Linksys WMP54G manual Appendix C Wireless Security

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Wireless-G PCI Adapter

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. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is the newest and best available standard in Wi-Fi security. Three modes are available: WPA-Personal, WPA Radius, and Radius. Radius-PSK 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 RADIUS offers two encryption methods, TKIP and AES, with dynamic encryption keys. RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) utilizes a RADIUS server for authentication.

Appendix C: 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.

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Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks

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Contents Wireless- G How to Use This User Guide Copyright and TrademarksWord definition Table of Contents Setup Wizard’s License Agreement Setup Wizard’s Welcome Screen31 Confirm New Settings 32 Wireless Security WEP Introduction WelcomeAdapter a device that adds network functionality to your PC What’s in this Guide? Wireless-G PCI Adapter Network Topology Planning your Wireless NetworkRoaming Topology the physical layout of a networkNetwork Layout Starting the Setup Wizard Setting up and Connecting the USB Network AdapterWindows will begin copying the files onto your PC Installing the AdapterAvailable Wireless Network Setting Up the AdapterSecure Easy Setup Logo and Location Setting Up the Adapter with Secure Easy Setup10 Secure Easy Setup Complete Changes, refer to Using the Wireless Network MonitorEncryption encoding data transmitted in a network Setting Up the Adapter with Available Networks14 PSK2 Needed for Connection Changes, refer to Using the Wireless Network Monitor 17 Network Settings Setting Up the Adapter with Manual Setup18 Wireless Mode WEP PSK2 WPA PersonalEAP-TLS WPA EnterpriseRadius Leap 29 Confirm New Settings Accessing the Wireless Network Monitor Using the Wireless Network MonitorWireless Network Status screen Link Information ScreensWireless Network Status Wireless Network Statistics Secure Easy Setup Button Secure Easy SetupSecure Easy Setup is Complete Site Information Site SurveyProfile Information Profiles15 Export a Profile Creating a New Profile19 The Secure Easy Setup Logo and Location 21 Secure Easy Setup Complete 22 Available Wireless Network 25 PSK2 Needed for Connection 26 The Congratulations Screen 28 Network Settings 31 Wireless Security 32 Wireless Security WEP 33 Wireless Security WPA Personal 36 Wireless Security WPA Enterprise Peap 37 Wireless Security Radius EAP-TLS 39 Leap 41 The Congratulations Screen Appendix a Troubleshooting Common Problems and SolutionsWireless-G PCI Adapter does not work properly What is the Ieee 802.11b standard? Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the Ieee 802.11g standard? What Ieee 802.11b features are supported?What is infrastructure mode? What is ad-hoc mode?What is roaming? What is ISM band?What is WEP? What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences?What is WPA? What is RADIUS?Figure B-1 Wireless Network Monitor Icon Appendix B Using Windows XP Wireless ConfigurationFigure B-4 Available Wireless Network Figure B-6 Network Connection Wireless Security Appendix C Wireless Security Security PrecautionsSecurity Threats Facing Wireless Networks Appendix C Wireless Security Wireless-G PCI Adapter Appendix D Windows Help Shared ResourcesNetwork Neighborhood/My Network Places Appendix E Glossary Wireless-G PCI Adapter Wireless-G PCI Adapter Appendix F Specifications Modulation802.11g Ofdm Limited Warranty Appendix G Warranty InformationFCC Statement Appendix H Regulatory InformationSafety Notices Appendix I Contact Information
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WMP54G specifications

The Linksys WMP54G is a high-performance wireless PCI adapter that was designed to bring reliable connectivity to desktop computers. Launched as part of Linksys' range of networking products, the WMP54G quickly gained popularity among users seeking a dependable solution for wireless networking in their homes or small offices.

One of the standout features of the WMP54G is its compliance with the 802.11g wireless standard. This technology allows for data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps, making it suitable for tasks such as streaming audio and video, online gaming, and file sharing. The adapter is also backward compatible with the 802.11b standard, enabling it to work seamlessly with older wireless devices, ensuring users are not left behind as they upgrade their equipment.

The WMP54G is equipped with a powerful external antenna that enhances its range and signal strength. This allows users to maintain a strong wireless connection even when they are far from the router, making it ideal for larger homes or office spaces. It also supports WEP, WPA, and WPA2 security protocols, providing users with multiple layers of security to protect their data and network from unauthorized access.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the WMP54G is its ease of installation and use. The adapter is provided with a user-friendly setup wizard that guides users through the configuration process, making it accessible even for those who may not be tech-savvy. Once installed, the WMP54G offers robust performance, with consistent connections and minimal interference.

The adapter's design is also compact and lightweight, making it a suitable option for machines with limited internal space. Its PCI form factor allows for easy integration into most desktop PCs. Additionally, it comes with status LEDs that indicate when the device is powered on, and when it is connected to a wireless network, providing users with instant feedback on their connection status.

In summary, the Linksys WMP54G is a versatile and reliable wireless adapter that has cemented its place in the networking landscape. With its familiarity with various standards, strong security features, and user-friendly installation, it remains a recommended choice for users looking to enhance their wireless connectivity at home or in the office.
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