Instant Broadband Series

Step Two: Pinging for a Web Address

While the IP address returned above would work as your e-mail server address, it may not be permanent. IP Addresses change all the time. Web addresses, however, usually don’t. Because of this, you’re likely to have less problems by configuring your system with web addresses rather than IP addresses. Follow the instructions below to find the web address assigned to the IP address you just pinged.

1.At the DOS command prompt, type “ping -a 24.53.32.4”, where 24.53.32.4 is the IP address you just pinged. Information such as the fol- lowing data will be displayed.

C:\>ping -a 24.53.32.4

Pinging mail.msnv3.occa.home.com [24.53.32.4] with

32 bytes of data:

Reply from 24.53.32.4: bytes=32 time<10ms TTL=127

Reply from 24.53.32.4: bytes=32 time<10ms TTL=127

Reply from 24.53.32.4: bytes=32 time<10ms TTL=127

Reply from 24.53.32.4: bytes=32 time<10ms TTL=127

Ping statistics for 24.53.32.4:

Packets: Sent = 4, Received = 4, Lost = 0 (0% loss),

Approximate round trip times in milli-seconds: Minimum = 0ms, Maximum = 0ms, Average = 0ms

2.Write down the web address returned by the ping command. (In the example above: mail.msnv3.occa.home.com.) This web address is the web address assigned to the IP address you just pinged. While the IP address of “mail” could conceivably change, it is likely that this web address will not.

3.Replace your ISP’s abbreviated server address with this extended web address in the corresponding Internet application (web browser, e-mail application, etc.).

Once you have replaced the brief server address with the true server address, the Router should have no problem accessing the Internet through that Internet application.

EtherFast Cable/DSL Router

Installing the TCP/IP Protocol

Follow these instructions to install the TCP/IP Protocol on one of your PCs only after a network card has been successfully installed inside the PC. These instructions are for Windows 95 and Windows 98. For TCP/IP setup under Windows NT, please refer to your Windows NT manual.

1.Click the Start button. Choose Settings, then Control Panel.

2.Double-click the Network icon. Your Network window should pop up. Select the Configuration tab.

3.Click the Add button.

4.Double-click Protocol.

5.Highlight Microsoft under the list of manufactures.

6.Find and double-click TCP/IP in the list to the right (below).

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Linksys BEFSR81 manual Step Two Pinging for a Web Address, Installing the TCP/IP Protocol

BEFSR81 specifications

The Linksys BEFSR81 is a highly regarded router that stands as a staple in home networking solutions. With its robust set of features, it has catered to both casual users and technology enthusiasts alike. The BEFSR81 is primarily known for its versatile connectivity options, making it a popular choice for users looking to connect multiple devices without compromising speed or reliability.

One of the standout features of the Linksys BEFSR81 is its ability to support up to eight Ethernet ports, allowing for extensive wired connections. This is particularly beneficial for users with multiple devices that require stable internet access, such as gaming consoles, desktop computers, and smart home devices. Additionally, the router supports advanced networking features, including DHCP server capabilities and network address translation (NAT), further optimizing performance and security.

In terms of security, the BEFSR81 offers stateful packet inspection firewalls and support for Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) encryption, ensuring that users' data and privacy are well-protected. It also includes features like MAC address filtering, which allows users to create a whitelist of devices permitted to access the network, bolstering security even further.

The Linksys BEFSR81 adopts a user-friendly interface that simplifies the setup process, making it accessible for individuals with varying levels of technical expertise. Users can manage their network settings effortlessly via the web-based management interface, enabling them to configure passwords, adjust settings, and monitor network activity.

Moreover, the BEFSR81 supports Quality of Service (QoS) features that prioritize bandwidth for certain applications, ensuring that streaming services, online gaming, and video conferencing perform optimally without lag. This is particularly advantageous in households with numerous users engaging in data-intensive activities simultaneously.

Overall, the Linksys BEFSR81 remains a reliable choice for those seeking a well-rounded router that combines a feature-rich design with robust performance. Whether for home office use, casual browsing, or intensive gaming, the BEFSR81 meets the demands of modern networking needs, ensuring a seamless and secure internet experience for its users.