Wireless LAN Security

Because wireless networks are not as secure as wired networks, it’s vital that security settings are clearly understood and applied.

The list below shows the possible wireless security levels on your SMCWCB-N2 starting with the most secure. EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol) is used for authentication and utilizes dynamic WEP key exchange. EAP requires interaction with a RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) server either on the WAN or the LAN to provide authentication service for wireless stations.

1.Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2)

2.IEEE802.1X EAP with RADIUS Server authentication

3.WEP Encryption

4 . Unique ESSID

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CONFIGURE OR CHANGE SECURITY SETTTINGS FOR A

NETWORK WITHOUT AUTHORIZATION AND WITHOUT CLEARLY UNDERSTANDING

THE SETTINGS YOU ARE APPLING. WITH POOR SECURITY SETTINGS, SENSITIVE

DATA YOU SEND CAN BE SEEN BY OTHERS.

D ATA E NCRYPTION WITH WEP

The WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) security protocol is an encryption method designed to try to make wireless networks as secure as wired networks. WEP encryption scrambles all data packets transmitted between the SMCWCB-N2 and the access point or other wireless stations to keep network communications private. Both the wireless stations and the access points must use the same WEP key for data encryption and decryption.

There are two ways to create WEP keys in your SMCWCB-N2.

•Automatic WEP key generation based on a password phrase called a passphrase. The passphrase is case sensitive. You must use the same passphrase for all WLAN adapters with this feature in the same WLAN.

•For WLAN adapters without the passphrase feature, you can still take advantage of this feature by writing down the four automatically generated WEP keys from the Security Settings screen of the wireless utility and entering them manually as the WEP keys in the other WLAN adapter(s).

The SMCWCB-N2 allows you to configure up to four WEP keys and only one key is used as the default transmit key at any one time.

SMCWCB-N2 specifications

The SMC Networks SMCWCB-N2 is a versatile and robust wireless networking solution designed to cater to the needs of home and small office users. As a successor to previous models, it showcases advancements in wireless performance and technology, making it an appealing choice for those looking to enhance their networking experience.

One of the key features of the SMCWCB-N2 is its adherence to the IEEE 802.11n standard, which allows for superior data rates and coverage compared to its predecessors. The device is capable of offering speeds of up to 300 Mbps, ensuring seamless streaming, online gaming, and fast downloads across multiple devices. This high-speed capability is complemented by MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology, which uses multiple antennas to improve data throughput and signal quality, significantly enhancing the user's wireless experience.

The SMCWCB-N2 operates on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, providing flexibility and enabling users to choose the best frequency for their specific needs. The dual-band feature minimizes interference and congestion, especially in environments densely populated with electronic devices. Users can easily switch between bands to balance network traffic and maximize performance.

Security is another strong point of the SMCWCB-N2. It supports advanced wireless encryption protocols such as WPA and WPA2, ensuring that the network remains safe from unauthorized access. This is particularly important in today’s digital landscape where cyber threats are prevalent. Additionally, the device includes features like MAC address filtering and a built-in firewall, further boosting its security capabilities.

The SMCWCB-N2 is also designed with ease of use in mind. It includes a web-based interface for straightforward setup and management, making it accessible even for users who may not be technically savvy. The WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) button allows for quick and easy connections of compatible devices, minimizing the complexity typically associated with network configuration.

In summary, the SMC Networks SMCWCB-N2 is a feature-rich wireless solution that combines speed, flexibility, and security. Whether for a home office or a small workspace, it stands out for its user-friendly design and robust performance, making it a suitable choice for anyone looking to upgrade their wireless networking capabilities.