Linksys WPC54G Introduction, Welcome, Adapter a device that adds network functionality to your PC

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Wireless-G Notebook Adapter

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome

Thank you for choosing the Wireless-G Notebook 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. For more information about wireless networks, refer to Chapter 2: Planning Your 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 PC Card slot and enjoy your wireless network. Future changes to your network settings can be made with the Wireless Network Monitor, explained in Chapter 6.

Further information about the Adapter’s functions can be found in Appendix A: Troubleshooting. If you’re concerned about wireless security, Appendix B shows you how to keep your network secure. Further appendices provide more information about the Adapter and networking in general to help you get the most out of the Wireless-G Notebook Adapter.

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

802.11g a wireless networking standard that specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps and an operating frequency of 2.4GHz.

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

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

Chapter 1: Introduction

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Welcome

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Contents Wireless- G Copyright and Trademarks Word definitionTable of Contents List of Figures Front Panel21 EAP-MD5 Authentication Introduction WelcomeAdapter a device that adds network functionality to your PC What’s in this Guide? Wireless-G Notebook Adapter Roaming Planning your Wireless NetworkNetwork Topology Topology the physical layout of a networkPlanning your Wireless Network Network LayoutPower Getting to Know the Wireless-G Notebook AdapterLED Indicators LinkSoftware Installation and Configuration Software instructions for the computerInstallation Procedure Setup Wizard’s Wireless Mode ScreenWEP Bit a binary digitSetup Wizard’s Check Settings Screen WPA-PSKSetup Wizard’s Congratulations Screen Hardware Installation Connecting the AdapterUsing the Wireless Network Monitor Accessing the Wireless Network MonitorLink Information Encryption encoding data transmitted in a network Internet traffic from your local area networkWireless Network Statistics Byte a unit of data that is usually eight bits longSite Survey Site InformationProfiles Profile InformationCreating a New Profile On the Profiles screen, click New to create a new profile11 Ad-Hoc Mode Settings 12 Network Settings 13 Wireless Security for New Profile 15 WPA-PSK Settings 17 WPA Radius Settings WPA RadiusEAP-MD5 EAP-TLSEAP-TTLS EAP-PEAP24 Radius Settings Radius27 EAP-MD5 Authentication 30 Confirm New Settings Appendix a Troubleshooting Common Problems and SolutionsWireless-G Notebook Adapter does not work properly What is the 802.11g standard? Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the 802.11b standard? What 802.11b features are supported?What is roaming? What is ad-hoc mode?What is infrastructure mode? What is ISM band?What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences? What is WEP?Appendix B Wireless Security Security PrecautionsSecurity Threats Facing Wireless Networks Appendix B Wireless Security Wireless-G Notebook Adapter Appendix C Windows Help TCP/IPAppendix D Glossary Wireless-G Notebook Adapter Wireless-G Notebook Adapter Wireless-G Notebook Adapter Appendix E Specifications Appendix F Warranty Information Limited WarrantyAppendix G Regulatory Information FCC StatementIndustry Canada Canada EC Declaration of Conformity Europe Safety Notices Appendix H Contact Information
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WPC54G specifications

The Linksys WPC54G is a wireless network adapter specifically designed for laptops and portable devices, enabling users to connect to wireless networks seamlessly. As a member of the Linksys family, the WPC54G provides robust functionality paired with ease of use, making it a popular choice for home and office environments.

One of the standout features of the WPC54G is its support for the IEEE 802.11g standard, which allows for wireless data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This technology provides a significant upgrade over older standards, enabling users to enjoy faster internet speeds and smoother streaming experiences. The WPC54G is also backward compatible with the 802.11b standard, ensuring it can connect to a wide range of wireless networks.

The device employs a PCI card form factor, which makes it easy to install in most laptops. Compatibility with a range of operating systems, including Windows and Linux, enhances its versatility. The card offers a reliable connection through its use of advanced wireless technologies such as the use of Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology, improving signal strength and stability. This allows the WPC54G to deliver high-speed connections even at greater distances from the access point.

Equipped with WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption protocols, the Linksys WPC54G prioritizes security, giving users peace of mind when accessing unsecured networks. This feature is especially important in today’s digital landscape, where data privacy and security are paramount.

Another significant characteristic of the WPC54G is its ease of setup. The included utility allows users to manage their connections and configure settings effortlessly, making it accessible even to those who are not technically savvy. The card also features a Linksys Easy Setup Assistant, guiding users through the installation process step by step.

In terms of physical attributes, the WPC54G is compact and designed to fit snugly into PC Card slots, ensuring portability without compromising performance. Overall, the Linksys WPC54G wireless network adapter remains a reliable choice for users seeking speed, security, and ease of use in their wireless connectivity solutions, solidifying its place in the market as a dependable networking device.
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