Wireless-G Broadband Router with SpeedBooster

The Access Restrictions Tab - Internet Access

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

Internet 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 button. To view all the policies, click the Summary button. (Policies can be deleted from the Summary screen by selecting the policy or policies and clicking the Delete button. To return to the Internet Access tab, click the Close button.)

Status. Policies are disabled by default. To enable a policy, select the policy number from the drop-down menu, and click the radio button beside Enable.

You can create two kinds of policies, one kind to manage Internet access and another kind to manage inbound traffic.

To create an Internet Access policy:

1.Select a number from the Internet Access Policy drop-down menu.

2.To enable this policy, click the radio button beside Enable.

3.Enter a Policy Name in the field provided.

4.Click the Edit List button to select which PCs will be affected by the policy. The List of PCs screen will appear. You can select a PC by MAC Address or IP Address. You can also enter a range of IP Addresses if you want this policy to affect a group of PCs. After making your changes, click the Save Settings button to apply your changes or Cancel Changes to cancel your changes. Then click the Close button.

5.Click the appropriate option, Deny or Allow, depending on whether you want to block or allow Internet access for the PCs you listed on the List of PCs screen.

6.Decide which days and what times you want this policy to be enforced. Select the individual days during which the policy will be in effect, or select Everyday. Then enter a range of hours and minutes during which the policy will be in effect, or select 24 Hours.

Chapter 6: Configuring the Wireless-G Broadband Router

Figure 6-26: Access Restrictions Tab - Internet Access

Figure 6-27: Internet Policy Summary

Figure 6-28: List of PCs

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The Access Restrictions Tab - Internet Access

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Linksys WRT54GS manual Access Restrictions Tab Internet Access, To create an Internet Access policy

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.