Wireless

Figure 6-3

Instant Wireless® Series

•MAC Address. The MAC Address of the 2.4 GHz, Draft 802.11g interface is displayed here.

•Mode. Select Mixed and both Wireless-G and Wireless-B computers will be allowed on the network, but the speed will be reduced. Select G-Onlyfor maximum speed, but no Wireless-B users will be allowed on the network.

•SSID. The SSID is the unique name shared among all points in a wireless network. The SSID must be identical for all points in the wireless network. It is case-sensitive and must not exceed 32 alphanumeric characters, which may be any keyboard character. Make sure this setting is the same for all points in your wireless network. For added security, Linksys recommends that you change the SSID from the default linksys to a unique name.

•SSID Broadcast. Allows the SSID to be broadcast on your network. You may want to enable this function while configuring your network, but make sure that you disable it when you are finished. With this enabled, someone could easily obtain the SSID information with site survey software and gain unau- thorized access to your network. Click Enable to broadcast. Click Disable to increase network security and prevent the SSID from being seen on networked PCs.

•Channel. Select the appropriate channel from the list provided to corre- spond with your network settings, between 1 and 13. All points in your wireless network must use the same channel in order to function correctly.

•WEP. The WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) Encryption method is set to Disable by default. To enable WEP, click the Enable radio button, and then click the Edit WEP Settings button to configure the WEP settings.

SETTING WEP ENCRYPTION:

If the Disable radio button is selected and you click the Edit WEP Settings but- ton, then the screen shown in

Figure 6-3 will appear. Click the O K b u t t o n to e n a b l e W E P encryption or Cancel to return to the Setup screen.

Set WEP Encryption through the Web-based Utility by clicking the

Edit WEP Settings button on the Setup screen as shown in Figure 6-2.

Wireless-G Access Point

This will open the WEP Keys screen, Figure 6-4. From this screen, you can select the type of WEP encryption to use and set the Passphrase for that encryption.

Figure 6-4

Important: Always remember that each point in your wireless net- work MUST use the same WEP encryption method and encryption key, or else your wireless network will not function properly.

•Default Transmit Key. Select the number of the key you want to use for the Access Point to send data. Use the same key for the receiver of data.

•WEP encryption. From the pull-down menu, select 64-bit 10 hex digits or 128-bit 26 hex digits for WEP encryption. Higher encryption levels offer higher levels of security, but may decrease the network speed.

•Passphrase.This will allow you to set a passphrase used to generate a WEP key. The passphrase is case sensitive and must be 16 or less alphanumeric characters. Click the Generate button to create the WEP key(s).

•Keys 1-4.WEP key fields allow you to manually enter the WEP encryp- tion keys. Use hexadecimal characters, which are the letters “A” through “F” and the numbers “0” through “9”. Do not leave a key field blank and do not enter all zeroes. For 64-bit WEP encryption, each key must consist of exactly 10 hexadeciamal characters. For 128-bit WEP encryption, each key must consist of exactly 26 hexadecimal characters.

Click the Apply button to apply your changes, or click Cancel to cancel your most recent change.

WAP54G specifications

The D-Link WAP54G is a wireless access point that offers a variety of features aimed at enhancing network connectivity and performance. Designed for small to medium-sized environments, this device is an essential component for creating a reliable wireless network. With its impressive capabilities, the WAP54G easily integrates into existing networks, providing enhanced coverage and flexibility.

One of the main features of the WAP54G is its support for the IEEE 802.11g standard, which allows for data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This standard is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, ensuring that users can maintain connectivity with older hardware. This level of compatibility makes the WAP54G a versatile choice for diverse networking needs.

The device is equipped with advanced security features, including WPA and WPA2 encryption protocols, ensuring that users can protect their network from unauthorized access. These security measures are essential in today’s world, where data breaches are increasingly common. Additionally, the WAP54G supports MAC address filtering, which further restricts access to only authorized devices.

For connectivity, the WAP54G includes multiple Ethernet ports, allowing it to be connected directly to a wired network. This feature enables the access point to bridge the gap between wired and wireless devices, facilitating seamless communication. Moreover, the WAP54G supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), which simplifies installation by allowing it to receive power and data through a single Ethernet cable. This is particularly beneficial in environments where power outlets are limited or difficult to access.

Another noteworthy aspect of the WAP54G is its coverage capabilities. With its adjustable antennas, users can optimize signal distribution throughout a building, overcoming common obstacles such as walls and furniture that can hinder wireless performance. The access point also boasts a user-friendly web-based interface, making it easy to configure and manage settings for both novice and experienced users alike.

In terms of reliability, the D-Link WAP54G features a solid build quality and a compact design, allowing it to fit seamlessly into various environments. The device is also equipped with LED indicators that provide real-time status updates on power, Ethernet connection, and wireless activity, enabling users to monitor their network easily.

Overall, the D-Link WAP54G is a robust wireless access point that combines speed, security, and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for enhancing network performance in both home and office settings.