FAQ for networking issues associated with setting up a Cortexa. Topics include accessing a Cortexa after you have set a static IP address, and remote access.

Issues after Static IP setup

I've set a static IP on my Cortexa and:


I can’t access my Cortexa anymore.

• Make sure you are typing the new IP address into your browser.
• Make sure you are including the port number after a colon if you have changed the default port.
• Verify the computer you are using to access the Cortexa is on the same subnet as the new IP address.
  
  

I can't get weather data from the internet

• Make sure the gateway is setup correctly on Network Management -> IP Setup page of the configuration.
• Ensure that the DNS servers are correctly populated with your ISP’s DNS servers or a public DNS server.
• See section below on Internet Access

I can not access my Cortexa by typing “cortexa” into my browser anymore.

• Make sure you are including the port number after a colon if you have changed the default port.
• Verify the computer you are using to access the Cortexa is on the same subnet as the new IP address.
• Open your routers configuration and verify the Cortexa is showing up as a network device.
• Not all routers support static IP resolution by device name. Consult your router’s manual or call their support line to verify its support or any additional steps that may need to be taken.

Accessing Cortexa from the Local Area Network

I can not gain access to the Cortexa from within the Local Area Network, what do I need to check to assure connectivity?

• Verify the computer you are using to access the Cortexa is on the same subnet as the Cortexa.
• Make sure you are using the correct IP address of the Cortexa (after applying a static IP, the user will have to manually change the IP address in the address bar)
• Check that the power light on both the power adapter (if included) and the Cortexa are lit.
• Double check all wiring connections for the network cables. If possible, replace the network cable to ensure its not a simple cable failure.

Remote Access

The Cortexa is not remotely accessible from outside the local area network. What could be wrong?

• Port forwarding is not configured correctly.
• Dual NAT - If you have two or more routers (or modem/router combo devices) configured on the same network, this can (and most likely will) cause major problems in address resolution.
• ISP blocking ports - Many ISP’s have taken to blocking port 80 (the default http port that the Cortexa uses for communication). Try calling them and asking if this is the case and if they could kindly unblock it for you.
• ISP's use different networks for backbone of system that conflict with router subnet. (192.168.0.*, 192.168.1.*, 192.168.2.* and 192.168.10.* - if * = .1 and you can access modem, then there maybe a conflict.

How do I configure port forwarding correctly and what can I do to resolve any issues with port forwarding

• See the [[path:kb/NetworkGuide|Cortexa Network Guide] for additional information
• Some routers might have known issues with port forwarding. Contact your router manufacturer or search knowledge bases/forums for possible known issues.

• Contact your ISP. There maybe charges for helping configure port forwarding. With additional info in this FAQ, basic info can be used to setup configuration.

There is a possibility that the modem might have NAT turned on and is acting like a router. Firewall or port blocking by the ISP or by the modem might also prohibit remote access through the internet connection.


Two NAT issue, what can I do

• Remove the second router and use the first NAT device (cable or DSL modem) as a router
• Ask the ISP to turn off NAT on the cable mode/router device.
• Set up a DMZ (see below)

How can I use DMZ to get through two NAT devices

• A DMZ can be used to effectively assign ALL incoming ports to a specific network address. In this way you can tunnel into a interior network allowing a normal router to control your network inside of an ISP's modem/router.

Each modem/router may configure DMZ differently. DMZ might be called something else by the device. Reference the router user manual or contact the ISP for help configuring a DMZ.


How can I find out if my ISP is blocking ports and how can I resolve this issue

• Contact your ISP to determine if they are blocking ports. The ISP might be able to remove the blocking of ports.
• Change the ports that you are using for port forwarding. See the section below on changing the external port for remote access.

How can I change the external port number that the Cortexa is accessed by.

• Preferred - if your router allows it, forward a random external port number (something you can remember though) to an internal port of 80 at the address of the Cortexa. This makes it far less likely you will be targeted by a hacker.
• Add an Additional Listening Port

Internet Access Issues

The Cortexa can not get data from the internet/weather information is incorrect or wont' display correctly''

Cortexa uses the Internet to access weather information, as well as to send automated emails and other tasks. If Internet access is not functioning, the most likely issues are: the gateway hasn’t been specified in the Cortexa, your router is not connected to the Internet or the DNS addresses in Cortexa are incorrect. Please verify all of the following:

• Verify that the Gateway field is populated under Network Services->IP Setup. (Should be the IP of your router)
  • Verify that DNS servers are populated under Network Services->General settings and that one of the DNS Servers has the IP address of the home router. If the Cortexa has a static IP address, make sure the <Allow DNS server list to be overridden by DHCP/PPP on WAN> is UNCHECKED.

To Confirm that you have internet access do the following:

• Verify that the Cortexa has correct time and date under (Setup Options > Time & Location)
• Verify that the local weather drop down menus populate. Select a Weather Service and enter your zip code (AWS or Weather Channel) or City Name (Weather Channel) and then click <Search Location> or <Get Stations>. If the drop down menus populate, then internet access is now verified.

For additional details, please see the Cortexa Network Guide.