Introduction, Welcome | Nortel Networks WAG54G specs

Wireless-G ADSL Gateway

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

Thank you for choosing the Wireless-G ADSL Gateway. This Gateway will provide your computers with a high- speed Internet connection as well as resources, including files and printers. Since the Gateway is wireless, Internet access can be shared over the wired network as well as the wireless broadcast at up to 11Mbps for Wireless-B or up to 54Mbps for Wireless-G.

How does the Gateway do all of this? By connecting the Internet, as well as your computers and peripherals, to the Gateway, then the Gateway can direct and control communications for your network.

To protect your data and privacy, the Gateway features an advanced firewall to keep out Internet intruders. Wireless transmissions can be protected by powerful data encryption. In addition, you can safeguard your family with parental control features such as Internet access restrictions and keyword blocking. You can configure the Gateway’s settings through the easy-to-use, browser-based utility.

But what does all of this mean?

Networks are useful tools for sharing Internet access and 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 not only are useful in homes and offices, but also can be fun.

PCs on a wired network create a LAN, or Local Area Network. They are connected with Ethernet cables, which is why the network is called “wired.” PCs equipped with wireless cards or adapters can communicate without cumbersome cables. By sharing the same wireless settings, within their transmission radius, they form a wireless network. This is sometimes called a WLAN, or Wireless Local Area Network. Since the Gateway has wireless capabilities, it can bridge your wired and wireless networks, letting them communicate with each other.

With your networks all connected, wired, wireless, and the Internet, you can now share files and Internet access—and even play games. All the while, the Wireless-G ADSL Gateway protects your networks from unauthorized and unwelcome users.

Linksys recommends using the Setup CD-ROM for first-time installation of the Gateway. If you do not wish to run the Setup Wizard on the Setup CD-ROM, then use the instructions in this Guide to help you connect the Gateway, set it up, and configure it to bridge your different networks. These instructions should be all you need to get the most out of the Wireless-G ADSL Gateway.

wpa (wi-fi protected access): a wireless security protocol using TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) encryption, which can be used in conjunction with a RADIUS server.

spi (stateful packet inspection) firewall: a technology that inspects incoming packets of information before allowing them to enter the network.

firewall: Security measures that protect the resources of a local network from intruders.

nat (network address translation): NAT technology translates IP addresses of a local area network to a different IP address for the Internet.

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

lan (local area network): The computers and networking products that make up the network in your home or office.

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

WAG54G specifications

Nortel Networks WAG54G is a robust and versatile wireless access gateway that has made significant strides in providing seamless connectivity for both home and small business environments. Designed with the intention of integrating both wired and wireless networking, this device bridges the gap between traditional Ethernet connections and the burgeoning needs of modern wireless communication.

One of the key features of the WAG54G is its ability to deliver high-speed Internet access through multiple protocols, including ADSL and DSL. This flexibility allows users to enjoy fast Internet speeds while simultaneously managing their internal network. The device is equipped with advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features that prioritize traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth for optimal performance.

The WAG54G is powered by advanced 802.11g wireless technology, which offers wireless data rates of up to 54 Mbps. This enables users to stream videos, make VoIP calls, and engage in online gaming without significant lag, enhancing the overall user experience. The device supports a range of wireless security protocols, including WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption, ensuring that user data remains secure from potential threats and unauthorized access.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the WAG54G is its straightforward setup process. The unit comes with a user-friendly web interface that simplifies configuration, allowing users to customize their network settings with ease. The WAG54G also features multiple Ethernet ports for wired connections, making it an ideal solution for homes and offices with multiple devices requiring stable Internet connectivity.

In addition to its core functionalities, the WAG54G supports features such as network address translation (NAT) and a built-in firewall that enhances security while allowing multiple devices to share a single Internet connection. The device also incorporates features like DHCP server capabilities and UPnP support, streamlining network management.

Overall, Nortel Networks WAG54G delivers a compelling mix of performance, security, and manageability. Its combination of wired and wireless capabilities, alongside robust security measures, makes it suitable for various networking needs in today’s digital landscape. Users can count on the WAG54G to provide a reliable and efficient solution that supports the demands of modern Internet usage.