Broadband Router

Website Hit Rate. This feature allows you to view the frequency at which each of your network’s users are viewing their ten most favorite websites. You can also block these sites, if you wish.

Application Usage. This feature allows you to view which applications, according to user, are taking up the most bandwidth on your network and block those sites if you wish.

Performance Optimization. This feature allows you to list the network applications most often used on your network, according to user, and set the priority at which it is run.

Block List. This feature allows you to find out which websites or applications are blocked for each of your users, and unblock them if you wish.

Advanced Setup Tab

DMZ Host. The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) Host feature allows one local user to be exposed to the Internet, not protected by the Router’s firewall, to use a special-purpose service such as Internet gaming or video conferencing.

Forwarding. Port forwarding can be used to set up public services on your network. You may use this function to establish a Web server or FTP server via an IP Gateway.

UPnP. UPnP forwarding can be used to set up public services on your network.

DDNS. DDNS (Dynamic DNS) service allows you to assign a fixed domain name to a dynamic Internet IP address. This allows you to host your own Web, FTP or other type of TCP/IP server in your LAN.

Advanced Routing. The Router's dynamic routing feature can be used to automatically adjust to physical changes in the network's layout. The static routing feature allows multiple routers to operate on one network.

VPN Pass Through. This tab allows you to enable or disable IPSec Pass Through, PPTP Pass Through, and L2TP Pass Through.

Remote Management. This allows you to manage the Router through a remote location over the Internet.

System Management. This screen includes tools to help troubleshoot network problems, reset the Router to factory default settings, upgrade the Router’s firmware, and store and retrieve configuration files.

DMZ: removes the Router's firewall protection from one PC, allowing it to be "seen" from the Internet.

gateway: device that interconnects networks with different, incompatible communications protocols.

DDNS: allows the hosting of a website, FTP server, or e-mail server with a fixed domain name (e.g., www.xyz.com) and a dynamic IP address.

domain: a specific name for a network of computers.

IPSec (Internet Protocol Security): a VPN protocol used to implement secure exchange of packets at the IP layer.

PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol): a VPN protocol that allows the Point to Point Protocol (PPP) to be tunneled through an IP network. This protocol is also used as a type of broadband connection in Europe.

upgrade: to replace existing software or firmware with a newer version.

Log Tab

System Log. The System Log displays Syslog, E-mail and Log Settings.

System Statistics. This tab displays the system statistics.

Chapter 5: Setting Up and Configuring the Broadband Router

11

Overview

Page 17
Image 17
Linksys RT042 manual Advanced Setup Tab, Domain a specific name for a network of computers

RT042 specifications

The Linksys RT042 is a dual-band wireless router designed to deliver robust performance and extensive coverage for home and small office networks. As a product from Linksys, a leader in networking solutions, the RT042 stands out with its advanced features and technologies that cater to users' varying connectivity needs.

One of the main highlights of the Linksys RT042 is its dual-band capability. Operating on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, this router provides flexibility and minimizes interference, allowing users to choose the most suitable band for their devices. The 5GHz band is particularly useful for bandwidth-intensive applications such as gaming and HD video streaming, while the 2.4GHz band offers greater range for everyday activities like browsing and email.

The RT042 supports the latest Wi-Fi standards, including 802.11ac, which enhances overall speed and efficiency. Users can experience lightning-fast wireless speeds, making it an ideal choice for households with multiple devices connected simultaneously. The router also employs Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology, which uses multiple antennas to improve signal quality and data throughput, ensuring a stable connection even in crowded environments.

Another notable feature is its four Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for wired connections to devices such as gaming consoles and desktop computers. These ports provide faster and more reliable connections compared to standard Ethernet. Additionally, the RT042 includes a USB port, enabling users to connect external storage devices or printers for easy sharing across the network.

Security is a top priority for the Linksys RT042, which comes equipped with advanced WPA2 encryption. This ensures that user data is protected from unauthorized access. Furthermore, the router includes features such as a firewall and VPN support, providing an added layer of security for sensitive information.

The RT042 is also designed with user-friendliness in mind. It features an intuitive web interface for easy setup and management, making it accessible even for those with limited technical knowledge. The router can be easily configured through a mobile app, allowing users to monitor their network from anywhere.

In summary, the Linksys RT042 is a versatile and powerful dual-band wireless router that combines advanced technology, robust security features, and user-friendly design. Whether for streaming, gaming, or everyday browsing, this router is an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their internet experience.