Linksys BEFSR41W manual Adding Wireless Capabilities to Your Router, Setup

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Instant BroadbandTM Series

Chapter 4: Adding Wireless Capabilities to Your Router

Now that your Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router is wired into your network, you can make your Router wireless. You can also wait until a later time. You will need a WPC11 Wireless PC Card (sold separately.)

1. Power off the Router.

Make sure to insert the WPC11 Wireless PC Card in the direction shown in the warning label below.

2.Locate the PCMCIA slot on the back of the Router. Insert the Wireless PC Card into the PCMCIA slot in the direction shown in Figure 4-1. It is very important to install it with the LEDs facing up and in the correct direction or damage to the Router can occur. Push the Wireless PC Card into the slot until it is securely in place.

Figure 4-1

EtherFast® Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router with 4-Port Switch

3.Configure the wireless functions of the web utility using the following instructions. (Refer to Chapter 6 for more information.)

A.Access the web utility by opening your web browser and typing http://192.168.1.1 in the browser’s Address box. (This number is the default IP address of your Router.) Press Enter. (See Figure 4-2.)

Figure 4-2

B.After entering the address into the web browser, a password request page will pop up. (See Figure 4-3.) Leave the User Name field empty, but type admin into the Password field.

Figure 4-3

C.The basic Setup screen is the first screen you will see when you access the utility, but is the only one you need to set up your Wireless PC Card. (See Figure 4-4.) If you have already installed and set up your router, you have already seen this screen and have already properly configured all of the screen’s values. More detailed explanations and instructions can be found by clicking the page’s Help button. To clear any values you’ve entered, click Cancel and re-enter the information. To apply any set- tings that you have changed, click the Apply button. Once all settings are correct, click Continue.

Setup

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Contents EtherFast Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router With 4-Port Switch Copyright & Trademarks Table of Contents Features Linksys Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready RouterIntroduction Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router’s Rear Panel Package ContentsMinimum Requirements Reset Button Wireless-PC CardCable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router’s Front Panel LEDs Overview About Static & Dynamic IP AddressesConnecting Your Hardware Together and Booting Up Instant BroadbandTM Series Adding Wireless Capabilities to Your Router SetupEssid Configuring the Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router Instant BroadbandTM Series Quick & Easy Administration Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router’s Web- based UtilitySetup p Password Setting WEP Encryption Status Help Incoming/Outgoing Access Logs Here you will specify whether LogUPnP FiltersUsing IPSec Pass Through Port Forwarding PortPort Range Forwarding Dynamic Routing Static Routing DMZ Host MAC Address CloningAppendix a Troubleshooting Common Problems and SolutionsFrequently Asked Questions Through IPSec is supported Appendix B How to Obtain Your ISP’s E-mail & Web Addresses Step One Pinging an IP AddressAppendix C Installing the TCP/IP Protocol Figure C-1Appendix D Twisted-Pair Cabling Figure C-2Appendix E Glossary BlesCrimping Your Own NetworkInstant BroadbandTM Series Instant BroadbandTM Series Appendix F Specifications SpeedAppendix G Warranty Information EnvironmentalAppendix H Contact Information Copyright 2002 Linksys, All Rights Reserved

BEFSR41W specifications

The Linksys BEFSR41W is a versatile wireless broadband router that has been a popular choice for both home and small office environments since its introduction. Designed to offer reliable internet connectivity, the BEFSR41W combines wired and wireless capabilities, ensuring that users can connect multiple devices efficiently.

One of the standout features of the Linksys BEFSR41W is its integrated 4-port 10/100 Ethernet switch, which allows users to connect their wired devices directly. This is particularly useful for users who require stable connections for activities such as gaming or streaming high-definition content. The router supports the IEEE 802.3 and 802.3u standards, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.

In terms of wireless capabilities, the BEFSR41W operates on the 802.11b and 802.11g standards, providing maximum wireless data rates of up to 54 Mbps. This enables users to experience reasonably fast wireless internet speeds for everyday online activities such as browsing and emailing. The router's built-in antenna offers decent coverage, making it suitable for smaller homes and office spaces.

Security is a key consideration for any network device, and the Linksys BEFSR41W incorporates several features to help safeguard users' data. It supports Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) encryption methods, allowing users to set up secure connections and protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. Additionally, the router includes a built-in firewall to help prevent external attacks and threats.

Another significant characteristic of the BEFSR41W is its easy setup process. The router comes with a user-friendly web-based interface that simplifies the configuration process. Users can easily set up their network, configure security settings, and manage connected devices without needing specialized technical skills.

Additionally, the router is designed for longevity, with robust build quality ensuring reliability over time. It is also backward compatible with older wireless standards, which provides flexibility for users who have legacy devices in their network.

In conclusion, the Linksys BEFSR41W is a solid option for anyone seeking a dependable routing solution that balances both wired and wireless connectivity. With its blend of features, ease of use, and security options, it remains a relevant choice for users looking to establish a basic home or small office network.