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D-Link WAP54G manual Does the Access Point function as a firewall?

Models: WAP54G

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Instant Wireless® Series

worldwide. This presents a truly revolutionary opportunity to place convenient high speed wireless capabilities in the hands of users around the globe.

What is Spread Spectrum?

Spread Spectrum technology is a wideband radio frequency technique devel- oped by the military for use in reliable, secure, mission-critical communica- tions systems. It is designed to trade off bandwidth efficiency for reliability, integrity, and security. In other words, more bandwidth is consumed than in the case of narrowband transmission, but the trade-off produces a signal that is, in effect, louder and thus easier to detect, provided that the receiver knows the parameters of the spread-spectrum signal being broadcast. If a receiver is not tuned to the right frequency, a spread-spectrum signal looks like background noise. There are two main alternatives, Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS).

What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences?

Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) uses a narrowband carrier that changes frequency in a pattern that is known to both transmitter and receiver. Properly synchronized, the net effect is to maintain a single logical channel. To an unintended receiver, FHSS appears to be short-duration impulse noise. Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) generates a redundant bit pattern for each bit to be transmitted. This bit pattern is called a chip (or chipping code). The longer the chip, the greater the probability that the original data can be recovered. Even if one or more bits in the chip are damaged during transmis- sion, statistical techniques embedded in the radio can recover the original data without the need for retransmission. To an unintended receiver, DSSS appears as low power wideband noise and is rejected (ignored) by most narrowband receivers.

Would the information be intercepted while transmitting on air?

WLAN features two-fold protection in security. On the hardware side, as with Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum technology, it has the inherent security fea- ture of scrambling. On the software side, the WLAN series offers the encryp- tion function (WEP) to enhance security and access control. Users can set it up depending upon their needs.

Can Instant WirelessTM products support file and printer sharing?

Instant WirelessTM products perform the same function as LAN products. Therefore, Instant WirelessT M products can work with Netware, Windows NT/2000, or other LAN operating systems to support printer or file sharing.

Wireless-G Access Point

What is WEP?

WEP is Wired Equivalent Privacy, a data privacy mechanism based on a 40-bit shared-key algorithm, as described in the IEEE 802.11 standard.

What is a MAC Address?

The Media Access Control (MAC) address is a unique number assigned by the manufacturer to any Ethernet networking device, such as a network adapter, that allows the network to identify it at the hardware level. For all practical pur- poses, this number is usually permanent. Unlike IP addresses, which can change every time a computer logs on to the network, the MAC address of a device stays the same, making it a valuable identifier for the network.

How do I avoid interference?

Using multiple Access Points on the same channel and in close proximity to one another will generate interference. When employing multiple Access Points, be sure to operate each one on a different channel (frequency).

How do I reset the Access Point?

Press the Reset button on the back of the Access Point for about ten seconds. This will reset the unit to its default settings.

How do I resolve issues with signal loss?

There is no way to know the exact range of your wireless network without test- ing. Every obstacle placed between an Access Point and wireless PC will cre- ate signal loss. Leaded glass, metal, concrete floors, water and walls will inhib- it the signal and reduce range. Start with your Access Point and your wireless PC in the same room and move it away in small increments to determine the maximum range in your environment.

You may also try using different channels, as this may eliminate interference affecting only one channel. Also, due to FCC regulations, more power may be transmitted, using 802.11a, on channels 52, 56, 60 and 64, than on the lower channels. Lastly, check the Advanced tab of the Web-Based Utility and make sure that FULL is selected in the Transmission Rate field.

Does the Access Point function as a firewall?

No. The Access Point is only a bridge from wired Ethernet to wireless clients.

I have excellent signal strength, but I cannot see my network.

WEP is probably enabled on the Access Point, but not on your wireless adapter (or vice versa). Verify that the same WEP Keys and levels (64 or 128 ) are being used on all nodes on your wireless network.

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D-Link WAP54G manual Does the Access Point function as a firewall?
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WAP54G specifications

The D-Link WAP54G is a wireless access point that offers a variety of features aimed at enhancing network connectivity and performance. Designed for small to medium-sized environments, this device is an essential component for creating a reliable wireless network. With its impressive capabilities, the WAP54G easily integrates into existing networks, providing enhanced coverage and flexibility.

One of the main features of the WAP54G is its support for the IEEE 802.11g standard, which allows for data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This standard is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, ensuring that users can maintain connectivity with older hardware. This level of compatibility makes the WAP54G a versatile choice for diverse networking needs.

The device is equipped with advanced security features, including WPA and WPA2 encryption protocols, ensuring that users can protect their network from unauthorized access. These security measures are essential in today’s world, where data breaches are increasingly common. Additionally, the WAP54G supports MAC address filtering, which further restricts access to only authorized devices.

For connectivity, the WAP54G includes multiple Ethernet ports, allowing it to be connected directly to a wired network. This feature enables the access point to bridge the gap between wired and wireless devices, facilitating seamless communication. Moreover, the WAP54G supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), which simplifies installation by allowing it to receive power and data through a single Ethernet cable. This is particularly beneficial in environments where power outlets are limited or difficult to access.

Another noteworthy aspect of the WAP54G is its coverage capabilities. With its adjustable antennas, users can optimize signal distribution throughout a building, overcoming common obstacles such as walls and furniture that can hinder wireless performance. The access point also boasts a user-friendly web-based interface, making it easy to configure and manage settings for both novice and experienced users alike.

In terms of reliability, the D-Link WAP54G features a solid build quality and a compact design, allowing it to fit seamlessly into various environments. The device is also equipped with LED indicators that provide real-time status updates on power, Ethernet connection, and wireless activity, enabling users to monitor their network easily.

Overall, the D-Link WAP54G is a robust wireless access point that combines speed, security, and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for enhancing network performance in both home and office settings.