Cisco Systems WUSB54GSC manual Introduction, Welcome

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Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

Thank you for choosing the Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster. With this Adapter, your wireless networking experience will be faster and easier than ever.

How does the Adapter do this? Like all wireless products, the Adapter allows for greater range and mobility within your wireless network. Connecting to your PC via the USB port means that this Adapter leaves the PC’s slots open for other purposes. This adapter communicates over the 802.11g wireless standard, one of the newest wireless standards, to communicate with your network.

But what does all of this mean?

Networks are useful tools for sharing computer resources. You can access one printer from different computers and access data located on another computer's hard drive. Networks are even used for playing multiplayer video games. So, networks are not only useful in homes and offices, they can also be fun.

PCs equipped with wireless cards and adapters can communicate without cumbersome cables. By sharing the same wireless settings, within their transmission radius, they form a wireless network.

And now, with SecureEasySetup, setting up your network and your Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter is easier than ever.

Use the instructions in this Guide to help you connect the Adapter, set it up, and configure it for your network. These instructions should be all you need to get the most out of the Adapter.

Chapter 1: Introduction

network: a series of computers or devices connected for the purpose of data sharing, storage, and/or transmission between users.

adapter: a device that adds network functionality to your PC.

802.11g: an IEEE wireless networking standard that specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps, an operating frequency of 2.4GHz, and backward compatibility with 802.11b devices.

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Welcome

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Contents Wireless- G Copyright and Trademarks How to Use this User GuideTable of Contents Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster Front Panel List of FiguresLink Information Welcome IntroductionWhat’s in this Guide? Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster Roaming Planning your Wireless NetworkSsid your wireless network’s name Network TopologyNetwork Layout Planning your Wireless NetworkLED Indicators Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G USB Network AdapterStarting the Setup Wizard Setting up and Connecting the USB AdapterInstalling files Creating a Profile Creating a ProfileChanges, refer to Using the Wireless Network Monitor Setting Up the Adapter with SecureEasySetupEncryption encoding data transmitted in a network Setting Up the Adapter with Available Networks12 WEP Key Needed for Connection 14 WPA2-Personal Needed for Connection 17 Network Settings Setting Up the Adapter with Manual Setup18 Wireless Mode WEP WPA2 Personal WPA PersonalEAP-TLS WPA EnterpriseRadius 28 Confirm New Settings Link Information Screens Using the Wireless Network MonitorAccessing the Wireless Network Monitor Wireless Network Status screenWireless Network Status Link Information Wireless Network Statistics Wireless Network StatisticsSite Information Site SurveyProfile Information Profiles11 Export a Profile Creating a New ProfileUSB Adapter does not work properly Appendix a TroubleshootingCommon Problems and Solutions My computer does not recognize the USB AdapterWhat Ieee 802.11b features are supported? Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the Ieee 802.11b standard? What is the Ieee 802.11g standard?What is ISM band? What is ad-hoc mode?What is infrastructure mode? What is roaming?What is WEP? What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences?Figure B-1 Wireless Network Monitor Icon Appendix B Using Windows XP Wireless ConfigurationFigure B-4 Available Wireless Network Figure B-6 Network Connection Wireless Security Security Precautions Appendix C Wireless SecuritySecurity Threats Facing Wireless Networks Appendix C Wireless Security Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster Shared Resources Appendix D Windows HelpNetwork Neighborhood/My Network Places Appendix E Glossary Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster WUSB54GSC Appendix F SpecificationsLimited Warranty Appendix G Warranty InformationFCC Statement Appendix H Regulatory InformationCompact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster Compact Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SpeedBooster Dual-Band Wireless Access Point Appendix I Contact Information

WUSB54GSC specifications

The Cisco Systems WUSB54GSC is a versatile wireless USB adapter designed to provide users with high-speed internet access by connecting to wireless networks. This adapter represents a significant step in wireless technology, making it easy to upgrade desktops and laptops to Wi-Fi capability, particularly in environments where it is not feasible to connect to a modem or router through a wired connection.

One of the standout features of the WUSB54GSC is its compliance with the IEEE 802.11g standard, allowing for data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This makes it suitable for various online activities, including web browsing, streaming media, and online gaming. The device also supports backwards compatibility with the older 802.11b standard, ensuring that users can connect to a wider range of wireless networks regardless of their configuration.

Another significant characteristic of the WUSB54GSC is its compact and portable design. The adapter is small enough to fit into a pocket, making it ideal for users who are constantly on the move. Its plug-and-play functionality also means that users can easily install it without the need for complicated configuration processes. The adapter's integration with Windows and other operating systems ensures a seamless experience, allowing users to connect to their networks with minimal setup.

The WUSB54GSC also features advanced security options to protect users' data and safeguard their connections. It supports various encryption protocols, including WEP, WPA, and WPA2, helping to create a secure wireless environment and protecting against unauthorized access. This ensures that sensitive information remains confidential while users enjoy the benefits of wireless technology.

Moreover, the WUSB54GSC is equipped with Cisco's "Wi-Fi Protected Setup" (WPS), which simplifies the process of connecting to secure wireless networks. By simply pressing a button on the router and the adapter, users can quickly establish a secure connection without remembering complex passwords.

In summary, the Cisco Systems WUSB54GSC is a reliable and user-friendly wireless USB adapter that combines portability, speed, and security. Its compliance with modern wireless standards, along with its robust security features, makes it an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their wireless connectivity experience. Whether for home, office, or travel use, the WUSB54GSC stands as a valuable tool in today's digital age.