Linksys RT042 manual Introduction, Welcome

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Broadband Router

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

Thank you for choosing the Broadband Router. The Linksys Broadband Router with QoS is a kind of "splitter" for your Internet connection. Just connect your DSL or Cable Modem to the Router, and all the computers in your home or office can share the Internet at the same time. Use the built-in 4-port switch to attach four local PCs directly, or daisy-chain out to more hubs and switches as your network grows. It has Auto MDI/MDI-X cross-over detection so you don't have to worry about the cable type.

The Router's QoS (Quality of Service) feature lets you define the amount of the available bandwidth for each of the devices on your network. This means that you can prioritize time-sensitive data like Voice Over IP phone calls or streaming media ahead of less sensitive email and web surfing. The dual Internet ports let you optionally connect a second Internet line for additional bandwidth.

Of course, once your computers are connected to the Internet through the Router, they can communicate with each other too, sharing resources and files. All your computers can print on a shared printer connected anywhere in the home. And you can share all kinds of files between computers, like music, digital pictures, and other documents.

In addition to this, you can control access to the Internet through the Router’s Parental Control features. This allows you to set a schedule, see what websites and programs are being used, optimize performance, and block those sites you don’t wish to be accessed.

This user guide will give you all the information you need to connect, set up, and configure your Router.

Chapter 1: Introduction

broadband: an always-on, fast Internet connection.

network: a series of computers or devices connected for the purpose of data sharing, storage, and/or transmission between users.

bandwidth: the transmission capacity of a given device or network.

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) : a networking protocol that allows administrators to assign temporary IP addresses to network computers by "leasing" an IP address to a user for a limited amount of time.

browser: an application program that provides a way to look at and interact with all the information on the Internet.

Ethernet: a network protocol that specifies how data is placed on and retrieved from a common transmission medium.

firewall: a set of related programs located at a network gateway server that protects the resources of a network from users from other networks.

router: a networking device that connects multiple networks together.

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Welcome

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Contents Broadband Router Copyright and Trademarks How to Use this GuideWord definition Table of Contents Appendix B Upgrading Firmware Appendix a TroubleshootingAppendix D Using the RT042 Utility Common Problems and Solutions Frequently Asked QuestionsAdd/Edit New Applications List of Figures22 Service Management Welcome IntroductionFirmware the programming code that runs a networking device What’s in this Guide?Introduction What’s in this Guide? Packet a unit of data sent over a network Networking BasicsAn Introduction to LANs Use of IP AddressesUse of IP Addresses LEDs Getting to Know the Broadband RouterBack and Side Panels Reset ButtonPorts Overview Connecting the Broadband RouterConnect a PC Connection InstructionsSystem Summary Tab Setting Up and Configuring the Broadband RouterDomain a specific name for a network of computers Advanced Setup TabSystem Information How to Access the Web-based UtilityUser Usage ISP Bandwidth User BandwidthInternet Connection Type LAN SettingPptp Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol Basic Setup Tab PasswordBasic Setup Tab MAC Clone Basic Setup Tab TimeTime Parental Control Tab Website Hit Rate Parental Control Tab On-Line SchedulerParental Control Tab Performance Optimization Parental Control Tab Application UsageAdding/Editing New Applications 19 Parental Control Tab Block List Parental Control Tab Block ListAdvanced Setup Tab Forwarding Advanced Setup Tab DMZ HostPort Range Forwarding Port Triggering Advanced Setup Tab UPnPAdvanced Setup Tab Advanced Routing Advanced Setup Tab DdnsDynamic Routing Enter the following data to create a static route entry Static RoutingAdvanced Setup Tab Remote Management Advanced Setup Tab VPN Pass ThroughDiagnostics Advanced Setup Tab System ManagementExport Configuration File Factory DefaultFirmware Upgrade Import Configuration FileSyslog Log Tab System LogMail Log Tab System Statistics Log SettingNeed to set a static IP address on a PC Appendix a TroubleshootingCommon Problems and Solutions For Windows 98 and MillenniumFor Windows XP For WindowsFor Windows 98 and Millennium Broadband Router Am not able to access the Router’s Web-based Utility Setup Need to set up a server behind my Router Application Start and End Protocol IP Address EnableApplication Start and End Protocol IP Address Enabled Click the DMZ Host tab Can’t get the Internet game, server, or application to workFor Netscape 4.7 or higher To start over, I need to set the Router to factory defaultNeed to upgrade the firmware For Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 or higherNeed to use port triggering My DSL service’s PPPoE is always disconnectingDoes the Router support IPX or AppleTalk? Frequently Asked QuestionsWhere is the Router installed on the network? Is IPSec Passthrough supported by the Router?How can I block corrupted FTP downloads? How many ports can be simultaneously forwarded? What is DMZ Hosting?Will the Router function in a Macintosh environment? Is the Router cross-platform compatible?How do I get mIRC to work with the Router? How can I check whether I have static or Dhcp IP addresses?Appendix B Upgrading Firmware Figure B-1 Advanced Setup Tab System ManagementWindows 2000 or XP Instructions Windows 98 or Me InstructionsFigure C-3 MAC Address/Physical Address For the Router’s Web-based UtilityStarting the Utility Appendix D Using the RT042 UtilityRouter Information Usage Configuration ScreensFigure D-3 The On-Line Scheduler Hit Rate On-Line SchedulerPerformance Optimization Real Time UsageFigure E-1 Basic Setup Tab Network Appendix E The Setup WizardFigure E-4 Obtain an IP automatically Figure E-5 Static IP Shared Resources Appendix F Windows HelpNetwork Neighborhood/My Network Places Appendix G Glossary Broadband Router Broadband Router Broadband Router FCC Appendix H SpecificationsLimited Warranty Appendix I Warranty InformationFCC Statement Appendix J Regulatory InformationAppendix K Contact Information

RT042 specifications

The Linksys RT042 is a dual-band wireless router designed to deliver robust performance and extensive coverage for home and small office networks. As a product from Linksys, a leader in networking solutions, the RT042 stands out with its advanced features and technologies that cater to users' varying connectivity needs.

One of the main highlights of the Linksys RT042 is its dual-band capability. Operating on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, this router provides flexibility and minimizes interference, allowing users to choose the most suitable band for their devices. The 5GHz band is particularly useful for bandwidth-intensive applications such as gaming and HD video streaming, while the 2.4GHz band offers greater range for everyday activities like browsing and email.

The RT042 supports the latest Wi-Fi standards, including 802.11ac, which enhances overall speed and efficiency. Users can experience lightning-fast wireless speeds, making it an ideal choice for households with multiple devices connected simultaneously. The router also employs Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology, which uses multiple antennas to improve signal quality and data throughput, ensuring a stable connection even in crowded environments.

Another notable feature is its four Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for wired connections to devices such as gaming consoles and desktop computers. These ports provide faster and more reliable connections compared to standard Ethernet. Additionally, the RT042 includes a USB port, enabling users to connect external storage devices or printers for easy sharing across the network.

Security is a top priority for the Linksys RT042, which comes equipped with advanced WPA2 encryption. This ensures that user data is protected from unauthorized access. Furthermore, the router includes features such as a firewall and VPN support, providing an added layer of security for sensitive information.

The RT042 is also designed with user-friendliness in mind. It features an intuitive web interface for easy setup and management, making it accessible even for those with limited technical knowledge. The router can be easily configured through a mobile app, allowing users to monitor their network from anywhere.

In summary, the Linksys RT042 is a versatile and powerful dual-band wireless router that combines advanced technology, robust security features, and user-friendly design. Whether for streaming, gaming, or everyday browsing, this router is an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their internet experience.
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