Static Routing

Instant BroadbandTM Series

Figure 6-16

If your Router is connected to more than one network, it may be necessary to set up a static route between them. A static route is a pre-determined pathway that network information must travel to reach a specific host or network. Click the Show Routing Table button to view the current static routing configura- tion.

To create a static route entry:

1.Select Static Route Entry from the drop down list. The Cable/DSL Router supports up to 20 static route entries.

2.Enter the following data to create a new static route:

Destination LAN IP The Destination LAN IP is the address of the remote network or host to which you want to assign a static route. Enter the IP address of the host for which you wish to create a static route here. If you are building a route to an entire network, be sure that the network portion of the IP address is set to zero (0). For example, the Router’s standard IP address is 192.168.1.1. Based on this address, the address of the network to which the Router is connected is 192.168.1, with the last digit (1, in this case) determining the Router’s place on the network. Therefore you would enter the IP address 192.168.1.0 if you want to route to the Router’s entire network, rather than just to the Router.

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

Subnet Mask The Subnet Mask (also known as the Network Mask) deter- mines which portion of an IP address is the network portion, and which portion is the host portion. In the example above, the Network Mask is 255.255.255.0. This determines (by using the values 255) that the first three numbers of a network IP address identify this particular network, while the last digit (from 1 to 254) would identify the specific host.

Default Gateway IP This IP address should be the IP address of the gateway device that allows for contact between the Router and the remote network or host.

Hop Count This value gives the number of nodes that a data packet passes through before reaching its destination. A node is any device

on the network, such as switches, PCs, etc.

Interface This interface tells you whether your network is on the internal LAN or the WAN, or the external Internet. If you are connecting to a sub- network, select LAN. If you’re connecting to another network through the Internet, select WAN.

3. Click the Apply button to save your changes.

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.