Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster

SSID. There are several things to keep in mind about the SSID:

1.Disable Broadcast

2.Make it unique

3.Change it often

Most wireless networking devices will give you the option of broadcasting the SSID. While this option may be more convenient, it allows anyone to log into your wireless network. This includes hackers. So, don’t broadcast the SSID.

Wireless networking products come with a default SSID set by the factory. (The Linksys default SSID is “linksys”.) Hackers know these defaults and can check these against your network. Change your SSID to something unique and not something related to your company or the networking products you use.

Change your SSID regularly so that any hackers who have gained access to your wireless network will have to start from the beginning in trying to break in.

MAC Addresses. Enable MAC Address filtering. MAC Address filtering will allow you to provide access to only those wireless nodes with certain MAC Addresses. This makes it harder for a hacker to access your network with a random MAC Address.

WEP Encryption. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is often looked upon as a cure-all for wireless security concerns. This is overstating WEP’s ability. Again, this can only provide enough security to make a hacker’s job more difficult.

There are several ways that WEP can be maximized:

1.Use the highest level of encryption possible

2.Use “Shared Key” authentication

3.Change your WEP key regularly

WPA. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is the newest and best available standard in Wi-Fi security. WPA2 is the newer version of Wi-Fi Protected Access with stronger encryption than WPA. WPA gives you a choice of two encryption methods: TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol), which utilizes a stronger encryption method and incorporates Message Integrity Code (MIC) to provide protection against hackers, and AES (Advanced Encryption System), which utilizes a symmetric 128-Bit block data encryption.

Appendix B: Wireless Security

Important: Always remember that each device in your wireless network MUST use the same encryption method and encryption key or your wireless network will not function properly.

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Security Threats Facing Wireless Networks

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Linksys WTR54GS manual Appendix B Wireless Security
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WTR54GS specifications

The Linksys WTR54GS is a robust wireless router that combines performance and ease of use for home and small office networks. With its sleek design and advanced technology, it caters to users seeking reliable connectivity for multiple devices. One of its standout features is the Wireless-G technology, which provides a maximum data transfer rate of up to 54 Mbps. This makes it ideal for streaming videos, online gaming, and facilitating smooth internet browsing.

The WTR54GS supports 802.11g standards, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. It also supports backward compatibility with 802.11b devices, which is essential for users with older equipment. Enhanced by SpeedBooster technology, the WTR54GS improves performance by increasing the range and speed of the wireless connection, which is particularly beneficial in larger homes or offices where signal strength might be a concern.

Security is a top priority for the Linksys WTR54GS, offering robust features such as WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption protocols. This ensures that users can maintain a secure connection while protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access. Additionally, the router features a built-in firewall that helps defend against potential intrusions, providing an added layer of security for the network.

Equipped with four Ethernet ports, the WTR54GS enables users to connect wired devices for more stable and faster connections. This is particularly useful for activities that require high bandwidth, such as video conferencing or online gaming. The router also includes an intuitive web-based setup interface, allowing users to configure and manage their network settings effortlessly.

Another notable characteristic of the Linksys WTR54GS is its support for Quality of Service (QoS) features, which prioritize bandwidth for important applications, ensuring that critical tasks receive the necessary resources for optimal performance. This is particularly useful for households with multiple users and devices competing for bandwidth.

Overall, the Linksys WTR54GS is a versatile and reliable router that provides excellent performance for various networking needs. With its combination of speed, security, and user-friendly features, it remains a popular choice for those looking to enhance their wireless networking experience.
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