Cisco Systems WRT54G manual Network Topology, Roaming

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Dual-Band Wireless Access Point

Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network

Network Topology

A wireless LAN is a group of computers, each equipped with one Linksys wireless adapter. Computers in a wireless LAN must be configured to share the same radio channel.

The Linksys wireless adapters provide access to a wired LAN for wireless workstations. An integrated wireless and wired LAN is called an infrastructure configuration. A group of Linksys wireless adapter users and a Wireless-G Broadband Router compose a Basic Service Set (BSS). Each Linksys wireless adapter PC in a BSS can talk to any computer in a wired LAN infrastructure via the Wireless-G Broadband Router.

An infrastructure configuration extends the accessibility of a Linksys wireless adapter PC to a wired LAN, and doubles the effective wireless transmission range for two Linksys wireless adapter PCs. Since the Wireless-G Broadband Router is able to forward data within its BSS, the effective transmission range in an infrastructure LAN is doubled.

Roaming

Infrastructure mode also supports roaming capabilities for mobile users. More than one BSS can be configured as an Extended Service Set (ESS). This continuous network allows users to roam freely within an ESS. All PCs equipped with a Linksys wireless adapter within one ESS must be configured with the same ESS ID and use the same radio channel.

Before enabling an ESS with roaming capability, choosing a feasible radio channel and optimum Wireless-G Broadband Router position is recommended. Proper router positioning combined with a clear radio signal will greatly enhance performance.

Chapter 2: Planning your Wireless Network

LAN: the computers and networking products that make up your local network

Infrastructure: a wireless network that is bridged to a wired network via an access point.

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Network Topology

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Contents Jameco Part Number 487058UsersGuide 54Mbps GHz Wireless- G Copyright and Trademarks Word definitionTable of Contents Appendix ATroubleshooting Appendix B Wireless SecurityList of Figures Broadband Router’s Back Panel18 Wireless Tab Advanced Wireless Settings Figure B-12 WEP Introduction WelcomeWhat’s in this Guide? Wireless-G Broadband Router Network Topology RoamingNetwork Layout Getting to Know the Wireless-G Broadband Router Back PanelFront Panel DMZConnecting the Wireless-G Broadband Router Hardware InstallationConnecting the Wireless-G Broadband Router Wireless-G Broadband Router Configuring the PCs Configuring Windows 98 and Millennium PCsOverview Configuring Windows 2000 PCs PropertiesConfiguring Windows XP PCs Configuring the PCs Configuring Windows XP PCs Configuring the Wireless-G Broadband Router Password ScreenSetup Tab Basic Setup Internet SetupPPPoE Connection Type Router IP Time Setting Setup Tab Ddns 11 Setup Tab DdnsSetup Tab MAC Address Clone 12 Setup Tab MAC Address CloneSetup Tab Advanced Routing 13 Setup Tab Advanced Routing GatewayWireless Tab Basic Wireless Settings CorrectlyWireless Tab Wireless MAC Filter 16 Wireless Tab Wireless MAC FilterWireless Tab Advanced Wireless Settings 18 Wireless Tab Advanced Wireless SettingsWireless-G Broadband Router Security Tab Firewall Security Tab VPN PassthroughSecurity Tab Wireless Security 21 Wireless Tab Wireless Security WPA Pre-Shared Key23 Wireless Tab Wireless Security Radius Access Restrictions Tab 25 Access Restrictions TabApplications and Gaming Tab Port Range Forward 28 Applications and Gaming Tab Port Range ForwardApplications and Gaming Tab DMZ 29 Applications and Gaming DMZAdministration Tab Management Administration Tab LogAdministration Tab Diagnostics 32 Administration Tab DiagnosticsAdministration Tab Factory Defaults Administration Tab Firmware UpgradeStatus Tab Router 37 Status Tab RouterStatus Tab Local Network 38 Status Tab Local NetworkStatus Tab Wireless 39 Status Tab WirelessAppendix a Troubleshooting Common Problems and SolutionsNeed to set a static IP address on a PC Open a command prompt. For Windows 98 and Me Wireless-G Broadband Router TCP UDP VPN Ipsec Can’t get the Internet game, server, or application to workTo start over, I need to set the Router to factory default Need to upgrade the firmwareFirmware upgrade failed, and/or the Power LED is flashing My DSL service’s PPPoE is always disconnecting Frequently Asked Questions Power LED keeps flashingWhere is the Router installed on the network? Is IPSec Pass-Through supported by the Router?What is Network Address Translation and what is it used for? Does the Router support ICQ send file?How can I block corrupted FTP downloads? What is DMZ Hosting? What are the advanced features of the Router?What is the Ieee 802.11g standard? What Ieee 802.11b features are supported?What is ad-hoc mode? What is infrastructure mode?What is roaming? What is ISM band?What is Spread Spectrum? What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences?What is WEP? What is a MAC Address?How do I resolve issues with signal loss? Have excellent signal strength, but I cannot see my networkAppendix B Wireless Security Brief OverviewWhat Are The Risks? Passive Attacks Maximizing Wireless Security Active AttacksCommon Sense Solutions Ssid WEP WPA WPA Radius Figure C-1 Upgrade Firmware Appendix C Upgrading FirmwareAppendix D Windows Help TCP/IPWindows 98 or Me Instructions Windows 2000 or XP InstructionsFor the Router’s Web-based Utility Figure E-3 MAC Address/Physical AddressAppendix F Glossary Wireless-G Broadband Router Wireless-G Broadband Router Wireless-G Broadband Router Wireless-G Broadband Router Wireless-G Broadband Router Appendix G Specifications Wireless-G Broadband Router Appendix H Warranty Information Limited WarrantyAppendix I Regulatory Information FCC StatementWireless-G Broadband Router Wireless-G Broadband Router Appendix J Contact Information

WRT54G specifications

The Cisco Systems WRT54G is a cornerstone of home and small office networking, renowned for its robust features and reliability since its release in 2002. Widely acknowledged as one of the first consumer-grade routers to combine wireless and wired networking capabilities, the WRT54G has earned a legacy as a hallmark of simplicity and performance.

At the heart of its functionality is the 802.11g wireless standard, which allows for wireless connections at speeds of up to 54 Mbps. This technology ensures a reliable connection over significant distances, making it suitable for various home and office environments. The WRT54G operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band, which provides compatibility with many devices but can be susceptible to interference from other electronic devices.

One of the standout features of the WRT54G is its user-friendly web interface, allowing even non-technical users to easily configure their network settings. This feature promotes security by enabling users to modify their network name, set up encryption protocols like WEP or WPA, and create a guest network for visitors. The router also incorporates a built-in firewall and supports Network Address Translation (NAT), adding an additional layer of security to users’ private networks.

The WRT54G boasts four Ethernet ports for wired connections, accommodating multiple devices simultaneously. This feature is particularly beneficial for users with desktop computers, gaming consoles, or network-attached storage devices requiring stable, high-speed connections. The ability to connect devices through Ethernet ensures that users can enjoy the benefits of a reliable and fast network, especially in environments where wireless connectivity may be limited.

Another distinguishing characteristic of the WRT54G is its open-source firmware capability, which has led to a devoted community of enthusiasts who have developed alternative firmware for greater customization and advanced features. This flexibility not only enhances the router's lifespan but also caters to users who require specific functionalities, such as advanced Quality of Service (QoS) settings or more extensive parental controls.

In conclusion, the Cisco Systems WRT54G remains a significant player in the realm of consumer networking due to its innovative features, ease of use, and adaptability. While newer models have since emerged, the WRT54G's enduring reputation speaks to its reliability and solid performance, making it a preferred choice for many users seeking to establish a dependable network.
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