Common Sense Solutions | Cisco Systems WRT54G guide

Wireless-G Broadband Router

examples below, your implementation and administration of network security measures is the key to maximizing wireless security.

No preventative measure will guarantee network security but it will make it more difficult for someone to hack into your network. Often, hackers are looking for an easy target. Making your network less attractive to hackers, by making it harder for them to get in, will make them look elsewhere.

How do you do this? Before discussing WEP and WPA, let's look at a few security measures often overlooked.

A. Common Sense Solutions

1)Network Content

Now that you know the risks assumed when networking wirelessly, you should view wireless networks as you would the Internet. Don't host any systems or provide access to data on a wireless network that you wouldn't put on the Internet.

2)Network Layout

When you first lay out your network, keep in mind where your wireless PCs are going to be located and try to position your access point(s) towards the center of that network radius. Remember that access points transmit indiscriminately in a radius; placing an access point at the edge of the physical network area reduces network performance and leaves an opening for any hacker smart enough to discover where the access point is transmitting.

This is an invitation for a man-in-the-middle attack, as described in the previous section. To perform this type of attack, the hacker has to be physically close to your network. So, monitoring both your network and your property is important. Furthermore, if you are suspicious of unauthorized network traffic, most wireless products come with a log function, with which you can view activity on your network and verify if any unauthorized users have had access.

3)Network Devices

With every wireless networking device you use, keep in mind that network settings (SSID, WEP keys, etc.) are stored in its firmware. If they get into the hands of a hacker, so do all of your settings. So keep an eye on them.

4)Administrator passwords

Your network administrator is the only person who can change network settings. If a hacker gets a hold of the administrator's password, he, too, can change those settings. So, make it harder for a hacker to get that information. Change the administrator's password regularly.

Appendix B: Wireless Security

Maximizing Wireless Security

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.