Broadband Router

Advanced Setup Tab - System Management

The System Management screen includes several tools to help troubleshoot network problems, such as looking up DNS names, ping tests, resetting the Router to factory default settings, upgrading the Router’s firmware, and storing and retrieving configuration files.

Diagnostics

DNS Name Lookup

The Internet has a service called the Domain Name Service (DNS), which allows users to enter an easily remembered host name, such as www.RT042.com, instead of numerical TCP/IP addresses to access Internet resources. The Router has a DNS lookup tool that will return the numerical TCP/IP address of a host name.

Enter the host name to look up in the Look up the name field and click the Go button. Do not add the prefix http://, otherwise the result will be Address Resolving Failed. The Router will then query the DNS server and display the result in the Diagnostics section of the screen.

NOTE: The IP address of the DNS server must be entered in the Network

Settings page for the DNS Name Lookup feature to function.

Ping

The Ping test bounces a packet off an IP Address across the Internet, which returns to the sender. This test shows if the Router is able to contact a remote host. If users on the LAN are having problems accessing services on the Internet, try pinging the DNS server, or another IP Address at the ISP’s location. If this test is successful, try pinging addresses outside the ISP. This will show if the problem lies with the ISP’s connection.

Enter the IP address you wish to pinged and click the Go button. The test will take a few seconds to complete. Once completed, a message showing the results will be displayed in the Diagnostics section of the screen. The results include Packets transmitted / received / loss and Round Trip Time (Minimum, Maximum, and Average).

NOTE: Ping tests require an IP address. The Router’s DNS Name

Lookup tool may be used to find the IP address of a host.

Chapter 5: Setting Up and Configuring the Broadband Router

Figure 5-28: Advanced Setup Tab - System Management

DNS (Domain Name Server): the IP address of your ISP's server, which translates the names of websites into IP addresses.

ping: an Internet utility used to determine whether a particular IP address is online.

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Advanced Setup Tab - System Management

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Linksys RT042 manual Advanced Setup Tab System Management, Diagnostics

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.