Linksys WRT54GC manual Appendix B Wireless Security, Security Precautions

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Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Appendix B: Wireless Security

Linksys wants to make wireless networking as safe and easy for you as possible. The current generation of Linksys products provide several network security features, but they require specific action on your part for implementation. So, keep the following in mind whenever you are setting up or using your wireless network.

Security Precautions

The following is a complete list of security precautions to take (at least steps 1 through 5 should be followed):

1.Change the default SSID.

2.Disable SSID Broadcast.

3.Change the default password for the Administrator account.

4.Enable MAC Address Filtering.

5.Change the SSID periodically.

6.Use the highest encryption algorithm possible. Use WPA if it is available. Please note that this may reduce your network performance.

7.Change the WEP encryption keys periodically.

For information on implementing these security features, refer to “Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless- G Broadband Router.”

Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks

Wireless networks are easy to find. Hackers know that in order to join a wireless network, wireless networking products first listen for “beacon messages”. These messages can be easily decrypted and contain much of the network’s information, such as the network’s SSID (Service Set Identifier). Here are the steps you can take:

Change the administrator’s password regularly. With every wireless networking device you use, keep in mind that network settings (SSID, WEP keys, etc.) are stored in its firmware. Your network administrator is the only person who can change network settings. If a hacker gets a hold of the administrator’s password, he, too, can change those settings. So, make it harder for a hacker to get that information. Change the administrator’s password regularly.

Appendix B: Wireless Security

Note: Some of these security features are available only through the network router or access point. Refer to the router or access point’s documentation for more information.

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Security Precautions

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Contents Wireless- G Copyright and Trademarks How to Use This User GuideWord definition Table of Contents Appendix a Troubleshooting Appendix B Wireless SecurityCommon Problems and Solutions Frequently Asked Questions Appendix C Upgrading Firmware Appendix D Windows HelpRouter’s Back Panel Router’s Front Panel20 Wireless Tab Wireless Client List Introduction WelcomeWhat’s in this Guide? Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router Planning Your Wireless Network Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure ModeSsid your wireless network’s name Network TopologyPlanning Your Wireless Network Network Layout Back Panel Getting to Know the Compact Wireless-G Broadband RouterBroadband an always-on, fast Internet connection Power Front PanelStand Reset Button Bottom PanelTop Panel Optional Linksys Longer Range Antenna HGA7S TABConnecting the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router OverviewConnecting Your Network Devices Hardware Installation for Connection to Another Router Connecting Another RouterConnecting Your Network Devices Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router Setup Tab Basic Setup How to Access the Web-based UtilityInternet Setup Static IP Connection Type Packet a unit of data sent over a networkNetwork Setup Optional SettingsDhcp Server Settings Setup Tab Ddns Time SettingsSetup Tab MAC Address Clone MAC Address CloneSetup Tab Advanced Routing 12 Setup Tab Advanced Routing GatewayWireless Tab Basic Wireless Settings Wireless NetworkWireless Tab Wireless Security Wireless Security17 Wireless Tab Wireless Security WPA2 Personal Wireless Tab Wireless MAC Filter Wireless MAC FilterWireless Tab Advanced Wireless Settings Advanced WirelessCompact Wireless-G Broadband Router Security Tab Firewall FirewallAccess Restrictions Tab Internet Access Policy Internet Access PolicySecurity Tab VPN Passthrough VPN PassthroughTo create an Internet Access policy 25 Access Restrictions Tab SummaryApplications and Gaming Tab Port Range Forwarding Port Range ForwardingCompact Wireless-G Broadband Router Applications & Gaming Tab Port Range Triggering Port Range TriggeringApplications and Gaming Tab DMZ DMZAdministration Tab Management ManagementBackup and Restore Administration Tab Log LogAdministration Tab Diagnostics DiagnosticsAdministration Tab Factory Defaults Administration Tab Firmware UpgradeFactory Defaults Firmware UpgradeRouter Information Status Tab RouterInternet Connection Local Network Status Tab Local NetworkDhcp Server Status Tab Wireless 41 Status Tab WirelessCommon Problems and Solutions Appendix a TroubleshootingNeed to set a static IP address on a PC Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router Open a command prompt. For Windows 98SE and Me Protocol IP Address Enabled ApplicationApplication Start ~ End Port Protocol IP Address Enabled Can’t get the Internet game, server, or application to workCompact Wireless-G Broadband Router To start over, I need to set the Router to factory default Need to upgrade the firmwareFirmware upgrade failed, and/or the Power LED is flashing My DSL service’s PPPoE is always disconnectingPower LED keeps flashing Frequently Asked Questions Where is the Router installed on the network?Is IPSec Pass-Through supported by the Router? Does the Router support IPX or AppleTalk?How can I block corrupted FTP downloads? What is DMZ Hosting? What are the advanced features of the Router?Will the Router function in a Macintosh environment? Is the Router cross-platform compatible?What is the Ieee 802.11a standard? What is the Ieee 802.11b standard?What is the Ieee 802.11g standard? What Ieee 802.11a features are supported?What Ieee 802.11b features are supported? What Ieee 802.11g features are supported?What is ad-hoc mode? What is infrastructure mode?What is ISM band? What is Spread Spectrum?What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences? What is WEP?How do I reset the Router? How do I resolve issues with signal loss?Security Precautions Appendix B Wireless SecuritySecurity Threats Facing Wireless Networks Appendix B Wireless Security Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router Figure C-1 Administration Tab Firmware Upgrade Appendix C Upgrading FirmwareShared Resources Appendix D Windows HelpNetwork Neighborhood/My Network Places Windows 98SE or Me Instructions Windows 2000 or XP InstructionsFigure E-4 Wireless MAC Filter List For the Router’s Web-based UtilityAppendix F Glossary Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router Appendix G Specifications ModelCertifications Appendix H Warranty Information Limited WarrantyAppendix I Regulatory Information FCC StatementSafety Notices Appendix J Contact Information
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WRT54GC specifications

The Linksys WRT54GC is a compact and versatile wireless router that has garnered attention for its impressive performance and functionality. It's part of Linksys' renowned WRT series, known for its reliability and user-friendly features, making it a popular choice for home and small office networking.

One of the main features of the WRT54GC is its support for the 802.11g wireless standard, allowing for wireless speeds of up to 54 Mbps. This makes it suitable for tasks such as web browsing, email, and streaming media, offering users a reliable connection without significant lag. Additionally, the router is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, ensuring that older equipment can still connect seamlessly.

The WRT54GC sports a compact design, making it ideal for users with limited space. Its small footprint does not compromise its performance, as it delivers strong coverage thanks to its two external antennas. This design enables users to extend their wireless signal throughout their homes or offices, reducing dead zones and enhancing connectivity.

Security is a key aspect of the WRT54GC, as it offers WPA2 encryption, providing a robust defense against unauthorized access. The router also supports MAC address filtering, which adds an extra layer of security by allowing only recognized devices to connect to the network. These features ensure that users can enjoy their wireless experience with peace of mind.

Another notable characteristic of the WRT54GC is its ease of setup and management. The device comes with a user-friendly web-based interface that simplifies the configuration process, allowing users to establish their network quickly. With features like DHCP, users can also assign IP addresses automatically, streamlining network management for both novices and advanced users alike.

The integrated four-port Ethernet switch adds to the router's versatility, allowing users to connect wired devices directly. This is particularly beneficial for devices that require a stable connection, such as gaming consoles or desktop computers.

In summary, the Linksys WRT54GC router stands out for its compact design, reliable wireless performance, strong security features, and user-friendly management options. It caters to the needs of both casual internet users and small businesses, making it a timeless choice in the landscape of consumer networking devices.
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