Tls

Reference Manual for the NETGEAR WG102 ProSafe 802.11g Wireless Access Point

This is typically the configuration parameter for a wireless PC card. It corresponds to the ESSID in the wireless Access Point and to the wireless network name. See also Wireless Network Name and ESSID.

Subnet Mask

Combined with the IP address, the IP Subnet Mask allows a device to know which other addresses are local to it, and which must be reached through a gateway or router.

Short for Transport Layer Security, TLS is a protocol that guarantees privacy and data integrity between client/server applications communicating over the Internet.

The TLS protocol is made up of two layers. The TLS Record Protocol ensures that a connection is private by using symmetric data encryption and ensures that the connection is reliable. The second TLS layer is the TLS Handshake Protocol, which allows authentication between the server and client and the negotiation of an encryption algorithm and cryptographic keys before data is transmitted or received. Based on Netscape’s SSL 3.0, TLS supercedes and is an extension of SSL. TLS and SSL are not interoperable.

UTP

Unshielded twisted pair is the cable used by 10BASE-T and 100BASE-Tx Ethernet networks.

WAN

A long distance link used to extend or connect remotely located local area networks. The Internet is a large WAN.

WEP

Wired Equivalent Privacy is a data encryption protocol for 802.11b wireless networks.

All wireless nodes and access points on the network are configured with a 64-bit or 128-bit Shared Key for data encryption.

wide area network

WAN. A long distance link used to extend or connect remotely located local area networks. The Internet is a large WAN.

Wi-Fi

A trade name for the 802.11b wireless networking standard, given by the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA, see http://www.wi-fi.net), an industry standards group promoting interoperability among 802.11b devices.

Windows Internet Naming Service

WINS. Windows Internet Naming Service is a server process for resolving Windows-based computer names to IP addresses.

If a remote network contains a WINS server, your Windows PCs can gather information from that WINS server about its local hosts. This allows your PCs to browse that remote network using the Windows Network Neighborhood feature.

Glossary

October 2004

WG102 specifications

The NETGEAR WG102 is a robust and versatile wireless access point designed to enhance network connectivity in a variety of environments, from small businesses to larger enterprise settings. This device is well-regarded for its ease of use, reliable performance, and a feature set that caters to both basic and advanced networking needs.

One of the key features of the WG102 is its support for the IEEE 802.11g standard, which provides data rates of up to 54 Mbps. This makes it suitable for high-speed internet access and seamless data transfer for users connected to the network. Additionally, the WG102 is backward compatible with the 802.11b devices, ensuring that existing hardware can be integrated into the network without issues, thereby protecting investment in older technology.

The WG102 also excels in its deployment flexibility. With Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, installation becomes significantly easier, as the access point can receive power through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for additional power outlets. This feature is particularly advantageous in locations where power supply access is limited or where aesthetic considerations are key.

Security is a vital aspect of any network, and the WG102 does not disappoint. It supports Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA and WPA2) for secure wireless communications, ensuring that user data is encrypted and protected from potential threats. The device also features WEP encryption, allowing users to implement various security measures based on their specific needs.

The WG102's management capabilities include a web-based interface, enabling administrators to configure settings easily and monitor network performance. The device supports VLAN tagging, which can help in segmenting network traffic for better performance and security. The ability to manage multiple access points through a single interface also streamlines network management.

In terms of physical characteristics, the NETGEAR WG102 is designed for durability and reliability. Its compact form factor allows for discreet installation, whether mounted on a ceiling, wall, or placed on surfaces.

Overall, the NETGEAR WG102 is a dependable access point that offers a combination of speed, security, and ease of management, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their wireless networking capabilities.