Introduction
Core Transit can provide static IP addresses and internet termination services in various situations where a static IP address is otherwise unavailable. The Ethernet Anywhere static IP architecture includes use cases such as mobile locations, locations with no wired connectivity options, or cases where a backup LTE wireless connection is desired. The static IP addresses can also be made available behind service provider carrier-grade NAT (network address translation) gateways or on networks where IP address allocation is dynamic.
Technical Summary
To deliver these services Ethernet Anywhere Edge Lite device builds a tunnel to the Core Transit network. A tunnel is simply data encapsulated and routed over an underlying network in network connectivity. In the diagram below the Edge Lite device on the left builds this tunnel over the underlying network back to a preselected Core Transit data center. In addition to LTE, satellite and broadband internet connections can also serve as redundant paths to Core Transit when needed.
Getting Connected
With an Ethernet Anywhere Edge Lite in place, provisioning a static IP address is easy. Simply plug your router or firewall directly into the designated port on the back of the Edge Lite. Your router will automatically receive the designated IP address provisioned via DHCP reservation. This is done to simplify the onboarding process and allows the end customer to replace their router without needing to deploy a technician to perform a settings change. Typically DHCP is “dynamic” meaning the connecting device is assigned the next available IP address. In the case of Ethernet Anywhere the designated IP address is reserved specifically for your service via DHCP reservation. If your device does not support DHCP, order a /30 IPv4 addon and it can be configured on the link for you alternatively.
IP Routing Designs
DHCP Reservation Assignment
First, the foundational design is to provide a single address reserved for the customer but assigned by DHCP reservation. This allows the customer to swap their routing device behind the Edge Lite without statically reconfiguring it, sending a technician, etc.
DHCP + Single Static Subnet(s)
When ordering addon IP addresses Core Transit can statically route this address space to the IP address that’s assigned to the your router via DHCP. This is done automatically when your router comes online and receives its address. Your customer-owned router can then NAT through these address(es) or assign them to loopback interfaces on their routing device.
DHCP + Assignable Static Address Block
If you have a more complex NAT or address assignment needs, larger address blocks can be routed to the customer’s router as well. In the example below, a customer wanted to assign a /29 within the LAN behind their router.
