Wireless-G Notebook Adapter

6.The Wireless Security screen will appear. Select WEP, WPA-PSK, WPA Radius, or Radius for the Encryption Method. WEP stands for Wired Equivalent Privacy, WPA-PSK stands for Wi-Fi Protected Access Pre-Shared Key, which is a security standard stronger than WEP encryption, and RADIUS stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service. If you don’t want to use encryption, select Disabled. Then, click Next to continue or Back to return to the previous screen.

WEP

Security - To use WEP encryption, select 64-bits or 128-bit characters from the drop-down menu, and enter a passphrase or key.

Passphrase - Instead of manually entering a WEP key, you can enter a passphrase in the Passphrase field, so a WEP key is automatically generated. It is case-sensitive and should not be longer than 16 alphanumeric characters. This passphrase must match the passphrase of your other wireless network devices and is compatible with Linksys wireless products only. (If you have any non-Linksys wireless products, enter the WEP key manually on those products.)

Transmit Key - The default transmit key number is 1. If your network’s access point or wireless router uses transmit key number 2, 3, or 4, select the appropriate number from the Transmit Key drop-down box.

Key 1- The WEP key you enter must match the WEP key of your wireless network. If you are using 64-bit WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exactly 10 hexadecimal characters. If you are using 128-bit WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exactly 26 hexadecimal characters. Valid hexadecimal characters are “0” to “9” and “A” to “F”.

Authentication -The default is set to Auto, where it auto-detects for Shared Key or Open system. Shared Key is when both the sender and the recipient share a WEP key for authentication. Open key is when the sender and the recipient do not share a WEP key for authentication. All points on your network must use the same authentication type.

Click Help for more information about this screen and these settings. Click Next to continue, or Cancel to return to the Profiles screen.

Figure 6-13: Wireless Security for New Profile

passphrase: used much like a password, a passphrase simplifies the WEP encryption process by automatically generating the WEP encryption keys for Linksys products

Figure 6-14: WEP Setting for New Profile

Chapter 6: Using the Wireless Network Monitor

21

Creating a New Profile

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Linksys WPC54G manual Wireless Security for New Profile
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WPC54G specifications

The Linksys WPC54G is a wireless network adapter specifically designed for laptops and portable devices, enabling users to connect to wireless networks seamlessly. As a member of the Linksys family, the WPC54G provides robust functionality paired with ease of use, making it a popular choice for home and office environments.

One of the standout features of the WPC54G is its support for the IEEE 802.11g standard, which allows for wireless data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This technology provides a significant upgrade over older standards, enabling users to enjoy faster internet speeds and smoother streaming experiences. The WPC54G is also backward compatible with the 802.11b standard, ensuring it can connect to a wide range of wireless networks.

The device employs a PCI card form factor, which makes it easy to install in most laptops. Compatibility with a range of operating systems, including Windows and Linux, enhances its versatility. The card offers a reliable connection through its use of advanced wireless technologies such as the use of Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology, improving signal strength and stability. This allows the WPC54G to deliver high-speed connections even at greater distances from the access point.

Equipped with WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption protocols, the Linksys WPC54G prioritizes security, giving users peace of mind when accessing unsecured networks. This feature is especially important in today’s digital landscape, where data privacy and security are paramount.

Another significant characteristic of the WPC54G is its ease of setup. The included utility allows users to manage their connections and configure settings effortlessly, making it accessible even to those who are not technically savvy. The card also features a Linksys Easy Setup Assistant, guiding users through the installation process step by step.

In terms of physical attributes, the WPC54G is compact and designed to fit snugly into PC Card slots, ensuring portability without compromising performance. Overall, the Linksys WPC54G wireless network adapter remains a reliable choice for users seeking speed, security, and ease of use in their wireless connectivity solutions, solidifying its place in the market as a dependable networking device.
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