Setting Up Remote Access on the Rockwell Stratix 4300 Switch using Wireless Option

This video tutorial demonstrates how to set up remote access on the Rockwell Automation Stratix 4300 using a wireless connection. It guides viewers through the process of configuring the device's IP address, username, password, and networking options via the web interface. Key steps include enabling the WAN web server, setting up routing and internet sharing, and configuring server connections with physical triggers. The video also covers using the Remote Access Manager to register the device, monitor connections, and manage VPN settings. LED indicators are explained to ensure successful configuration and remote access.

Step 1: Hardware Setup

1. Power Up the Stratix 4300:

   • Ensure the Stratix 4300 switch is powered on and connected to your network.

2. Access the Web Interface:

   • Open a web browser and enter the default IP address 192.168.0.1 (this can be found on the nameplate of the unit).

   • Log in using the default username and password (also provided on the nameplate).

   • Upon first login, you will be prompted to change the default password. It is essential to update this for security purposes.

Step 2: Update IP Address and Password

1. Change the IP Address:

   • Navigate to the Interfaces tab in the web interface.

   • Set the WAN interface to DHCP or assign a static IP address if required. The default setting is DHCP, but a static IP ensures your remote access connection is consistent even after power cycles.

   • For this demo, we have changed the IP to 192.168.1.43.

2. Change the Password:

   • After updating the password and IP, reboot the device.

3. Re-Login:

   • Once the reboot is complete, log in again using the new IP address (192.168.1.43) and updated password.

Step 3: Configure General Settings

1. Enable WAN Web Server:

   • In the General tab, enable the WAN Web Server option. This allows remote access to the device’s configuration interface from within the facility.

2. Adjust LAN Settings:

   • Ensure only one LAN address is assigned to avoid potential network issues.

3. Networking Configuration:

   • Under the Networking tab, enable Internet sharing, NAT, and configure routing rules as necessary for your network.

4. Configure Remote Access Server:

   • In the Server Connection section, check the status of the cloud server.

   • For added security, you can enable remote access using a physical trigger, such as a button or PLC output, connected to the terminal block on top of the unit.

Step 4: User and Diagnostics Configuration

1. Add Users:

   • Under the Users tab, create and manage users who will have access to the system.

2. Network Diagnostics:

   • Use the Diagnostics tab for network tools like PING to test connectivity.

Step 5: LED Indicator Status

1. LED Indicators:

   • The Stratix 4300 features several LEDs to show status:

     • Power Light: Indicates the unit is powered on.

     • Server Light: Flashing when not configured, solid green when configured.

     • Remote Connection Light: Solid green when remote access is active.

     • WiFi/Cellular Lights: Indicate wireless or cellular connection status.

     • Ethernet Lights: Show connection status for each port.

2. Check LED Lights:

   • Confirm that the Server Light turns solid green after configuring the unit.

   • The Remote Connection Light should also be solid green once the local connection is verified.

Step 6: Configure Remote Access Manager

1. Install Remote Access Tools:

   • Ensure the Remote Access tools are installed on your PC. You can download them from the Tools > Download section in the Remote Access Manager.

2. Add Device in Remote Access Manager:

   • Open Remote Access Manager and select Add Device > Add Device Locally.

   • If a prompt for credentials doesn’t appear, ensure the Remote Access tools are installed.

   • Enter the user credentials you set up during the device configuration.

3. MAC Address Registration:

   • Once logged in, the MAC address of the WAN/WiFi/Cellular interface will appear.

   • Select the MAC address and enter a name for the device. This will enable the Register button and add the device under the domain view for your Remote Access organization.

Step 7: Monitor Remote Access Connection

1. Connection Status:

   • Once the device is successfully added, it will appear with a green icon in Remote Access Manager, indicating that it is connected and visible.

   • If the icon turns gray, it means the device is no longer visible to Remote Access Manager.

2. VPN Connection:

   • If both LAN and WAN are enabled, selecting the VPN option will assign an IP address in the private network, visible on the VPN screen.

3. Device Information and Logs:

   • In the VPN interface, you can view device information, connection status, and logs to troubleshoot if needed.

Conclusion:

After completing the steps above, the Stratix 4300 should be fully configured for remote access using the wireless option. You can now monitor and manage the device via the Remote Access Manager.