Section 4 - Security

Wireless Security

This section will show you the different levels of security you can use to protect your data from intruders. The DIR-651 offers the following types of security:

• WPA2(Wi-Fi Protected Access 2)

WPA2-PSK (Pre-Shared Key)

• WPA(Wi-Fi Protected Access)

WPA-PSK (Pre-Shared Key)

What is WPA?

WPA, or Wi-Fi Protected Access, is a Wi-Fi standard that was designed to improve the security features of WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy).

The 2 major improvements over WEP:

Improved data encryption through the Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP). TKIP scrambles the keys using a hashing algorithm and, by adding an integrity-checking feature, ensures that the keys haven’t been tampered with. WPA2 is based on 802.11i and uses Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) instead of TKIP.

User authentication, which is generally missing in WEP, through the extensible authentication protocol (EAP). WEP regulates access to a wireless network based on a computer’s hardware-specific MAC address, which is relatively simple to be sniffed out and stolen. EAP is built on a more secure public-key encryption system to ensure that only authorized network users can access the network.

WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK uses a passphrase or key to authenticate your wireless connection. The key is an alpha-numeric password between 8 and 63 characters long. The password can include symbols (!?*&_) and spaces. This key must be the exact same key entered on your wireless router or access point.

WPA/WPA2 incorporates user authentication through the Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP). EAP is built on a more secure public key encryption system to ensure that only authorized network users can access the network.

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D-Link DIR-651 manual Wireless Security, What is WPA?

DIR-651 specifications

The D-Link DIR-651 is a versatile wireless router designed to offer a reliable and high-performance networking solution for home and small office environments. With its robust feature set, this device stands out as an excellent option for users seeking a seamless internet experience.

At the core of the DIR-651 is its dual-band capability, which operates on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands. This dual-band functionality allows users to optimize their wireless connections, reducing interference and ensuring smoother performance for bandwidth-intensive applications such as online gaming, HD streaming, and video conferencing. The router supports IEEE 802.11ac standards, delivering data transfer rates of up to 1200 Mbps.

One of the standout features of the DIR-651 is its internal antenna design, which enhances signal strength and coverage throughout your home or office. This enables users to enjoy stable connections even in large spaces, minimizing dead zones and ensuring that all devices connected to the network have reliable access to the internet.

The DIR-651 is equipped with multiple Fast Ethernet ports, allowing for wired connections to desktop computers, gaming consoles, and other devices. This is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize speed and stability over wireless connections for critical applications. Additionally, the router supports advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features, which allow users to prioritize bandwidth for specific applications, ensuring optimal performance for critical tasks.

Security is a top priority for the DIR-651, which comes with advanced security protocols including WPA/WPA2 encryption. This helps protect your network from unauthorized access and ensures that your connection remains secure. The router also features a built-in firewall and supports virtual private network (VPN) functionality, adding another layer of security for users concerned about online privacy.

Setup and management of the DIR-651 is user-friendly, thanks to its intuitive web interface and D-Link's DNS-based dynamic DNS service. The router can be configured easily via a web browser, and users can monitor their network traffic and manage connected devices with a few clicks.

Overall, the D-Link DIR-651 combines advanced technologies and features to provide users with a fast, reliable, and secure networking solution. Whether for streaming, gaming, or general web browsing, this router is designed to meet the demands of today's digital lifestyle, making it a valuable addition to any home or small office network.