TRENDnet TEW-421PC guide

¾Network SSID:

The SSID differentiates one Wireless LAN group name from another; so all access points and all devices attempting to connect to a specific Wireless LAN group name must use the same SSID. A device will not be permitted to join the BSS unless it can provide the unique SSID.

If the SSID parameter is “ANY”, it will detect the strongest signal of the wireless station.

¾Channel:

It shows radio channel numbers that used for Wireless LAN networking.

The channel number can be set only under the Ad-Hoc operation mode. In Ad-Hoc mode stations, each station must have the same channel numbers and SSID.

In Infrastructure mode, the Wireless Cardbus Card will automatically detect the channel number of the Access Point.

Security: the setting of the Network Encryption.

This function is used to protect wireless communication from eavesdropping. A secondary function of encryption is to prevent unauthorized access to a wireless network, and it can be achieved by using the Encryption function.

¾Encryption Mode:

There are two kinds of encryption mode, WEP encryption and WPA- PSK. Click the Enable Encryption to activate the security of the Cardbus Adapter.

WEP-Key:WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) relies on a secret key that is shared between a mobile station and a base station (Access Point).

WEP-Passphrase:the Passphrase in the dialog box helps you to create a group of WEP key in the Key Setting.

¾Authentication Mode:

Open System: with the same WEP key between the stations, the stations don’t need to be authenticated, and this algorithm was set to default.

Shared Key: with the same WEP key between the stations in this Authentication algorithm, this type will use packets with encryption by transferring a challenge text which will be acknowledge by both side of the stations. In order to choose which authentication algorithm will be used, you must know which one the station supports this algorithm first.

It is recommended to select “Auto” if you are not familiar with the setting.

¾Default Key (Key 1 ~ Key 4):

You can type the key that you want to use from Key#1 to Key #4, and the key that you type will be the encryption between the stations that you connected with.

¾Key Length, Key Format and WEP Key:

If you select 64bit in Hex format, you must type 10 values in the following range (0~F, hexadecimal), or 64bit in ASCII format, you must type 5 values in the following range (0~9, A~Z and a~z Alphanumeric).

If you select 128bit in Hex format, you must type 26 values (0~F, hexadecimal), or 128bit in ASCII format, you must type 13 values in the following range (0~9, A~Z and a~z Alphanumeric).

If you select 256bit in Hex format, you must type 58 values (0~F, hexadecimal), or 256bit in ASCII format, you must type 29 values in the following range (0~9, A~Z and a~z Alphanumeric).

TEW-421PC specifications

The TRENDnet TEW-421PC and TEW-423PI are two notable wireless adapters designed to enhance the connectivity experience for various users, ranging from casual internet surfers to professionals requiring reliable and fast internet connections. TRENDnet has long been a trusted brand in networking equipment, and these adapters exemplify its commitment to quality and performance.

The TEW-421PC is a PCI wireless adapter that offers a quick and easy solution for upgrading a desktop computer's wireless capabilities. Operating on the IEEE 802.11g standard, it provides a robust connection with speeds up to 54 Mbps. This adapter is equipped with a detachable antenna, which helps improve signal strength and flexibility. With support for WPA and WPA2 encryption, the TEW-421PC ensures secure wireless communication, making it ideal for both home and office environments.

The TEW-423PI, on the other hand, is a PCI Express wireless adapter, making it compatible with modern motherboards equipped with PCIe slots. This model also adheres to the IEEE 802.11n standard, offering higher speeds and better range compared to its predecessor. Capable of achieving speeds up to 300 Mbps, the TEW-423PI is perfect for streaming high-definition content, online gaming, and file sharing. This adapter employs Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology, which uses multiple antennas to transmit and receive data simultaneously, boosting performance and range.

One of the standout features of both adapters is their easy installation. They come with a user-friendly setup process, often requiring just a few minutes to get connected. Furthermore, TRENDnet includes robust drivers that support various operating systems, ensuring compatibility with most Windows and Linux distributions.

In terms of characteristics, both adapters are compact and built with durability in mind. Their design provides excellent heat dissipation, which is crucial during heavy usage periods. Additionally, both models feature LED indicators for power and network connectivity status, making troubleshooting straightforward.

In conclusion, the TRENDnet TEW-421PC and TEW-423PI wireless adapters offer an excellent balance of performance, security, and ease of use. Whether you need to upgrade your desktop's wireless capabilities or enhance your network's speed and range, these adapters deliver reliable connectivity, making them valuable additions to your networking setup.