What is PPPoE?

PPP is the Point-to-Point Protocol, which encapsulates data packets for transmission over a packet network. PPPoE encapsulates data packets for secure transmssion over an Ethernet network.

Broadband transmissions (DSL or cable) require Ethernet links. However, Ethernet does not offer ISPs the security and network control that ordinary modem connections provide (using PPP). Therefore most ISPs implement PPP over Ethernet with user log-on and password authentication.

If you are utilising DSL for Internet connections, then more than likely you will have to use PPPoE for public IP address assignment from your ISP. Other options are DHCP or static IP addresses, though some ISPs only use PPPoE.

When Safepipe’s Internet access is to be allocated using PPPoE, the ISP must issue a user ID and password to it. Safepipe can then 'dial up' the ISP’s RADIUS server for authentication. If access is allowed, an IP address will be issued. Each 'dial up' results in a new IP address unless arrangements are made with the ISP to use the same IP address each time.

For a tunnel connection between two Safepipes, wherein one Safepipe uses PPPoE’s dynamic IP addressing, the other Safepipe must have a static IP address. The Safepipe with the dynamic IP address must always initiate the tunnel.