Description: This article outlines the network requirements. These requirements will work hand in hand with the Network Whitelist article.
Ethernet Connections
1. Connection speed
Best practice is using Gigabit switches with Cat6 cables. If using dummy switches, make sure they can support 100 Mbps. If using Elo devices make sure that dummy switches are allowed on the network. The Q25 gets access to the Elo device through a dummy switch.
2. Number of ports per terminal
Most of our devices only require 1 port as they come with their own hub. It should be noted that the Elo kiosks and L1400s using the Q25 will have separate card readers that still require their own IP address, but they will connect to a hub that comes with the devices. L1400s using the ICD (front facing device) will share internet connection with the L1400 through USB but it will still have it’s own address.
a. Please verify that all ports are open and working. Our team does not tone ports and are dependent on customer IT teams to troubleshoot port and network issues.
3. IP addresses
E700s (and their connected Q20 card reader) can use DHCP. Elo kiosks and L1400s can use DHCP but their attached card readers will require either a static address or reserved IP based on their MAC address. If using reserved IP in DHCP, it will be easier to update if you ever need to change card readers as they will only require changing the MAC address whereas static addresses will need to be changed on the device and in the VenueNext platform in order for both devices to talk to each other. The only downside to using reserved IP is that if there is any interruption on the device, it will take a second to pull the address from the server, so it could cause some delays.
Wifi
1. VLAN
Ethernet and Wifi should be on the same VLAN, preferably a dedicated VLAN for the point of sale. Some devices may require talking to each other (like a kiosk and it’s card reader or if using Xpedite devices with remote printers) and we will need to make sure that they are on the same network with a subnet allowing multiple ranges to communicate (if using more than just the 4th octet for your IP range).
2. Security
All devices on Wifi require WPA2 encryption for PCI compliance. Handheld devices will not operate on open wifi.
3. Coverage
WiFi range will need to be tested at all stands and verified that a stable connection can be used. If using the same traffic as open wifi, will need to be verified that speeds remain consistent during events. Sharing traffic with other networks can cause devices and transactions to slow down as they are web based.
Cellular
1. Carriers
Currently, our devices only run on T-Mobile. This will be expanded to accept AT&T in the near future.
2. Volume on events
As with Wifi volume, cellular usage can be slowed down during events if you don’t have any cell boosters. Since the VN product runs on web connections, this can slow devices and transactions.
Comments
0 comments
Please sign in to leave a comment.