Overview
VSNetworks media systems receive automatic software and dynamic content updates over the Internet. There are three options for connecting the VSNetworks media systems to the Internet:
- A non-Spectrio WiFi access point, configured with the required security settings (WPA2-PSK [AES] or WPA2-PSK [TKIP]).
- Wired Ethernet.
- A preconfigured WiFi access point provided by Spectrio (no longer available).
Connectivity Options
WiFi Access Point
Most 802.11 b/g/n Access Points (APs) will work with Spectrio media systems. We recommend using a business-class AP (Cisco, Ruckus, Aruba, Meraki, Aerohive, etc.). These systems typically operate more reliably with heavy network loads and have better response to network interference.
Spectrio doesn’t recommend using preconfigured guest WiFI. These networks are designed to limit available bandwidth and periodically disconnect to prevent users from stealing the Internet. It’s recommended that you set up a dedicated SSID for Spectrio VSNetworks systems.
You’ll need to use the Control Panel on the media systems to enter network diagnostics. See the Product Manual for details or contact Spectrio support for assistance with configuring devices.
Wired Ethernet
Wired Ethernet is typically the most reliable method and is recommended. However, routing an Ethernet cable to each media system is not always practical. In these cases, wireless is the fallback solution. If a site has reliable wireless with business-grade equipment (Cisco, Ruckus, Aruba, Meraki, Aerohive, etc.), using it for the media system is recommended. In the absence of such a network, a Spectrio-supplied Wi-Fi AP is preferred.
All media systems have an RJ45 Ethernet jack. When plugged into an active network, the media system will use this connection over a wireless connection. Due to the lack of interference and simpler equipment required, a wired connection is normally considered more reliable than a wireless connection.
Spectrio WiFi Access Point
Note: This option is no longer available.
The WiFi access points provided by Spectrio are specifically programmed for VSNetworks media systems; it isn’t possible to use them as a general-purpose WiFi access point. Don’t attempt to perform a factory reset on a pre-configured access point as the VSNetworks media systems will no longer be able to connect to the Internet. This would render the system unable to update software and dynamic content.
The WiFi access points provided by Spectrio use the WPA2-PSK [AES] security protocol. VSNetworks media systems ship with the security key pre-loaded, no configuration is required. WiFi access points do not broadcast their SSID.
DHCP
A local DHCP server is required for VSNetworks media system devices to obtain an IP address. If a Spectrio access point is used, the access point will obtain one address from the DHCP server and will provide IP addresses in a private range for the VSNetworks media systems. If a VSNetworks media system is connected to a non-Spectrio WiFi access point or via wired Ethernet, each player will request an IP address from the DHCP server.
Firewall
VSNetworks media systems communicate over ports 80, 443, and 2209. These ports must be open for outbound on a user's firewall. If these ports aren’t open, VSNetworks media systems won’t be able to communicate with Spectrio's monitoring and update servers. Refer to the following table for specific host/port details.
| Address | Ports | Protocols | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 66.109.240.130 | 80, 443, 2209 | TCP | Outbound |
| 66.109.240.131 | 80, 443, 2209 | TCP | Outbound |
| 66.109.240.132 | 80, 443, 2209 | TCP | Outbound |
| 66.109.240.133 | 80, 443, 2209 | TCP | Outbound |
| 66.109.240.134 | 80, 443, 2209 | TCP | Outbound |
| 66.109.247.70 | 80, 443, 2209 | TCP | Outbound |
| 8.8.8.8 | 53 | TCP, UDP | Outbound |
| (All) | 80, 443 | TCP | Outbound |
Note: To verify that port 2209 is open for outbound traffic, connect a PC to the network of your VSNetworks media system and enter this address: http://check.vs-networks.com:2209/. If port 2209 is open for outbound traffic, you will see the Spectrio website – normally accessed via https://www.vs-networks.com/.
For questions or concerns, please reach out to our Support Team at support@spectrio.com.