Linksys EA-Series

d.Network mode—Your choice depends upon the clients that will connect to your network. If all of your devices are Wireless-N capable, you can select Wireless-N Only for either or both bands.

On the 2.4 GHz band, you can select:

Mixed

Wireless-N Only

Wireless-G Only

On the 5 GHz band, you can select:

Mixed (default), which accepts connections from 802.11a or 802.11n clients

Wireless-N Only (802.11n only)

Wireless-AC Only

e.Security mode—You can set up different security options for the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz networks. If the security mode you select requires a passphrase, a Passphrase field appears, and you must enter a passphrase. You can select:

None (no security)

WEP

WPA Personal

WPA Enterprise

WPA2 Personal

WPA2 Enterprise

WPA2/WPA Mixed Personal

WPA2/WPA Mixed Enterprise

TIP

Wireless-N networks should use the WP2-Personalsecurity mode for best performance.

f.Channel width—We recommend that you keep the default (Auto) setting for each band. In Auto mode, the router and the network clients automatically switch to the 40 MHz mode if:

Your wireless clients support the 40 MHz mode (sometimes called Bonded mode) in which two 20 MHz channels are bonded together for better performance.

There is no adjacent interference.

Setting Up: Advanced

With more available channels and less chance of interference on the 5 GHz band, you have the option to force the 40 MHz mode.

On the 2.4 GHz band, you can select:

Auto (20 MHz or 40 Mhz)

20 MHz Only

On the 5 GHz band, you can select:

Auto (automatically selects from the options below)

20 MHz Only

40 MHz Only

80 MHz Only

g. Channel—Choose the operating channel for each band. Your router will automatically select the channel with the least amount of interference if you leave the default Auto setting. We recommend keeping the default settings for both bands.

4.To save your changes, click OK.

How to control access to your network

Why would I need to control access to my wireless network? By default, Setup enables industry-standardWPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) security using WPA2/WPA mixed mode. If you set up your wireless network manually and have not enabled wireless security, your wireless network will be an “open” network that almost anyone nearby with a Wi-Fi-enabled device could access.

What is MAC filtering? If you choose not to use the built-in security features of your router, you can still control access to your wireless network using MAC filtering. Every network device has a unique, 12-digit MAC (Media Access Control) address. Using MAC filtering, you can allow only known MAC addresses (known devices) onto your network. You can also exclude specific MAC addresses or deny them access to your wireless network.

TIP

MAC filtering is not strong security. The best way to secure your network is to use the router’s WPA2 security setting.

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Linksys EA6900 manual How to control access to your network, Mixed Wireless-N Only Wireless-G Only

EA6900 specifications

The Linksys EA6900 is a dual-band wireless router that stands out for its impressive performance and advanced features tailored to meet the demands of modern households. Designed to deliver reliable connectivity for multiple devices simultaneously, it supports the latest Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) technology, enabling faster speeds and improved coverage compared to older routers.

One of the main features of the EA6900 is its dual-band capability, which operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. This allows users to connect to the less congested 5 GHz band for activities that require higher bandwidth, such as streaming HD video or online gaming, while still having the 2.4 GHz band available for basic activities like browsing and email.

The router provides a maximum throughput of up to 1900 Mbps, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications. The beamforming technology further enhances the signal strength and reliability by focusing the wireless signal directly toward connected devices rather than broadcasting it in all directions. This results in better performance and coverage throughout the home, eliminating dead zones and improving connectivity in challenging locations.

The Linksys EA6900 also features four Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing wired connections for devices such as gaming consoles, PCs, and smart TVs, which benefit from stable and high-speed connections. Additionally, it comes equipped with a USB 3.0 port for sharing files and media across the network, allowing users to connect external storage devices for easy access to data.

Another key characteristic of the EA6900 is its user-friendly interface, facilitated by the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi app. This application allows users to manage their network settings remotely, including monitoring connected devices, setting parental controls, and prioritizing bandwidth for specific applications or devices.

Security is a top priority for the Linksys EA6900, featuring WPA2 encryption and a built-in firewall to protect the network from unauthorized access and threats. The router also supports IPv6, ensuring compatibility with the latest internet protocols.

In summary, the Linksys EA6900 is a robust and versatile router that combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for households with multiple devices requiring reliable connectivity. With its dual-band capability, impressive speed, and enhanced security measures, it provides users with the performance they need for today’s connected lifestyle.