Linksys BEFSR41W manual Package Contents, Minimum Requirements

Page 5

Instant BroadbandTM Series

Figure 1-1

Package Contents

One Linksys EtherFast® Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router with 4-Port Switch (1)

One Power Adapter (2)

One TechHelper CD-ROM (3)

One User Guide (4)

Quick Installation (not shown)

One Registration Card (not shown)

Minimum Requirements

Network Adapter with Ethernet (UTP CAT 5) Cabling and TCP/IP Protocol Installed per PC

Internet Explorer 4.0 or Netscape Navigator 4.7 or Higher for Web-Based Configuration

Cable or DSL Modem with Ethernet Connection and Internet Access

CD-ROM Drive

WPC11 for Wireless Connection (sold separately)

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

Chapter 2: Getting to Know the Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router

The Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router’s Rear Panel

The back panel of the Router is where all of the Router’s connections are made.

 

Figure 2-1

WAN

The WAN (Wide Area Network) Port is where you

 

will connect your cable or DSL modem.

Ports 1-4

These four LAN (Local Area Network) ports are

 

where you will connect networked devices, such as

 

PCs, print servers, and any other Ethernet devices

 

you want to put on your network. These ports will

 

auto-detect the use of crossover or straight RJ-45

 

cables.

Power

The Power Port is where you will connect the

 

included AC Power adapter.

PCMCIA Slot

This is where you can connect the optional wireless

 

PC card (not included) for wireless features.

2

3

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Contents EtherFast Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router With 4-Port Switch Copyright & Trademarks Table of Contents Introduction Linksys Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready RouterFeatures Minimum Requirements Package ContentsCable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router’s Rear Panel Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router’s Front Panel LEDs Wireless-PC CardReset Button About Static & Dynamic IP Addresses OverviewConnecting Your Hardware Together and Booting Up Instant BroadbandTM Series Setup Adding Wireless Capabilities to Your RouterEssid Configuring the Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router Instant BroadbandTM Series Setup p Cable/DSL Wireless-Ready Router’s Web- based UtilityQuick & Easy Administration Password Setting WEP Encryption Status Help Log Incoming/Outgoing Access Logs Here you will specify whetherFilters UPnPPort Forwarding Port Using IPSec Pass ThroughPort Range Forwarding Dynamic Routing Static Routing MAC Address Cloning DMZ HostCommon Problems and Solutions Appendix a TroubleshootingFrequently Asked Questions Through IPSec is supported Step One Pinging an IP Address Appendix B How to Obtain Your ISP’s E-mail & Web AddressesFigure C-1 Appendix C Installing the TCP/IP ProtocolFigure C-2 Appendix D Twisted-Pair CablingBlesCrimping Your Own Network Appendix E GlossaryInstant BroadbandTM Series Instant BroadbandTM Series Speed Appendix F SpecificationsEnvironmental Appendix G Warranty InformationAppendix 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.