Set up a Client with WPA-Personal (TKIP) or WPA2-Personal (TKIP) Security Settings

WPA Personal Mode requires manual configuration of a pre-shared key (PSK) on the access point and clients. This PSK authenticates users a password or identifying code, on both the client station and the access point. An authentication server is not needed. WPA Personal Mode is targeted to home and small business environments.

WPA2 is the second generation of WPA security that provides enterprise and consumer wireless users with a high level of assurance that only authorized users can access their wireless networks. WPA2 provides a stronger encryption mechanism through Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which is a requirement for some corporate and government users.

To configure a profile with WPA-Personal network authentication and TKIP data encryption:

1.On the Intel PROSet/Wireless main window, double-click an Infrastructure network in the Wireless Networks list or select the network and click Connect.

NOTE: Infrastructure networks are identified with an access point image () in the Wireless Networks and Profiles list.

2.Click Profiles to access the Profiles list.

3.Click Properties to open the Wireless Profile Properties' General Settings. The Profile name and Wireless Network Name (SSID) display. Network (Infrastructure) should be selected as the Operating Mode.

4.Click Next to access the Security Settings.

5.Security Settings: Select WPA-Personal (TKIP) to provide security to a small business network or home environment. A password, called a pre-shared key (PSK), is used. The longer the password, the stronger the security of the wireless network.

If your wireless access point or router supports WPA2-Personal then you should enable it on the access point and provide a long, strong password. The longer the password, the stronger the security of the wireless network. The same password entered in the access point needs to be used on this computer and all other wireless devices that access the wireless network.

NOTE: WPA-Personal and WPA2-Personal are not interoperable.

6.Wireless Security Password (Encryption Key): Enter a text phrase with eight to 63 characters. Verify that the network key matches the password in the wireless access point.

7.Click OK to return to the Profiles list.

Set up a Client with WPA-Personal (AES-CCMP) or WPA2-Personal (AES-CCMP) Security Settings

Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is a security enhancement that strongly increases the level of data protection and access control to a wireless network. WPA enforces 802.1x authentication and key-exchange and only works with dynamic encryption keys. For a home user or small business, WPA-Personal utilizes either Advanced Encryption Standard - Counter CBC-MAC Protocol (AES-CCMP) or Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP).

To configure a profile with WPA2-Personal network authentication and AES-CCMP data encryption:

1.On the Profile page, select a profile.

2.Click Properties to open the Wireless Profile Properties' General Settings. The Profile name and Wireless Network Name (SSID) display. Network (Infrastructure) should be selected as the Operating Mode.

3.Click Next. The Security Settings page opens.

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Intel 3945ABG specifications Click Next. The Security Settings page opens
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3945ABG specifications

The Intel 3945ABG is a wireless networking adapter that played a significant role in advancing wireless connectivity in laptops and portable devices. Introduced in the mid-2000s, this adapter is notable for its dual-band capabilities and compliance with the IEEE 802.11 a/b/g standards. It supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, enabling users to connect to a variety of wireless networks while offering improved performance and flexibility.

One of the standout features of the Intel 3945ABG is its support for MIMO technology, which stands for Multiple Input Multiple Output. This innovative technology enhances data transmission rates and increases the range of wireless connections by utilizing multiple antennas for sending and receiving data. MIMO allows the adapter to operate more efficiently in environments with obstacles, such as walls or furniture, making it an ideal choice for users who need reliable connectivity in varied settings.

The Intel 3945ABG adapter also includes Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and WPA2 security protocols, ensuring that data transmitted over the wireless network remains secure. This is especially important in a time when wireless networks became progressively more vulnerable to unauthorized access and data breaches. The adapter's compatibility with these security standards aids users in establishing secure communications, whether for casual web browsing or sensitive tasks.

In terms of performance, the Intel 3945ABG offers maximum theoretical speeds of up to 54 Mbps in the 802.11a and 802.11g modes, while maintaining lower speeds in the 802.11b mode (up to 11 Mbps). In practical use, this means that users can achieve high data transfer rates in optimal conditions, making it suitable for video streaming, online gaming, and large file downloads.

The Intel 3945ABG also integrates seamlessly with Intel's Centrino mobile technology, which enhances power efficiency and optimizes the overall performance of a laptop. This synergy not only extends battery life but also provides a smooth user experience, as it allows the adapter to effectively manage network resources and maintain a stable connection.

In summary, the Intel 3945ABG wireless adapter is characterized by its dual-band support, MIMO technology, robust security features, and integration with Intel's Centrino technology. While it may now be considered outdated by modern standards, it served as an important stepping stone in the evolution of wireless networking technology and continues to be remembered for its contributions to mobile connectivity.
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