Wireless-N ADSL2+ Gateway

The Wireless Tab

The Basic Wireless Settings Tab

This screen allows you to choose your wireless network mode and wireless security.

Wireless Network

Network Mode. If you have 802.11g and 802.11b devices in your network, then keep the default setting, Mixed. If you have only Wireless-G devices, select Wireless-G Only. If you have only Wireless-B devices, select Wireless-B Only. If you have only Wireless-N devices, select Wireless-N Only. If you want to disable wireless networking, select Disable.

Network Name (SSID). Enter the name for your wireless network into the field. The SSID is the network name shared among all devices in a wireless network. It must be identical for all devices in the wireless network. It is case-sensitive and must not exceed 32 alphanumeric characters, which may be any keyboard character.

Linksys recommends that you change the default SSID (linksys) to a unique name of your choice.

Radio Band. For best performance in a network using Wireless-N, Wireless-G and Wireless-B devices, keep the default, Wide - 40MHz Channel. For Wireless-G and Wireless-B networking only, select Standard - 20MHz Channel.

Wide Channel. If you selected Wide - 40MHz Channel for the Radio Band setting, then this setting will be available for your primary Wireless-N channel. Select any channel from the drop-down menu.

Standard Channel. Select the channel for Wireless-N, Wireless-G, and Wireless-B networking. If you selected Wide – 40MHz Channel for the Radio Band setting, then the Standard Channel will be a secondary channel for Wireless-N. If you are not sure which channel to select, do not make any changes.

Wireless SSID Broadcast. When wireless computers or clients survey the local area for wireless networks to associate with, they will detect the SSID broadcast by the Gateway. To broadcast the Gateway's SSID, keep the default setting, Enable. If you do not want to broadcast the Gateway's SSID, then select Disable.

When finished making your changes on this tab, click the Save Settings button to save these changes, or click the Cancel Changes button to undo your changes. Click Help for more information.

Figure 5-13: Basic Wireless Settings

NOTE: If you select Wide - 40MHz Channel for the Radio Band setting, then Wireless-N can use two channels: a primary one (Wide Channel) and a secondary one (Standard Channel). This will enhance Wireless-N performance.

Chapter 5: Configuring the Wireless-N ADSL2+ Gateway

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The Wireless Tab

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Linksys WAG300N manual Wireless Tab, Basic Wireless Settings Tab, Wireless Network

WAG300N specifications

The Linksys WAG300N is a highly versatile wireless modem router, designed to meet the needs of both home and small office environments. This device combines multiple functionalities, featuring a Wireless-N access point, a 4-port Ethernet switch, and an integrated DSL modem. Its compatibility with ADSL2+ standards allows for seamless internet connectivity, ensuring that users can experience high-speed internet up to 24 Mbps, depending on their DSL connection.

One of the defining characteristics of the WAG300N is its support for the IEEE 802.11n wireless standard, which provides significantly improved data transfer rates over its predecessors. This technology allows for speeds of up to 300 Mbps, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications such as streaming high-definition videos, online gaming, and large file downloads. The router's MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology enhances wireless coverage, enabling connections at greater distances and through obstacles like walls.

Security is a key concern for Linksys, and the WAG300N addresses this with a variety of robust features. It supports WPA, WPA2, and WEP encryption for secure wireless connection and includes a built-in firewall to protect the network from unwanted intrusions. Parental controls are also available, allowing users to manage internet access, ensuring a safer online environment for children.

The Linksys WAG300N is easy to set up and manage thanks to its web-based interface. Users can quickly configure the device using the installation CD or through a straightforward online setup wizard. Furthermore, firmware updates can be performed easily, allowing users to keep their devices secure and up to date with the latest features.

In terms of design, the WAG300N boasts a sleek black casing with LED indicators for power, internet connectivity, and wireless activity, enabling users to monitor device status at a glance. Its compact size ensures it does not occupy excessive space, making it an attractive addition to any office or home environment.

Overall, the Linksys WAG300N is a powerful networking device that offers great performance, advanced security features, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their internet connectivity experience. Whether for casual browsing or resource-intensive tasks, the WAG300N stands out with its blend of speed, reliability, and versatility.