Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

The Security Tab - VPN Passthrough

Use the settings on this tab to allow VPN tunnels using IPSec, L2TP, or PPTP protocols to pass through the Router’s firewall.

VPN Passthrough

IPSec Passthrough. Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) is a suite of protocols used to implement secure exchange of packets at the IP layer. IPSec Pass-Through is enabled by default. To disable IPSec Passthrough, select Disabled.

L2TP Passthrough. Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol is the method used to enable Point-to-Point sessions via the Internet on the Layer 2 level. L2TP Pass-Through is enabled by default. To disable L2TP Passthrough, select Disabled.

PPTP Passthrough. Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) allows the Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) to be tunneled through an IP network. PPTP Pass-Through is enabled by default. To disable PPTP Passthrough, select Disabled.

Change these settings as described here and click the Save Settings button to apply your changes or Cancel Changes to cancel your changes. Help information is shown on the right-hand side of the screen.

The Access Restrictions Tab - Internet Access Policy

The Internet Access Policy screen allows you to block or allow specific kinds of Internet usage and traffic, such as Internet access, designated applications, websites, and inbound traffic during specific days and times.

Internet Access Policy

Access Policy. Access can be managed by a policy. Use the settings on this screen to establish an access policy (after the Save Settings button is clicked). Selecting a policy from the drop-down menu will display that policy’s settings. To delete a policy, select that policy’s number and click the Delete This Policy button. To view all the policies, click the Summary button.

On the Summary screen, the policies are listed with the following information: No., Policy Name, Access, Days, Time, and status (Enabled). You can change the type of access, days, and times of a policy. To activate a policy, click the Enabled checkbox. To delete a policy, click its Delete button. Click the Save Settings button to save your changes, or click the Cancel Changes button to cancel your changes. To return to the Internet Access Policy tab, click the Close button. To view the list of PCs for a specific policy, click the PCs List button.

Chapter 5: Configuring the Compact Wireless-G Broadband Router

Figure 5-23: Security Tab - VPN Passthrough

ipsec: a VPN protocol used to implement secure exchange of packets at the IP layer.

pptp: a VPN protocol that allows the Point to Point Protocol (PPP) to be tunneled through an IP network. This protocol is also used as a type of broadband connection in Europe.

Figure 5-24: Access Restrictions Tab - Internet

Access Policy

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The Security Tab - VPN Passthrough

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Linksys WRT54GC manual Security Tab VPN Passthrough, Access Restrictions Tab Internet Access Policy

WRT54GC specifications

The Linksys WRT54GC is a compact and versatile wireless router that has garnered attention for its impressive performance and functionality. It's part of Linksys' renowned WRT series, known for its reliability and user-friendly features, making it a popular choice for home and small office networking.

One of the main features of the WRT54GC is its support for the 802.11g wireless standard, allowing for wireless speeds of up to 54 Mbps. This makes it suitable for tasks such as web browsing, email, and streaming media, offering users a reliable connection without significant lag. Additionally, the router is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, ensuring that older equipment can still connect seamlessly.

The WRT54GC sports a compact design, making it ideal for users with limited space. Its small footprint does not compromise its performance, as it delivers strong coverage thanks to its two external antennas. This design enables users to extend their wireless signal throughout their homes or offices, reducing dead zones and enhancing connectivity.

Security is a key aspect of the WRT54GC, as it offers WPA2 encryption, providing a robust defense against unauthorized access. The router also supports MAC address filtering, which adds an extra layer of security by allowing only recognized devices to connect to the network. These features ensure that users can enjoy their wireless experience with peace of mind.

Another notable characteristic of the WRT54GC is its ease of setup and management. The device comes with a user-friendly web-based interface that simplifies the configuration process, allowing users to establish their network quickly. With features like DHCP, users can also assign IP addresses automatically, streamlining network management for both novices and advanced users alike.

The integrated four-port Ethernet switch adds to the router's versatility, allowing users to connect wired devices directly. This is particularly beneficial for devices that require a stable connection, such as gaming consoles or desktop computers.

In summary, the Linksys WRT54GC router stands out for its compact design, reliable wireless performance, strong security features, and user-friendly management options. It caters to the needs of both casual internet users and small businesses, making it a timeless choice in the landscape of consumer networking devices.