection information. 

Use the RESET/ENCRYPT button to add powerline devices to your powerline network if they have 
this button. See 

 for instructions on using the ENCRYPT feature.

Use the PLA42xx Series Configuration Utility (or utility, for short) to manage the PLA4201. See 

 for instructions on installing the utility.

Note: This User’s Guide describes the latest version utility. This utility is only compatible 

with a PLA4201 which has the latest firmware installed. If you don’t already have 

them, download the latest firmware and utility from the ZyXEL website.

Since your powerline network may extend outside your premises, it is important to set up security 
on your PLA4201.

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 RESET/ENCRYPT button. 

If your devices do not have the RESET/ENCRYPT button, use the PLA42xx Series 
Configuration Utility to set up security on the PLA4201. Although the PLA4201 is a “plug-and-
play” network expanding solution there are several reasons for enabling security on the powerline 
network in your home.

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 
PLA42xx 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 PLA42xx 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).