An infrastructure network consists of one or more access points and one or more computers with wireless adapters installed. Each access point must have a wired connection to a wireless network.

Set up a Client with No Authentication or Data Encryption (None)

On the Intel(R) PROSet/Wireless main page, select one of the following methods to connect to an Infrastructure network:

●Double-click an Infrastructure network in the Wireless Networks list.

●Select an Infrastructure network in the Wireless Networks list. Click Connect. The Intel PROSet/Wireless software automatically detects the security settings for the wireless adapter.

If there is no authentication required, the network connects without a prompt to enter any log-on credentials. Any wireless device with the correct network name (SSID) is able to associate with other devices in the network.

To create a profile for a wireless network connection with no encryption:

1.Click Profiles on the Intel PROSet/Wireless main window.

2.On the Profile page, click Add to open the Create Wireless Profile General Settings.

3.Profile Name: Enter a descriptive profile name.

4.Wireless Network Name (SSID): Enter the network identifier.

5.Operating Mode: Click Network (Infrastructure)

6.Click Next.

7.Click Enterprise Security to open the Security Settings.

8.Network Authentication: Open (Selected).

Open authentication allows a wireless device access to the network without 802.11 authentication. If no encryption is enabled on the network, any wireless device with the correct network name (SSID) can associate with an access point and gain access to the network.

9.Data Encryption: None is the default.

10.Click OK. The profile is added to the Profiles list and connects to the wireless network .

Set up a Client with Shared Network Authentication

When Shared Key authentication is used, each wireless station is assumed to have received a secret shared key over a secure channel that is independent from the 802.11 wireless network communications channel. Shared key authentication requires that the client configure a static WEP or CKIP key. The client access is granted only if it passes a challenge-based authentication. CKIP provides stronger data encryption than WEP, but not all operating systems and access points support it.

NOTE: While shared key would appear to be the better option for a higher level of security, a known weakness is created by the clear text transmission of the challenge string to the client. Once an invader finds the challenge string, the shared authentication key can be easily reverse engineered. Therefore, open authentication is actually, and counter intuitively, more secure. To create a profile with shared authentication:

1.Click Profiles on the Intel PROSet/Wireless main window.

2.On the Profile Page, click Add to open the Create Wireless Profile General Settings.

3.Profile Name: Enter a descriptive profile name.

4.Wireless Network Name (SSID): Enter the network identifier.

5.Operating Mode: Click Network (Infrastructure).

6.Click Next to access the Security Settings.

7.Click Enterprise Security.

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Intel 3945ABG specifications Set up a Client with Shared Network Authentication
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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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