VPN and MQTT connection – what are they for?

The x500 can have up to 3 active connections that it uses to offer you its range of functionalities. This article clarifies the purpose of these connections.

The x500 will be shown as “online” when at least 1 of these connections is active.

VPN connection

You are likely already familiar with the VPN connection. This is the x500’s connection that enables you to remotely and safely access your machines as if you are on-site. Additionally, it’s required for any HTTP/VNC services to work. This connection can be turned off.

The x500 connects to the closest X4 Remote server, based on its location. The location is determined based on its IP address, this is called GeoIP. You can overrule this by manually entering a location and then switching its VPN connection off and back on.

MQTT connection

The x500 also has an MQTT connection. This is a lightweight connection that’s used for pushing a new configuration to the x500, upgrading its firmware, or remotely switching the x500’s VPN connection off or on. This connection is always active.

Additionally, if you’re using Cloud Logging or Cloud Notify, the x500 has another MQTT connection named “MQTT logger“. It’s used for sending data from the x500 to the X4 Cloud. This connection is only active when you’ve configured Cloud Logging or Cloud Notify.