Introduction

The D-Link DI-524UP Wireless Router is an 802.11b/g high-performance, wireless router that supports high-speed wireless networking at home, at work or in public places.

The 802.11g standard is backwards compatible with 802.11b products. This means that you do not need to change your entire network to maintain connectivity. You may sacrifice some of 802.11g’s speed when you mix 802.11b and 802.11g devices, but you will not lose the ability to communicate when you incorporate the 802.11g standard into your 802.11b network. You may choose to slowly change your network by gradually replacing the 802.11b devices with 802.11g devices.

In addition to offering faster data transfer speeds when used with other 802.11g products, the DI-524UP has the newest, strongest, most advanced security features available today. When used with other 802.11g WPA or WPA2 (WiFi Protected Access) and 802.1x compatible products in a network with a RADIUS server, the security features include:

•WPA Wi-Fi Protected Access authorizes and identifies users based on a secret key that changes automatically at a regular interval. WPA uses TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) to change the temporal key every 10,000 packets (a packet is a kind of message transmitted over a network.) This insures much greater security than the standard WEP security. (By contrast, the older WEP encryption required the keys to be changed manually.)

•WPA2, based on the IEEE 802.1i Wi-Fi certified standard, goes a level beyond the previous WPA by enhancing security with a new encryption code. Employing AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), and yet still backwards compatible with WPA, WPA2 utilizes 802.1X and EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol) to verify users on the wireless network using a Pre-Shared Key. Once all users on the LAN have been authenticated, there can be a securely encrypted flow of information between all parties on the LAN.

For home users that will not incorporate a RADIUS server in their network, the security for the DI-524UP, used in conjunction with other 802.11g products, will still be much stronger than ever before. Utilizing the Pre Shared Key mode of WPA, the DI-524UP will obtain a new security key every time it connects to the 802.11g network. You only need to input your encryption information once in the configuration menu. No longer will you have to manually input a new WEP key frequently to ensure security, with the DI-524UP, you will automatically receive a new key every time you connect, vastly increasing the safety of your communications.

The DI-524UP also comes equipped with one USB 1.1 port on the rear panel that supports printer sharing.

DI-524UP specifications

The D-Link DI-524UP is a versatile wireless router designed to enhance connectivity and accessibility for home and small office users. It was developed to provide reliable network performance while ensuring ease of use and robust security features.

One of the standout features of the DI-524UP is its wireless capability. Supporting the 802.11g standard, it enables wireless transmission speeds of up to 54 Mbps, making it suitable for most internet activities, including web browsing, streaming videos, and online gaming. Its backward compatibility with 802.11b devices ensures that older technology can still connect seamlessly.

Equipped with four 10/100 Mbps LAN ports, the DI-524UP supports wired connections as well, allowing users to connect multiple devices directly for enhanced stability. This dual-mode functionality makes the router ideal for environments where both wired and wireless connections are necessary, delivering flexibility to user setups.

Another prominent feature of the DI-524UP is its built-in print server. This capability allows users to connect a USB printer directly to the router, enabling multiple devices on the network to print wirelessly without the need for a dedicated PC. This functionality greatly enhances efficiency and convenience, especially in small office settings.

In terms of security, the D-Link DI-524UP comes with a range of protective measures. Support for Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2) and 64/128-bit WEP encryption ensures that data transmitted over the network remains secure from unauthorized access. Additionally, the router includes a firewall and network address translation (NAT) features, enhancing security against external attacks.

Setting up the DI-524UP is straightforward, thanks to its user-friendly web-based interface, which offers step-by-step guidance through the installation process. For those seeking to customize their settings, the router provides advanced features like port forwarding and virtual server capabilities.

In summary, the D-Link DI-524UP is an excellent choice for users seeking a reliable wireless router that combines speed, security, and ease of use. Its practical features, including a built-in print server and strong security measures, make it well-suited for both home and small office environments, providing seamless connectivity for all your devices.