Linksys WMP54G Introduction, Welcome, Adapter a device that adds network functionality to your PC

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Wireless-G PCI Adapter

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

Thank you for choosing the Wireless-G PCI Adapter. With this Adapter, your wireless networking experience will be faster and easier than ever.

Like all wireless products, the Adapter allows for greater range and mobility within your wireless network. This adapter communicates over the 54Mbps 802.11g wireless standard, which is almost five times faster than 802.11b. But since they share the same 2.4GHz radio band, the Adapter can also communicate with the widely used 11Mbps 802.11b standard.

PCs equipped with wireless cards and adapters can communicate without cumbersome cables. By sharing the same wireless settings, within their transmission radius, they form a wireless network.

The included Setup Wizard will walk you through configuring the adapter to your network's settings, step by step. Then just slide it into your computer's PCI Card slot and enjoy network access with the freedom of wireless.

Once you're connected, you can keep in touch with your e-mail, access the Internet, and share files and other resources such as printers and network storage with other computers on the network. At home, you can surf the web or use instant messaging to chat with friends while sitting out on the patio. Your wireless connection is protected by the new, industrial-strength security of Wireless Protected Access (WPA).

And now, with SecureEasySetup, setting up your network and your Wireless-G PCI Adapter is easier than ever.

Get connected to current-standard 802.11b networks today, and be prepared for the future with the Wireless-G PCI Adapter from Linksys.

Chapter 1: Introduction

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

adapter: a device that adds network functionality to your PC.

Mbps: one million bits per second; a unit of measurement for data transmission

802.11g an IEEE wireless networking standard that specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps, an operating frequency of 2.4GHz, and backward compatibility with 802.11b devices.

802.11b: an IEEE wireless networking standard that specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps and an operating frequency of 2.4GHz

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Welcome

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Contents Wireless- G Copyright and Trademarks How to Use This User GuideWord definition Table of Contents Setup Wizard’s License Agreement Setup Wizard’s Welcome Screen31 Confirm New Settings 32 Wireless Security WEP Welcome IntroductionAdapter a device that adds network functionality to your PC What’s in this Guide? Wireless-G PCI Adapter Topology the physical layout of a network Planning your Wireless NetworkNetwork Topology RoamingNetwork 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 Link Information Screens Using the Wireless Network MonitorAccessing the Wireless Network Monitor Wireless Network Status screenWireless 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 Common Problems and Solutions Appendix a TroubleshootingWireless-G PCI Adapter does not work properly What Ieee 802.11b features are supported? Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the Ieee 802.11b standard? What is the Ieee 802.11g standard?What is ISM band? What is ad-hoc mode?What is infrastructure mode? What is roaming?What is RADIUS? What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences?What is WEP? What is WPA?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 Security Precautions Appendix C Wireless SecuritySecurity Threats Facing Wireless Networks Appendix C Wireless Security Wireless-G PCI Adapter Shared Resources Appendix D Windows HelpNetwork Neighborhood/My Network Places Appendix E Glossary Wireless-G PCI Adapter Wireless-G PCI Adapter Modulation Appendix F Specifications802.11g 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.