Appendix B Wireless Security | Linksys WAG300N specification

Wireless-N ADSL2+ Gateway

SSID. There are several things to keep in mind about the SSID:

1.Disable Broadcast

2.Make it unique

3.Change it often

Most wireless networking devices will give you the option of broadcasting the SSID. While this option may be more convenient, it allows anyone to log into your wireless network. This includes hackers. So, don’t broadcast the SSID.

Wireless networking products come with a default SSID set by the factory. (The Linksys default SSID is “linksys”.) Hackers know these defaults and can check these against your network. Change your SSID to something unique and not something related to your company or the networking products you use.

Change your SSID regularly so that any hackers who have gained access to your wireless network will have to start from the beginning in trying to break in.

MAC Addresses. Enable MAC Address filtering. MAC Address filtering will allow you to provide access to only those wireless nodes with certain MAC Addresses. This makes it harder for a hacker to access your network with a random MAC Address.

WEP Encryption. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is often looked upon as a cure-all for wireless security concerns. This is overstating WEP’s ability. Again, this can only provide enough security to make a hacker’s job more difficult.

There are several ways that WEP can be maximized:

1.Use the highest level of encryption possible

2.Use “Shared Key” authentication

3.Change your WEP key regularly

WPA. Pre-Shared Key (WPA) is the newest and best available standard in Wi-Fi security. WPA2 is the newer version of Pre-Shared Key with stronger encryption than WPA. WPA gives you a choice of two encryption methods: TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol), which utilizes a stronger encryption method and incorporates Message Integrity Code (MIC) to provide protection against hackers, and AES (Advanced Encryption System), which utilizes a symmetric 128-Bit block data encryption. WPA-Enterprise and WPA2-Enterprise use a RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) server for authentication. RADIUS uses a RADIUS server and WEP encryption.

Appendix B: Wireless Security

IMPORTANT: Always remember that each device in your wireless network MUST use the same encryption method and encryption key or your wireless network will not function properly.

Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks

WAG300N specifications

The Linksys WAG300N is a highly versatile wireless modem router, designed to meet the needs of both home and small office environments. This device combines multiple functionalities, featuring a Wireless-N access point, a 4-port Ethernet switch, and an integrated DSL modem. Its compatibility with ADSL2+ standards allows for seamless internet connectivity, ensuring that users can experience high-speed internet up to 24 Mbps, depending on their DSL connection.

One of the defining characteristics of the WAG300N is its support for the IEEE 802.11n wireless standard, which provides significantly improved data transfer rates over its predecessors. This technology allows for speeds of up to 300 Mbps, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications such as streaming high-definition videos, online gaming, and large file downloads. The router's MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology enhances wireless coverage, enabling connections at greater distances and through obstacles like walls.

Security is a key concern for Linksys, and the WAG300N addresses this with a variety of robust features. It supports WPA, WPA2, and WEP encryption for secure wireless connection and includes a built-in firewall to protect the network from unwanted intrusions. Parental controls are also available, allowing users to manage internet access, ensuring a safer online environment for children.

The Linksys WAG300N is easy to set up and manage thanks to its web-based interface. Users can quickly configure the device using the installation CD or through a straightforward online setup wizard. Furthermore, firmware updates can be performed easily, allowing users to keep their devices secure and up to date with the latest features.

In terms of design, the WAG300N boasts a sleek black casing with LED indicators for power, internet connectivity, and wireless activity, enabling users to monitor device status at a glance. Its compact size ensures it does not occupy excessive space, making it an attractive addition to any office or home environment.

Overall, the Linksys WAG300N is a powerful networking device that offers great performance, advanced security features, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their internet connectivity experience. Whether for casual browsing or resource-intensive tasks, the WAG300N stands out with its blend of speed, reliability, and versatility.