Wireless-G Broadband Router with SpeedBooster

•HeartBeat Signal. HeartBeat Signal (HBS) is a service that applies to connections in Australia only.

User Name and Password. Enter the User Name and Password provided by your ISP.

Heart Beat Server. This is the IP address that the Router has, when seen from the Internet. Your ISP will provide you with the IP Address you need to specify here.

Connect on Demand: Max Idle Time. You can configure the Router to cut the Internet connection after it has been inactive for a specified period of time (Max Idle Time). If your Internet connection has been terminated due to inactivity, Connect on Demand enables the Router to automatically re-establish your connection as soon as you attempt to access the Internet again. If you wish to activate Connect on Demand, click the radio button. In the Max Idle Time field, enter the number of minutes you want to have elapsed before your Internet connection terminates.

Keep Alive Option: Redial Period. If you select this option, the Router will periodically check your Internet connection. If you are disconnected, then the Router will automatically re-establish your connection. To use this option, click the radio button next to Keep Alive. In the Redial Period field, you specify how often you want the Router to check the Internet connection. The default Redial Period is 30 seconds.

Optional Settings

Some of these settings may be required by your ISP. Verify with your ISP before making any changes.

Router Name. In this field, you can type a name of up to 39 characters to represent the Router.

Host Name/Domain Name. These fields allow you to supply a host and domain name for the Router. Some ISPs, usually cable ISPs, require these names as identification. You may have to check with your ISP to see if your broadband Internet service has been configured with a host and domain name. In most cases, leaving these fields blank will work.

MTU. MTU is the Maximum Transmission Unit. It specifies the largest packet size permitted for Internet transmission. The default setting, Manual, allows you to enter the largest packet size that will be transmitted. The recommended size, entered in the Size field, is 1492. You should leave this value in the 1200 to 1500 range. To have the Router select the best MTU for your Internet connection, select Auto.

Network Setup

The Network Setup section changes the settings on the network connected to the Router’s Ethernet ports. Wireless Setup is performed through the Wireless tab.

Chapter 6: Configuring the Wireless-G Broadband Router

Figure 6-7: HeartBeat Signal Connection Type

Figure 6-8: Optional Settings

packet: a funit of data sent over a network

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The Setup Tab - Basic Setup

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Linksys WRT54GS manual Optional Settings, Packet a funit of data sent over a network
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WRT54GS specifications

The Linksys WRT54GS is a well-regarded wireless router that has earned its place in the annals of networking history due to its robust features and stellar performance. Initially released in the early 2000s, this model has become a favorite among both home and small business users, thanks to its reliability and ease of use.

One of the standout features of the WRT54GS is its support for the 802.11g wireless standard, which allows for data transfer rates up to 54 Mbps. This speed is sufficient for most everyday tasks such as browsing the web, streaming music, and even watching videos, making it a versatile choice for households with multiple devices. The router also includes backward compatibility with the older 802.11b standard, ensuring that users with older devices can still connect without issue.

The WRT54GS is equipped with a 4-port Ethernet switch, allowing for wired connections to additional devices. This is particularly advantageous for users who require stable, high-speed connections for gaming consoles or desktop computers. The Ethernet ports operate at speeds of up to 100 Mbps, further enhancing the overall network performance.

Security is a critical aspect of any networking device, and the WRT54GS does not disappoint. It supports various encryption protocols, including WEP, WPA, and WPA2, offering multiple layers of security to protect user data. The router also features a built-in firewall, which adds an additional layer of defense against external threats.

Another key characteristic of the WRT54GS is its user-friendly web-based interface, which simplifies the process of setting up and managing the network. Users can easily configure settings, set up parental controls, and manage connected devices without requiring advanced technical skills.

Additionally, the WRT54GS is renowned for its open-source firmware compatibility, enabling tech-savvy users to enhance its functionality with custom firmware options like DD-WRT or Tomato. These alternatives can unlock additional features such as improved bandwidth management, advanced VPN support, and enhanced wireless performance.

In summary, the Linksys WRT54GS is a reliable and versatile router with features that cater to a wide range of users. Its combination of robust wireless performance, extensive security options, and user-friendly configuration makes it an ideal choice for many. While more advanced options are available today, the WRT54GS remains a classic model that paved the way for future networking devices.
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