Wireless-G PCI Adapter

3.If you chose Infrastructure Mode, go to Step 4 now. If you chose Ad-Hoc Mode, the Ad-Hoc Mode Settings screen will appear.

Select the correct Channel for your wireless network. The channel you choose should match the channel set on the other devices in your wireless network. If you are unsure about which channel to use, keep the default setting.

Then, select the Network Mode in which your wireless network will operate. In Mixed Mode, Wireless-B and Wireless-G devices can both operate on the network, though at a slower speed. In G-Only Mode, no Wireless- B devices can operate in the network.

Click Next to continue or click Back to change any settings.

Figure 4-30: Ad-Hoc Mode Settings

4.The Wireless Security screen will appear. This step will configure wireless security.

If your wireless network doesn’t use wireless security, select Disabled and then click the Next button to continue. Proceed to Step 6.

Select WEP, WPA-Personal, PSK2, WPA Enterprise, Radius, or LEAP for the Encryption Method. WEP stands for Wired Equivalent Privacy, WPA stands for Wi-Fi Protected Access, which is a security standard stronger than WEP encryption, PSK2 stands for Pre-Shared Key 2, which is a security standard stronger than WPA-Personal, RADIUS stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service, and LEAP stands for Lightweight Extensible Authentication Protocol. If you don’t want to use encryption, select Disabled.

Figure 4-31: Wireless Security

Chapter 4: Using the Wireless Network Monitor

37

Creating a New Profile

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Linksys WMP54G manual Wireless Security

WMP54G specifications

The Linksys WMP54G is a high-performance wireless PCI adapter that was designed to bring reliable connectivity to desktop computers. Launched as part of Linksys' range of networking products, the WMP54G quickly gained popularity among users seeking a dependable solution for wireless networking in their homes or small offices.

One of the standout features of the WMP54G is its compliance with the 802.11g wireless standard. This technology allows for data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps, making it suitable for tasks such as streaming audio and video, online gaming, and file sharing. The adapter is also backward compatible with the 802.11b standard, enabling it to work seamlessly with older wireless devices, ensuring users are not left behind as they upgrade their equipment.

The WMP54G is equipped with a powerful external antenna that enhances its range and signal strength. This allows users to maintain a strong wireless connection even when they are far from the router, making it ideal for larger homes or office spaces. It also supports WEP, WPA, and WPA2 security protocols, providing users with multiple layers of security to protect their data and network from unauthorized access.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the WMP54G is its ease of installation and use. The adapter is provided with a user-friendly setup wizard that guides users through the configuration process, making it accessible even for those who may not be tech-savvy. Once installed, the WMP54G offers robust performance, with consistent connections and minimal interference.

The adapter's design is also compact and lightweight, making it a suitable option for machines with limited internal space. Its PCI form factor allows for easy integration into most desktop PCs. Additionally, it comes with status LEDs that indicate when the device is powered on, and when it is connected to a wireless network, providing users with instant feedback on their connection status.

In summary, the Linksys WMP54G is a versatile and reliable wireless adapter that has cemented its place in the networking landscape. With its familiarity with various standards, strong security features, and user-friendly installation, it remains a recommended choice for users looking to enhance their wireless connectivity at home or in the office.