Wireless-G Broadband Router with SpeedBooster

The Setup Tab - Advanced Routing

This tab is used to set up the Router’s advanced functions. Operating Mode allows you to select the type(s) of advanced functions you use. Dynamic Routing will automatically adjust how packets travel on your network. Static Routing sets up a fixed route to another network destination.

Operating Mode. Select the mode in which this Router will function. If this Router is hosting your network’s connection to the Internet, select Gateway. If another Router exists on your network, select Router. When Router is chosen, Dynamic Routing will be enabled.

Dynamic Routing. This feature enables the Router to automatically adjust to physical changes in the network’s layout and exchange routing tables with the other router(s). The Router determines the network packets’ route based on the fewest number of hops between the source and the destination. This feature is Disabled by default. From the drop-down menu, you can also select LAN & Wireless, which performs dynamic routing over your Ethernet and wireless networks. You can also select WAN, which performs dynamic routing with data coming from the Internet. Finally, selecting Both enables dynamic routing for both networks, as well as data from the Internet.

Static Routing. To set up a static route between the Router and another network, select a number from the Static Routing drop-down list. (A static route is a pre-determined pathway that network information must travel to reach a specific host or network.) Enter the information described below to set up a new static route. (Click the Delete This Entry button to delete a static route.)

Enter Route Name. Enter a name for the Route here, using a maximum of 25 alphanumeric characters.

Destination LAN IP. The Destination LAN IP is the address of the remote network or host to which you want to assign a static route.

Subnet Mask. The Subnet Mask determines which portion of a Destination LAN IP address is the network portion, and which portion is the host portion.

Default Gateway. This is the IP address of the gateway device that allows for contact between the Router and the remote network or host.

Interface. This interface tells you whether the Destination IP Address is on the LAN & Wireless (Ethernet and wireless networks), the WAN (Internet), or Loopback (a dummy network in which one PC acts like a network— necessary for certain software programs).

Click the Show Routing Table button to view the Static Routes you’ve already set up.

Change these settings as described here and click the Save Settings button to apply your changes or Cancel Changes to cancel your changes.

Figure 6-14: Setup Tab - Advanced Routing (Gateway)

Figure 6-15: Setup Tab - Advanced Routing (Router)

default gateway: a device that forwards Internet traffic from your local area network

Chapter 6: Configuring the Wireless-G Broadband Router

40

The Setup Tab - Advanced Routing

Page 47 Page 49
Page 48
Image 48
Linksys WRT54GS manual Setup Tab Advanced Routing Gateway
Page 47 Page 49

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.
Top Page Image Contents