Configuring the Adapters: the AirPcap Control Panel

The AirPcap control panel (Figure 1) provides a convenient and intuitive way to configure the parameters of currently-connected AirPcap adapters. The changes made to an adapter using the AirPcap control panel will be reflected in all of the applications using that adapter.

To start the AirPcap control panel, click on

STARTPROGRAMSAirPcapAirPcap Control Panel

Select an Adapter from the

Drop-down List of Installed

AirPcap Adapters

Blink the Led of the

Selected Adapter

Select a Channel

from the

Drop-down List

of Available Channels

Figure 1: The AirPcap Control Panel. Settings Tab.

The drop-down list in the Interface box at the top of the panel presents a list of currently-installed adapters. Selecting one of the adapters in the list allows you to view/edit its configuration.

Identifying the AirPcap Adapters

The drop-down list identifies the USB AirPcap adapters using adapter numbers (e.g. 00, 01, …) and does not distinguish between AirPcap Classic, AirPcap Tx, and AirPcap Ex. Fortunately, the AirPcap adapters have an Led that can be caused to blink by first selecting the adapter from the drop-down list and clicking on the Blink Led button. This feature is useful in distinguishing among the USB AirPcap adapters when multiple adapters are plugged into your system and an easy way to associate the physical adapters with the adapter numbers assigned by the system.

AirPcap N appears as “AirPcap N Wireless Capture Device” in the drop- down list, making it easy to identify if it is present (see Figure 2).

AirPcap User’s Guide

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Cace Technologies AirPcap Wireless Capture Adapters manual Configuring the Adapters the AirPcap Control Panel

AirPcap Wireless Capture Adapters specifications

Cace Technologies AirPcap Wireless Capture Adapters are essential tools for network professionals aiming to monitor, analyze, and troubleshoot wireless networks. These innovative devices enable packet capture and analysis over 802.11 wireless networks, providing insights that are crucial for maintaining network integrity and performance.

One of the main features of AirPcap adapters is their ability to capture raw 802.11 packets in real time, including management, control, and data frames. This capability allows for a comprehensive view of wireless communications, assisting engineers in identifying issues like signal interference, unauthorized access points, and potential security breaches.

Another significant characteristic is the support for both 802.11a/b/g/n standards. This wide-ranging compatibility ensures that users can effectively analyze traffic across various network types, regardless of the generation of equipment being utilized. Additionally, AirPcap adapters are equipped with advanced features like packet injection, which is beneficial for testing network robustness and security defenses.

The wireless capture adapters are often praised for their seamless integration with popular analysis tools such as Wireshark. This combination provides users with a powerful interface for performing in-depth packet analysis, enabling the decoding of complex protocols and offering visualizations that aid in understanding network behaviors.

For ease of use, AirPcap adapters come equipped with a compact design and user-friendly software. They can be connected to laptops or portable devices, making them ideal for field use. Their portability ensures that field technicians or network analysts can perform assessments in various environments without the need for extensive setup or configurations.

Security is another critical aspect where AirPcap shines. These adapters allow for the capture of encrypted packets, provided the user has the appropriate decryption keys. This feature is particularly valuable for troubleshooting security protocols and ensuring that data transmitted over the network is secure.

In conclusion, Cace Technologies AirPcap Wireless Capture Adapters are versatile and powerful tools for any network engineer or security professional. With their ability to capture and analyze a wide range of wireless traffic, their compatibility with industry-standard tools, and their advanced features, AirPcap adapters are indispensable in today's increasingly wireless world. Whether used for routine monitoring, troubleshooting, or security assessments, these adapters offer a robust solution for wireless network management.