How Does IP Passthrough Work on Industrial Router？

In industrial networking, reliable and efficient connectivity is critical for managing systems and devices. Industrial routers often include a feature called IP passthrough, which enables a connected device to communicate directly with the external network using a public IP address. But how does IP passthrough work on an industrial router? This blog will explore the concept, explain how it works, highlight its advantages, and provide practical tips for setting it up.

What is IP Passthrough?

IP passthrough is a networking feature that allows an industrial router to assign its public IP address directly to a connected device, bypassing the router’s local network IP allocation. Normally, routers use NAT (Network Address Translation) to assign private IPs to devices on the local network. However, with IP passthrough, the router “passes through” the public IP address to a single device, such as a server, computer, or industrial controller.

This feature is particularly useful for applications that require direct access to the internet or a public IP for specific functions, such as remote management or VPN configurations.

How Does IP Passthrough Work?

To understand how doesIP passthrough work, it helps to know how routers typically operate. Routers assign private IP addresses to devices on the local network and use NAT to translate those private IPs into a public IP for internet communication.

When IP passthrough is enabled:

1. The router’s NAT function is bypassed for one specific device.
2. The router assigns its public IP address, obtained from the ISP, directly to the selected device.
3. The chosen device communicates with the internet using the public IP as if it were directly connected to the modem.
4. Other devices on the network continue to use private IP addresses managed by the router.

By enabling IP passthrough, the router essentially acts as a bridge between the ISP and the designated device.

What is the Advantage of IP Passthrough?

There are several advantages to using IP passthrough in industrial networks:

1. Direct Internet Access: The designated device can use the public IP directly without interference from the router’s NAT.
2. Improved VPNConnectivity: Some VPN configurations require a public IP to function efficiently, which IP passthrough provides.
3. Eliminates Double NAT: When multiple routers are present, double NAT can cause connectivity issues. IP passthrough avoids this problem by bypassing NAT for a single device.
4. Remote Device Management: Devices such as industrial servers or monitoring systems can be accessed directly over the internet for real-time management.
5. Hosting Services: IP passthrough is ideal for devices hosting applications, as it allows external users to connect directly without additional configuration.

By using IP passthrough, industrial networks can simplify connectivity and improve performance for critical devices.

When Do We Need IP Passthrough?

IP passthrough is necessary in several key scenarios:

• Remote Access: Devices like industrial controllers, cameras, or servers require public IPs for external access.
• VPN Connections: If a device needs to establish a VPN tunnel, a public IP helps avoid NAT complications and ensures seamless operation.
• Double NAT Elimination: In networks with multiple routers, enabling IP passthrough prevents double NAT issues that can interrupt communication.
• Hosting Industrial Services: For applications like SCADA servers, data hosting, or IoT gateways, IP passthrough allows smooth access from outside the network.

In short, IP passthrough is needed when a specific device requires public IP access for seamless communication.

Is IP Passthrough Safe?

The safety of IP passthrough depends on proper security measures. By bypassing the router’s NAT, the connected device becomes directly accessible from the public internet. This can expose it to potential cyber threats.

To keep IP passthrough safe:

• Use a Firewall: Ensure the connected device has a firewall to block unauthorized access.
• Enable Security Features: Use strong passwords, encryption, and updated firmware.
• Restrict Access: Allow only trusted IPs to communicate with the device.
• Monitor Traffic: Regularly monitor device activity to detect any unusual behavior.

With proper configuration and security practices, IP passthrough can be used safely in industrial environments.

What is Passthrough Mode?

Passthrough mode refers to the router’s ability to pass the public IP address directly to a single connected device while bypassing NAT. In this mode:

• The router acts as a bridge.
• One specific device receives the public IP address.
• Other devices on the network still use private IPs assigned by the router.

Passthrough mode is essentially the same as IP passthrough, enabling direct communication between the designated device and the public internet.

How Do I Set Up IP Passthrough on My Industrial Router?

Setting up IP passthrough on an industrial router is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Access the Router Settings: Log in to the router’s web-based interface using its IP address.
2. Locate IP Passthrough: Find the IP passthrough option under the WAN or LAN settings.
3. Assign the Device: Choose the MAC address or hostname of the device that will receive the public IP.
4. Save the Configuration: Apply the settings and restart the router to enable IP passthrough.
5. Verify the IP Address: Check the connected device to ensure it has obtained the public IP address.

Refer to your router’s manual for model-specific instructions.

Tips for Setting Up IP Passthrough

• Reserve the MAC Address: Assign the public IP to the device’s MAC address to avoid conflicts.
• DisableDHCP for Passthrough: Ensure the connected device can receive the public IP directly.
• Enable Security: Use firewalls and encryption to protect the device.
• Test Connectivity: Verify that the device can send and receive data properly.
• Monitor Performance: Regularly check network performance to ensure stability.

Following these tips will help ensure a smooth setup and operation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)