Wireless-G USB Network Adapter with SRX400

SSID. There are several things to keep in mind about the SSID:

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. Four modes are available: WPA-Personal, WPA2-Personal, WPA-Enterprise, and RADIUS. WPA-Personal 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 Standard), which utilizes a symmetric 128-Bit block data encryption. WPA2-Personal only uses AES encryption, which is stronger than TKIP. WPA-Enterprise 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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Cisco Systems WUSB54GX4 manual Appendix C Wireless Security
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WUSB54GX4 specifications

The Cisco Systems WUSB54GX4 is a versatile and efficient wireless USB adapter designed to enhance connectivity for a range of devices. This compact hardware solution, developed by Cisco, is particularly popular for users looking to upgrade their network capabilities with minimal fuss.

One of the standout features of the WUSB54GX4 is its support for the 802.11g wireless standard, which allows for data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This provides a reliable and robust connection, making it suitable for demanding tasks such as streaming videos or online gaming. Additionally, the device is backward compatible with the older 802.11b standard, ensuring that it can connect seamlessly to an array of routers and networks, regardless of their specifications.

Leveraging advanced MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology, the WUSB54GX4 offers not only improved range but also enhanced signal quality. MIMO technology utilizes multiple antennas to transmit and receive data, significantly boosting wireless performance and reducing interference. This is particularly useful in environments with heavy obstructions or where the signal must traverse longer distances.

The installation process for the WUSB54GX4 is user-friendly, making it accessible even for those who may not be tech-savvy. The adapter typically comes with a plug-and-play setup, which means that users can quickly connect it to their computers without complicated configurations. Additionally, the included software provides easy management of network settings, allowing users to monitor their connection and troubleshoot issues efficiently.

Another notable characteristic of the WUSB54GX4 is its portability. The compact design allows users to easily carry it and use it with various devices, making it an excellent choice for mobile professionals or individuals frequently on the move. Furthermore, it supports both Windows and Mac OS, broadening its usability across different platforms.

In conclusion, the Cisco Systems WUSB54GX4 exemplifies a robust wireless USB adapter offering useful features such as high-speed connectivity, MIMO technology, and ease of installation. Its compact size and compatibility with multiple operating systems make it a popular choice for enhancing wireless capabilities in various settings, from home offices to on-the-go scenarios.
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