Instant Wireless™ Series

Appendix B: Setting Up the TCP/IP Protocol

Setting Up TCP/IP in Windows

Before a computer can communicate with the Access Point, it must be config- ured with the TCP/IP protocol. If you know how to set up TCP/IP on your com- puters, do so now. Otherwise, use the guidelines below to help get TCP/IP installed on all of the computers that need to communicate with the Access Point. If you are unable to successfully install TCP/IP on one or more comput- ers after following the directions, contact the manufacturer of your computers' network operating system for further assistance. Check with your network administrator for your TCP/IP settings.

The directions below provide general guidelines for coming up with IP address- es and subnet masks. Check with your network administrator to see if you need to use specific IP addresses or DHCP settings.

First, each computer on the network will require an IP address, which is a series of numbers, separated by periods, identifying the PC on the network. To make things simple, it is recommended you use the following numbering scheme:

192.168.1.X

In this example, X is a unique, arbitrarily assigned number from 1 to 254. Each computer must have its own unique X number. Note: Never use 0 or 255 for X. These numbers are reserved by TCP/IP for other uses.

For example, if you have three computers, you could number them as follows:

192.168.1.17

192.168.1.44

192.168.1.126

In this case, 17, 44, and 126 are arbitrary numbers between 1 and 254.

Each computer will also require a subnet mask, which is a numerical “filter” that tells a computer what kinds of TCP/IP data packets to accept. If you’re not sure which mask to use, the following mask is recommended:

255.255.255.0

Wireless Network Access Point

The following instructions are provided as examples for reference only. For complete instructions on installing and troubleshooting TCP/IP, consult your Windows operating system documentation.

TCP/IP Setup for Windows 95, 98, and Millennium

1.Click the Start button, select Settings, and open the Control Panel. Inside the Control Panel, double-click the Network icon.

2.If the TCP/IP Protocol is listed for your network adapter, go to step five. Otherwise, click the Add button.

3.When the Component Type window appears, select Protocol and click the Add button.

4.Select Microsoft in the Manufacturers list and choose TCP/IP in the Network Protocols list. Then, click the OK button.

5.When the Network window reappears, click TCP/IP and then click the Properties button.

6.Select Specify an IP Address.

7.Enter an IP Address for the computer, along with a Subnet Mask. Click the OK button. If you do not have these values, consult your network adminis- trator.

8.When the Network window reappears, click the OK button. Restart your machine. TCP/IP has now been successfully installed.

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Linksys WAP11 v2.2 manual Setting Up TCP/IP in Windows, TCP/IP Setup for Windows 95, 98, and Millennium

WAP11 v2.2 specifications

The Linksys WAP11 v2.2 is a wireless access point designed for small to medium-sized business and home users looking to expand their network capabilities. This device offers an appealing blend of features and technologies that cater to both ease of use and efficiency.

One of the primary features of the WAP11 v2.2 is its compatibility with the IEEE 802.11b wireless networking standard. Operating in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, this access point can deliver data rates of up to 11 Mbps under optimal conditions. This makes it well-suited for basic internet browsing, file sharing, and other low to moderate bandwidth applications.

A standout characteristic of the WAP11 v2.2 is its versatility in deployment. It can be easily configured to function in multiple modes, including access point, wireless bridging, or as a wireless repeater. This flexibility allows users to tailor the device to their specific networking needs, whether they are expanding an existing wireless network or creating a new one altogether.

The WAP11 v2.2 also includes robust security features to protect network data. It supports WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) encryption, which, while now considered less secure than modern protocols, was widely used during its time to provide a basic level of wireless security. Additionally, the access point offers MAC address filtering, allowing network administrators to whitelist or blacklist specific devices from accessing the network.

Installation and configuration of the WAP11 v2.2 is facilitated by a user-friendly web interface, making it accessible to users of all technical skill levels. The device can be set up quickly through a standard web browser, allowing users to easily manage settings like SSID, security options, and IP addressing.

In terms of physical characteristics, the WAP11 v2.2 features a compact design that allows for flexible placement in various environments. It includes a reset button for easy troubleshooting and recovery from erroneous settings, ensuring minimal downtime.

Overall, the Linksys WAP11 v2.2 is a solid choice for users looking to enhance their wireless network. Its combination of multiple operating modes, basic security features, and ease of use makes it a practical option for home offices or small business applications. Despite being an older model, it laid the groundwork for future advancements in wireless networking, reflecting the evolution of connectivity solutions over time.